Dristan

The active ingredient in Dristan is oxymetazoline hydrochloride. Oxymetazoline is a nasal decongestant that works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose to reduce sinus congestion and provide sinus relief.

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 Dristan. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Dristan:

• The recommended dose of Dristan 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 doses in 24 hours. Follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• To use Dristan for the first time, prime the pump by spraying it 4 times. Then, clear your nose and hold the spray bottle with your thumb under the base and nozzle between two fingers. Insert the nozzle into the nostril and spray and breathe in gently at the same time. Repeat with the other nostril. Afterward, clean the nozzle and put the cap back on.
• Do not use Dristan 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 Dristan seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Headache.
• Nasal discomfort, stinging, burning, or dryness.
• Sneezing.
• Runny nose.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Dristan. 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 Dristan 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.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Dristan. 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 Dristan, 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:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, hyperthyroidism (thyroid disease), diabetes, and trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate.
• Tendency to have nosebleeds.
• Phaeochromocytoma.

• Do not use in children under 6 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 Dristan, and it can last for up to 12 hours.

When Dristan 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.

Dristan is available as a 0.05% oxymetazoline nasal spray decongestant, 0.5 fl oz (15 mL).

Benzalkonium chloride is a preservative in Dristan. For more product information and a full list of inactive ingredients, please see the manufacturer's website.

Store Dristan at room temperature, out of reach of children and pets.

Foundation Consumer Brands manufactures Dristan.

Yes, there are generic versions of Dristan available. The generic name is oxymetazoline hydrochloride nasal spray.

Other brand names of oxymetazoline nasal spray are Afrin, Zicam, and Vicks Sinex.

You should stop using Dristan when your nasal congestion symptoms improve. Dristan should not be used 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.

Dristan (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.