Claritin Nasal Spray

The active ingredient in Claritin Nasal Spray is oxymetazoline hydrochloride. Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant that works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose to reduce sinus congestion (stuffy nose).

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Claritin Nasal Spray. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Claritin Nasal Spray:

• The recommended dose of Claritin Nasal Spray is 2 to 3 sprays into each nostril up to 2 times a day as needed. Do not use more than 3 sprays in each nostril at a time. Do not use more than 2 times every 24 hours. Follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• To use Claritin Nasal Spray for the first time, shake the bottle and blow your nose. Prime the pump by spraying it a couple times. Remove the cap and hold the bottle with your thumb under the base and nozzle between two fingers. Insert the nozzle into the nostril and spray and sniff deeply at the same time. Repeat with the other nostril. Afterward, clean the nozzle and put the cap back on.
• Do not use Claritin Nasal Spray for more than 3 days. Frequent or prolonged use may cause the adverse event rebound congestion, and cause nasal congestion to worsen.

Some mild or common side effects of Claritin Nasal Spray include:

• Headache.
• Nasal discomfort and dryness.
• Sneezing.
• Nausea.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Claritin Nasal Spray. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Excessive use may damage the lining of the nose. Do not use Claritin Nasal Spray for prolonged periods of time.
• Allergic reaction. Signs include skin rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.
• Irregular or increased heart rate.
• Transient visual impairment.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Claritin Nasal Spray. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Claritin Nasal Spray, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Medical conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, and difficulty urinating.
• Tendency to have nosebleeds.
• Phaeochromocytoma.

Do not use in children under 12 years of age.

• Allergic to any ingredient in Claritin Nasal Spray.
• If you have had your pituitary gland removed through the nose.
• If you have narrow-angle glaucoma.
• If you have chronic nasal inflammation with dry nasal passages.

You will feel congestion and allergy relief within 10 minutes of using Claritin Nasal Spray, and it can last for up to 12 hours.

When Claritin Nasal Spray is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Tricyclic antidepressants

Claritin Nasal Spray is available as a 0.05% oxymetazoline nasal spray.

Other allergy medications include Claritin, which contains the oral antihistamine loratadine.

Store Claritin Nasal Spray at room temperature, out of reach of children and pets.

Bayer manufactures Claritin Nasal Spray.

Yes, there are generic versions of Claritin Nasal Spray.

You should stop using Claritin Nasal Spray when your nasal congestion symptoms improve. Do not use Claritin Nasal Spray for more than 3 days.

Based on limited human data, it is not known if oxymetazoline crosses the human placenta. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Claritin Nasal Spray (oxymetazoline) is likely compatible in breastfeeding. Oxymetazoline may be excreted in the breastmilk, but there is limited absorption into the body from the nasal spray. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.