Vicks Sinex Nasal Spray

What is Vicks Sinex Nasal Spray?

Vicks Sinex is a metered-dose decongestant nasal spray containing oxymetazoline. Sinex Micromist is licensed for congestion caused by the common cold, hay fever and sinusitis. Sinex Soother is licensed for a blocked nose with a cold or rhinitis. Both contain the same amount of oxymetazoline, and Soother also contains menthol, cineole and aloe extract among its other ingredients.

How does it help?

Oxymetazoline acts on receptors in the small blood vessels of the nasal lining and makes them narrow. This reduces the swelling that blocks the nose, so air can move more freely. It starts to work within minutes and the effect lasts for several hours.

Key benefits

• Starts to work within minutes of spraying
• Acts directly on the lining of the nose, where the congestion is
• The metered pump gives a measured dose with every spray
• Micromist: 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril every 6 to 8 hours. Soother: 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril no more than 2 or 3 times a day

Who should take care?

Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Do not use either spray for more than 7 days in a row (the Soother leaflet says 5 to 7 days), because longer use can make the nose blocked again. Do not use it if you are taking an MAOI (a medicine for depression or Parkinson's disease) or have taken one in the last two weeks, if you have had your pituitary gland removed or nasal surgery that exposed the dura mater, if the skin inside or around your nostrils is inflamed or scabbed, if you have phaeochromocytoma, acute heart disease or narrow-angle glaucoma, or if you are using another decongestant. Speak to us first if you have high blood pressure, heart disease including angina, diabetes, a thyroid problem, liver or kidney problems or an enlarged prostate; if you take beta-blockers or other blood pressure medicines, tricyclic antidepressants or bromocriptine; or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Both sprays contain benzalkonium chloride, which can irritate or swell the inside of the nose, and benzyl alcohol, which can cause allergic reactions. Keep away from the eyes. See a doctor if your symptoms get worse or do not improve after 3 days. Not for children under 12. Our pharmacist checks it is right for you before it is supplied.