Q. I was dependent on OTC vasoconstrictor nasal sprays and had almost unbearable rebound congestion when I tried to stop. My doctor prescribed fluticasone (generic Flonase) spray. It took a couple days to go to work, and then I dropped the Afrin. The rebound was much more bearable for those few days. There is always some discomfort; the piper has to be paid.
When I’d been off the Afrin a week, I stopped the steroid spray. I keep some fluticasone around for severe nasal congestion, so I can use that rather than reaching for something like Afrin.
A. Thank you for sharing your experience. Nasal spray dependence is common after allergy season, and others may benefit from your strategy.
Other readers have recommended different approaches to alleviating nasal congestion:
“Capsaicin (hot pepper) spray works wonders. Is not addictive and no side effects that I know of. Just have to endure the first 30 secs of crazy burning sensation upon using it. My kids love to watch my silly reaction when I first spray it!”
Erin
“Neti pots are terrific! Just be sure to use purified water, not tap water.”
WW
“Have acupuncture or milk with 1/4 tsp of turmeric before going to bed. That’s very helpful for congestion.”
Ark
“Use OCEAN nasal spray at bed time & morning.”
George
“I was addicted to Nasonex until a doctor recommended a product called ‘Ayr,’ which I prefer in its saline mist form. I have also used the netti pot with warm saline water. Both of them have helped me with nasal congestion, getting me through the night.”
Charles
