Limit nasal decongestant spray use to seven days, says RPS
Published: 8 January 2026
This news story was published when the organisation was the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.
During the cold and flu season, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) is reminding the public that nasal decongestant sprays should not be used for longer than seven days in a row. Longer use can cause ‘rebound congestion’, when people become dependent on the sprays to breathe more easily.
New data from RPS shows nearly 60% of pharmacists questioned think patients are unaware of the risk.
Nasal decongestant sprays have been used for many years and are a safe, quick and effective way to clear a blocked nose when used as directed. They work by reducing the swelling in your nose, which helps to clear congestion and makes breathing easier. The sprays can be bought in many retail outlets.
However, using them beyond the maximum seven-day limit can lead to rebound congestion – known as rhinitis medicamentosa – a preventable condition where symptoms worsen and a cycle of dependency develops on the spray.
Signs you might be overusing nasal sprays include needing to use the spray more often, feeling your congestion is worse when you stop, buying multiple bottles or exceeding the recommended dose. If this happens, seek advice from your pharmacist or another healthcare professional.
A new RPS survey of over 300 community pharmacists about nasal decongestant sprays containing the decongestant xylometazoline, or oxymetazoline, found that:
- 59% believe patients are unaware of the risk of rebound congestion
- 74% say the packaging could be clearer about the seven-day limit
- 63% have intervened in cases of suspected over-use, often recommending alternatives or refusing sales.
The RPS is calling for clearer packaging to emphasise the seven-day use limit and greater public awareness of rebound congestion and safe alternatives.
Professor Amira Guirguis, RPS Chief Scientist, said:
“Nasal decongestant sprays can be helpful for short-term relief but using them for longer than seven days can make your congestion significantly worse. Our research shows that many people are unaware of this risk, which means they may continue using these sprays without realising they could be prolonging their symptoms.
“We’d like to see clearer warnings on the packaging which you can’t miss and greater awareness of the seven-day limit. If your congestion lasts more than a week, speak to your pharmacist. There are safe and effective alternative options to help you manage your symptoms.”
Top tips for using nasal decongestant sprays safely
- Always follow the instructions on the packaging and read the patient information leaflet
- Do not use for longer than seven days and use the minimum dose required
- If you are still congested after seven days, get advice from your pharmacist about other treatment options such as saline rinses, nasal strips, menthol products and steam inhalation.
Watch Professor Amira Guirguis speak to ITV about nasal decongestant sprays.
Find out more on how to use nasal decongestant sprays safely.
Read more RCPharm news stories.
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