Afrin Nasal Spray Ingredients

According to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," allergic rhinitis symptoms include: sneezing, runny nose, congestion and watery eyes. Seasonal allergic rhinitis, or “hay fever,” occurs due to allergens present in the air at specific times of the year.

Hay Fever Sufferers Can Benefit From Afrin. (Image: Andy Sotiriou/Photodisc/Getty Images)

Afrin nasal spray, a decongestant, claims to relieve nasal discomfort caused by colds, allergies, hay fever, sinus congestion, and pressure. The mist pump product comes in Original, Severe Congestion, Extra Moisturizing, and Sinus. It reportedly acts within seconds, and the effects may last for up to 12 hours. Afrin contains an active ingredient and a number of inactive ingredients.

Oxymetazoline

According to Vitacost.com, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, 0.05 percent, the active ingredient in Afrin nasal spray, works by constricting, or shrinking, the blood vessels in the nose, and thereby reducing nasal blood flow.

According to Drugs.com, side effects include: sneezing or burning, stinging, dryness, or irritation of the nose, an allergic reaction manifested by difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; hives; seizures; unusual behavior or hallucinations; or an irregular, or fast heartbeat.

Do not use oxymetazoline nasal for longer than three days. Use only as directed. Frequent or prolonged use may cause nasal congestion to recur or worsen. If symptoms persist, consult a doctor, according to CFR.VLEX.com.

Benzalkonium Chloride

Benzalkonium chloride solution, a topical antiseptic, and inactive ingredient, serves as a nonmercurial antimicrobial preservative in nasal sprays. It prevents the growth of fungal, bacterial and viral pathogens.

According to ENT-CONSULT.com, benzalkonium chloride solution can cause rebound congestion similar to oxymetazoline hydrochloride.

Other Inactive Ingredients

Other inactive ingredients, which constitute the water phase in Afrin, include: edetate disodium, an antioxidant; polyethylene glycol, a moisturizing agent; povidone; propylene glycol; sodium phosphate dibasic and sodium phosphate monobasic, buffers that maintain the pH between 4.0 and 8.0; and water.