People suffering from blocked noses have been advised to limit their use of nasal decongestant sprays to a maximum of five days or risk exacerbating the problem.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has imposed this restriction, warning that excessive use can lead to "rebound congestion" and other "adverse effects following prolonged use".
These sprays, which offer short-term relief from stuffiness caused by colds, allergies, and sinusitis, contain xylometazoline and oxymetazoline.
While new packaging and leaflets will eventually state the five-day usage limit, the regulator noted that these changes will take months to implement.
Patients are therefore urged to follow the updated guidance immediately, even before product information is revised.
Thao Huynh, head of respiratory imaging and critical care at the MHRA, said: “If your nose is still blocked after five days of using a nasal spray, it could be caused by overuse of the product, rather than your original symptoms.
“Continuing to use it could make the problem worse.
“Instead, talk to a healthcare professional about stopping use of the product and whether alternative treatments could help.
“These nasal sprays are safe and effective treatments when used as directed.
“It is important to always read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine and information on the outer packaging.”
Professor Amira Guirguis, chief scientist at the Royal College of Pharmacy, welcomed the update, adding: “Our recent survey found almost 60% of pharmacists who responded believe patients are unaware of the risks of using these medicines longer than recommended.
“We support clearer product information and improved packaging, alongside consistent public messaging, to improve awareness that these products are for short-term use only and to avoid preventable harm.”
