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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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Exp 50 years

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Is It Safe To Use Otrivine During Pregnancy?

Hii.. My wife is pregnant and is suffering from nasal congestion because of which she is not able to sleep properly. She is using otrivin once at night for the past one week. Is it safe during pregnancy or are there any other safer nasal sprays? Thanks.
Mon, 25 Aug 2014
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OBGYN 's  Response
Hello and welcome,

I understand the concern.

Otrivine contains xylometazoline that is used to constrict blood vessels in nose and decrease congestion. Repeated use leads to decreased effect. Its effects in pregnancy are not known. We do not advocate a long time use during pregnancy and it is not a first line drug as it constricts vessles. We advocate use of other safer anti allergic drugs like acetaminophen rather than otrivine if allergy is suspected. Also it is better to take it after prescription and ruling out the cause of chronic congestion.

So it is better to see a doctor and then use it. Also try measures like covering the nose while going out or doing work involving dust, use vaccum more often and change bed sheets and curtains twice a week to avoid dust collection and exposure.

Hope this satisfies your query.
Thanks for using HCM.     
Feel free to ask any more questions that you may have.
Dr Madhuri Bagde
Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist
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Is It Safe To Use Otrivine During Pregnancy?

Hello and welcome, I understand the concern. Otrivine contains xylometazoline that is used to constrict blood vessels in nose and decrease congestion. Repeated use leads to decreased effect. Its effects in pregnancy are not known. We do not advocate a long time use during pregnancy and it is not a first line drug as it constricts vessles. We advocate use of other safer anti allergic drugs like acetaminophen rather than otrivine if allergy is suspected. Also it is better to take it after prescription and ruling out the cause of chronic congestion. So it is better to see a doctor and then use it. Also try measures like covering the nose while going out or doing work involving dust, use vaccum more often and change bed sheets and curtains twice a week to avoid dust collection and exposure. Hope this satisfies your query. Thanks for using HCM.      Feel free to ask any more questions that you may have. Dr Madhuri Bagde Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist