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Adverse Effects of Nasal Sprays

Nasal sprays provide an effective delivery system for a variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Types of sprays include steroid, decongestant, antihistamine, saline, migraine medication and nicotine sprays. Each product is associated with a number of side effects, which may be bothersome to the user.

  1. Steroid Nasal Sprays

    • Steroid or corticosteroid nasal sprays may cause side effects. Examples of these nasal sprays are Nasonex and Beconase. They are prescribed to fight allergic rhinitis. Steroid nasal sprays should be used as directed by your doctor and not abused. Some of the more common minor side effects are nosebleeds, a burning sensation, an unpleasant aftertaste and hoarseness. However, many other side effects can occur and range from insomnia, impairment of the adrenal glands, suppression of growth, osteoporosis, menstrual irregularities to an increased risk of chickenpox or measles.

    Decongestant Nasal Sprays

    • Decongestant nasal sprays are used to constrict blood vessels. Examples of decongestant nasal sprays are Afrin and Neo-Synephrine. While these sprays are not steroids, they can cause rebound congestion if used more than 2 to 3 days at a time. Rebound congestion can cause an addiction to the use of decongestant nasal spray, setting up a vicious circle of use to reduce congestion only to have the congestion increased.

    Antihistamine Nasal Sprays

    • Astelin is an antihistamine nasal spray. It prevents the release of histamines, which cause allergic reactions. Side effects that may occur include red eyes, achy muscles, burning, sneezing, fatigue and a bitter taste in the mouth.

    Nasal Sprays for Migraine Headaches

    • One of the most widely hailed discoveries for the treatment of debilitating migraine headaches is Imitrex. This medication can be injected or purchased as a nasal spray. Side effects are usually minor and short-lived. They include disturbances of hearing, ear infection and dry mouth. However, a wide range of more serious side effects have occurred, including hypertension and cardiac-related events (tachycardia, palpitations and arrhythmia).

    Nicotine Nasal Sprays

    • Nicorette is a nasal spray for smoking cessation. Side effects during the first days of treatment include sneezing, nasal irritation, watery eyes, running nose and cough. These may go away with continued use. Other common symptoms include dizziness, headache and gastrointestinal discomfort.

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