Pharmacists encounter this problem almost daily. Patients who come to the pharmacy for nasal decongestants are often unaware of the risks of the treatment and underestimate the consequences. Due to the quick relief and easy availability, these products are often used for longer than necessary. However, this is only a symptomatic treatment.

Decongestants (e.g. xylometazoline, naphazoline, oxymetazoline, tramazoline) have a vasoconstrictive effect on the nasal mucosa - by narrowing the blood vessels, blood flow in the area is reduced, thereby reducing swelling (possibly inflammation). However, they are intended for short-term use and can be highly addictive if overused.

Long-term use can lead to the following problems:

• rebound phenomenon (after discontinuation, symptoms may be worse than before treatment was started),
• chronic inflammation (damage to the nasal mucosa, increased mucus production),
• atrophy of the mucosa (reduced blood flow leads to thinning of the mucosa – frequent nosebleeds),
• risk of infections (loss of natural immunity, easier development of infections),
• psychological dependence, etc.

Addiction to nasal sprays can be prevented by:

• following the recommended dosage including the duration of treatment (for adults 5-7 days, for children 3-5 days),
• a recommendation from a specialist (doctor or pharmacist),
• using alternative forms (e.g. sea water: hypertonic – suitable for a stuffy nose, isotonic – suitable for moisturizing and cleansing; herbal drops with essential oils, etc.)

Long-term use can damage the nasal mucosa, but also worsen the quality of life. The professionally trained pharmacy staff will help you set up an effective treatment and at the same time warn you about the dangers of inappropriate use.

Freely available according to the web portal of the Czech Chamber of Pharmacists for the public Pharmacist Drops, 30. 9. 2025