Decongestants

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Decongestants can provide short-term relief for a blocked or stuffy nose. They reduce swelling of the blood vessels in the nose which helps to open up the airways.

Most decongestants can be bought over-the-counter from pharmacies. A pharmacist will discuss your symptoms with you and offer advice on the right decongestant for you.

What are decongestants used for?

Decongestants can help ease the symptoms of:

• colds
• flu
• hay fever
• allergic reactions
• sinusitis

Types of decongestants

Decongestants are available as:

• nasal sprays
• tablets or capsules
• liquids or syrups
• flavoured powders to dissolve in hot water

All-in-one remedies

Some products only contain decongestant medication. But, many are sold as ‘all-in-one’ remedies. These contain extra painkillers and/or antihistamines. This means it could be dangerous to take extra separate doses of these medicines at the same time as decongestants.

How to take decongestants

Check the patient information leaflet for advice about how much decongestant to take and how often to take it. If you’re unsure, ask a pharmacist for advice.

Speak to your GP if your symptoms do not improve after a week.

Possible side effects

Decongestant medicines don’t usually have side effects. If you do experience any side effects, these will usually be mild.

Possible side effects of decongestant medicines can include:

• irritation of the lining of your nose
• headaches
• feeling or being sick
• a dry mouth
• feeling restless or agitated
• a rash
• uncontrollable shaking (tremor)
• problems sleeping (insomnia)
• a rapid and/or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
• noticeable heartbeats (palpitations)
• in men, difficulty peeing

These side effects should pass after you stop taking the medication.

More serious side effects can also occur but these are very rare.

Warnings and precautions

Most people can use decongestants safely, but they’re not suitable for everyone.

You should get advice from you GP or pharmacist before using decongestants if you have:

• diabetes
• high blood pressure
• an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism)
• an enlarged prostate
• glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• liver problems
• kidney problems
• a heart condition
• circulation problems

Children

Not all decongestants are suitable for children.

Decongestants shouldn’t be given to children under 6 years old. Children aged 6 to 12 should not take decongestants for longer than 5 days. 

Always check the patient information leaflet for advice. If you’re unsure, ask a pharmacist.

Other medicines and decongestants

If you want to check that your medicines are safe to take with decongestants, ask your pharmacist or GP.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Tell your healthcare professional if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. This means that they can advise if a decongestant is suitable for you.