Using Nasal Spray? The Major Health Risk — and How People Use It Wrong

Nasal sprays can be highly effective, but they are not all the same. Saline sprays, steroid sprays, antihistamine sprays, and decongestant sprays work differently, and the major health warning applies mainly to decongestant products containing ingredients such as xylometazoline or oxymetazoline.

In April 2026, the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency tightened its advice for these medicines, warning that they should not be used continuously for more than five days. Prolonged use can trigger rebound congestion, leaving the nose more blocked and encouraging repeated spraying in a difficult cycle.