Side Effects Of Phenylephrine
Phenylephrine may cause some side effects. These are important to consider during pregnancy when your comfort and your babys health are primary concerns. Some of the side effects may go away as your body gets used to the medication. If any of these side effects cause problems for you or dont go away, call your doctor.
The more common side effects of phenylephrine can include:
- trouble sleeping
- burning, stinging, or sneezing right after you use the nasal spray
Serious side effects are usually caused by swallowing the intranasal product by accident. Some serious side effects can include:
- Mucinex Fast-Max Cold, Flu & Sore Throat
Examples of intranasal drugs that contain phenylephrine include:
There are also many generic-version products that contain phenylephrine. These products may combine phenylephrine with other drugs such as guaifenesin and dextromethorphan . Be sure to read the labels of any OTC medications you take so you know exactly what drugs youre using.
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Spray foam duct insulation improves HVAC performance and efficiency. Spray foam duct insulation seals air leaks and provides excellent insulation value to improve efficiency. This means the air you pay to heat must pass through cold ductwork, where it will cool off, forcing your furnace to run longer.
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Safely Treating Sinus Congestion While Pregnant
These five tips for treating sinus congestion while pregnant can help you get over your stuffy nose without using medication that might pose a risk to baby.
1. Avoid Allergens and Pollutants
Avoid unnecessary exposure to nasal allergens and pollutants, such as smog and cigarette smoke.
2. Keep Yourself Hydrated
Drinking even more water than usual each day is very effective in treating sinus congestion while pregnant.
3. Keep Your Nasal Passages Clear
Flush your nasal passages with saltwater nose drops several times a day. These are available without a prescription, or you can make your own. To make your own saltwater drops, use a quarter teaspoon of salt to a cup of water.
4. Use a Facial Steamer for Treating Sinus Congestion
Clear sinus congestion while pregnant with a simple facial steamer. A facial steamer is a hot mist vaporizer. A facial steamer steam cleans your nasal passageways.
5. Consider Nasal Sprays
Medicines that constrict the noses blood vessels may enter the bloodstream and constrict the uterus or placenta blood vessels. Therefore, decongestants should be used only under a doctors supervision and only in the dosage and frequency your doctor recommends.
Some nasal sprays are safer than others. Except for saltwater nasal spray, consult your doctor before taking nasal sprays.
Afrin
- Afrin , when used only twice a day and for a couple of days, hasnt been shown to cause harmful effects on the developing baby.
Inhaled Nasal Steroids
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How To Use It
Follow the instructions that come with your nasal spray.
If youre using a new bottle, it may not work first time. Pump the spray a few times until a fine mist comes out. Youll also need to do this if the bottle has not been used for a few days.
Gently shake the bottle and remove the cap.
After using your spray, wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap.
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Which Steroid Nasal Sprays Should I Use If Im Pregnant
We have the most information about budesonide use during pregnancy as far as research studies go. For this reason, its recommended as the first-choice treatment for allergic rhinitis in pregnant women. Budesonide nasal spray is available with a prescription as generic budesonide or brand-names Rhinocort Aqua, Entocort, and Pulmicort. Its also available over-the-counter as Rhinocort Allergy. Other options that are safe to use during pregnancy include mometasone and fluticasone propionate .
As we mentioned above, triamcinolone , which is also available over the counter, is the main steroid nasal spray of potential concern. If you have questions about which nasal steroid spray to choose, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before you try any.
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Which Nasal Spray Is Safe During Pregnancy
Asked By : Verna Evans
Budesonide nasal spray is available with a prescription as generic budesonide or brand-names Rhinocort Aqua, Entocort, and Pulmicort. Its also available over-the-counter as Rhinocort Allergy. Other options that are safe to use during pregnancy include mometasone and fluticasone propionate .
How Steroid Nasal Sprays Work
Steroids are a man-made version of hormones normally produced by the adrenal glands, which are 2 small glands above the kidneys.
When sprayed into the nose, steroids reduce inflammation .
This can help relieve symptoms such as sneezing and a runny or blocked nose. It can also help to reduce the size of any swellings (such as polyps in your nose.
Steroid nasal sprays are not the same as anabolic steroids, which are often used illegally by some people to increase their muscle mass.
Page last reviewed: 15 January 2020 Next review due: 15 January 2023
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What Were The Basic Results
From the large number of comparisons made between certain medicine ingredients and specific birth defects, three statistically significant links were found:
- Mothers who used phenylephrine during the first trimester of pregnancy were eight times more likely to have given birth to an infant with endocardial cushion defect than mothers who hadnt used it 8.0, 95% confidence interval 2.5 to 25.3).
- Mothers using phenylpropanolamine during the first trimester of pregnancy were 7.8 times more likely to have given birth to an infant with ear defects than mothers not using it and 3.2 times more likely to have given birth to an infant with pyloric stenosis .
Both phenylephrine and phenylpropanolamine are commonly used in decongestant medicines.
To give a sense of the scale of the risks, the study authors were quoted in the Mail Online article explaining how the risk of an endocardial cushion defect among babies whose mothers did not take decongestants is about 3 per 10,000 live births and that even the eight-fold increase in risk indicated by the study results, while it sounds large, would translate to a 2.7 in 1,000 chance the baby would have the defect.
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Alternatives To Nasal Spray
Most prescription and OTC nasal sprays are considered safe to use during pregnancy however, most healthcare providers recommend being extra careful when using them. While there is some evidence that certain components in nasal sprays can be absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to possible side effects, the risk of harm is small. However, since medication uptake can vary from person to person, it is best to discuss their use with a healthcare professional if pregnant. Fortunately, there are several alternatives available to pregnant women who wish to alleviate nasal congestion while avoiding potential risks associated with medicated sprays.
Finally, exercising regularly throughout pregnancy can prevent excess mucus build up however it is important not overexert yourself due to increased risk of exhaustion during this time. When outdoors exposed pollen and other airborne allergens may exacerbate nasal symptoms so keeping indoor activities on days when air quality has been compromised should also be kept in mind.
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Who Should Not Take Afrin
Children under six years, women who are pregnant or nursing, and people who have had an allergic reaction to Afrin shouldnât use it. This medication should be used with caution in individuals who have kidney or liver disease. It is recommended that individuals with diabetes, thyroid disease, heart problems, and a history of stroke or high blood pressure discuss the use of this medication with their healthcare provider. It is important to clear all medications with your practitioner and pharmacist to make sure that you are not taking a medicine that could result in an adverse reaction when used with Afrin.
Tips For Maximizing Nasal Spray Benefits During Pregnancy
Nasal sprays have been found to be generally safe for use during pregnancy, so long as the patient is under medical supervision and adheres to any additional guidelines provided by their doctor. However, if left unchecked or used excessively, there is the potential for nasal sprays to do more harm than good. Here are a few tips for maximizing the benefits of nasal spray during pregnancy:
Make sure to speak with your doctor about all concerns related to nasal sprays before using them. Dont use a nasal spray unnecessarily only apply as needed. When using a nasal spray, be careful not to overuse it no more than two courses per day unless directed otherwise by a medical professional. Ensure that instructions are being followed correctly and that any additional instructions provided by a care provider are being followed as well. Avoid using a decongestant within the last month of pregnancy. Prefer natural remedies such as steam inhalation and humidifiers instead of chemical sprays whenever possible. Stay hydrated drinking plenty of fluids helps loosen and move mucus out of the body more easily.
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Is Saline Nasal Spray The Same As Saline Solution
You can buy an over-the-counter saline solution or make one at home. Most over-the-counter saline nasal sprays are isotonic, which means the solution is the same saline concentration as in your body. Hypertonic versions have a higher concentration of salt than whats in your body. Both types can help clear mucus.
About Fluticasone Nasal Spray Or Drops
Fluticasone nasal spray is a steroid nasal spray for cold-like symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis. This is inflammation of the inside of your nose that can be from hay fever.
Fluticasone is a type of medicine called a steroid . Corticosteroids are a copy of a substance your body makes naturally. They are not the same as anabolic steroids.
Fluticasone nasal spray is available on prescription for adults and children. Adults can also buy it from pharmacies and supermarkets. Brands include Flixonase, Avamys and Nasofan.
Some nasal sprays, such as Dymista, contain fluticasone mixed with other medicines, such as antihistamines, that help with an allergy.
Fluticasone also comes as nasal drops that shrink nasal polyps. These are only available on a prescription. Brand names include Flixonase.
It also comes as an inhaler and as a cream or ointment. Read about:
- fluticasone inhalers for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- fluticasone skin creams for skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis
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Mums On Our Forum Say
Some mums on our forums commented that they couldnât find anything other than Vicks or Olbas oil to help with their blocked noses. But this mum says:
âI suffer terribly from sinusitis and since being pregnant I have been using Sterimar which is a natural sea water nasal spray that is totally safe in pregnancy. Iâve found it makes a huge difference, more than the endless antibiotics and decongestants I was given pre-pregnancy. Also I put a saucepan of boiling water in my room at bedtime, keeps the air moist and helps to stop your nasal passages drying out.âLou66
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How To Cope With Side Effects Of Mometasone Nasal Spray
What to do about:
- headaches â make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller and talk to your doctor if the headaches last longer than a week or are severe.
- unpleasant taste or smell â rinsing your mouth out with water or brushing your teeth after you use your nasal spray may help.
- sneezing â this will usually settle down as you get used to the medicine.
- nosebleeds or dry or sore nose or throat â stop using mometasone for a few days then start again. Speak to your doctor or a pharmacist if these side effects do not go away.
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Is It A Cold Or Something More
Nasal congestion can be a sign of an underlying infection. Before using a decongestant nasal spray during pregnancy, talk with your physician about the symptoms you are experiencing. This is especially important if you have multiple symptoms, including fever, chest congestion, headache, and other body pain.
Cold Medications For Pregnancy And Breastfeeding
Selecting a cold medication while pregnant or breastfeeding that is going to be safe for both you and your baby can be stressful and overwhelming.
Here, youâll find answers to your questions and information about common ingredients found in cold medicines that are considered safe for you and your baby.
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Is Nasal Sprays Safe In Pregnancy
Asked by: Rozella Botsford II
Nasal spray decongestants are even safer, since the medication is almost entirely absorbed within the nose and does not travel through the body. As a general rule, physicians advise patients that if they can buy it without visiting the pharmacy counter, short term use will not harm the baby during pregnancy.
From Cold And Cough To Hemorrhoid And Nausea We Break Down Safe Otc Medications To Take While Pregnant
Its the dead of winter and you cant sleep, because youre 7 months pregnant and your baby has decided to be nocturnal. You know you need sleep, because lack of good rest inhibits your immune system. This stresses you out, because your spouse has a nasty cold, and youd rather avoid it.
Your spouse is resting peacefully in the guest room because he has a plethora of over-the-counter medications at his disposal.
But not you. Youre pregnant, and your OTC medicine choices are extremely limited. So, you hope to stay healthy amid the stress and discomfort of pregnancy. Not to mention its cold and flu season.
Then, you realize. Your nose is running. Your sinuses feel clogged. Youre getting sick.
Your first instinct is to want to grab those great medications your spouse is taking. But you know you have to be careful.
In no time, youre miserable with symptoms of the common cold. Youre desperate for relief, but you know the safety of your baby is paramount.
Advanced Womens Healthcare is here to help with a comprehensive list of safe over-the-counter medications to take during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor for the best personalized choices for you.
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What Are The Side Effects Of Saline Nasal Spray
What are the side effects of sodium chloride-nasal spray?
- Allergic reaction
® nasal tip allows the solution to flow freely into the nose with maximum comfort.Effectively cleanses excessive mucus accumulation to relieve nasal and sinus symptoms caused by allergies, colds and upper respiratory tract infections.
Cautions With Other Medicines
Some medicines and mometasone can affect each other. This can increase your chances of side effects, or it may mean changing your mometasone dose.
Check with a pharmacist or your doctor if youre taking:
- medicines used to treat HIV, such as ritonavir or cobicistat
- antifungal medicines such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
- other medicines that contain steroids such as eczema creams, asthma inhalers, tablets, injections and eyedrops
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More Information On Different Types Of Nasal Decongestant During Pregnancy
Generally, during pregnancy over-the-counter drugs are avoided. Many drugs that are considered safe now, may not be considered safe in the future instead of risking the health of your baby, it is better to not take any medication.
Avoidance is better than cure for this reason, limit your exposure to people so that you may not contract any viral infection or flu. Sometimes, however, it becomes unavoidable to take medication in this case, talk with your doctor about which medicines are safe and which are not.
1. Pseudoephedrine
This is a popular over-the-counter nasal decongestant during pregnancy. Despite that, it is a category C drug which means that although safe for the fetus, its effects have not been studied widely in pregnant humans and animals.
Pseudoephedrine or Sudafed is widely used to relieve stuffy nose caused by a common cold or allergy. Its effect is mainly short-term and it works by constricting the blood vessels of the nasal membranes. Although it might temporarily relieve symptoms of the patient, it will not treat the cause of congestion.
If you want to use pseudoephedrine, you must first talk about it with your doctor or midwife.
2. Loratadine
This is a category B drug which means that animal experimentation with this drug has shown no harmful effects. It is therefore, considered to be a safe drug to take during pregnancy.
3. Spray Nasal Decongestant
Saline-only nasal decongestant sprays, on the other hand, are considered to be safe during pregnancy.
What Are Some Things I Need To Know Or Do While I Take Afrin Nasal Spray
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take Afrin Nasal Spray ). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- Do not use for more than 3 days. Using Afrin Nasal Spray ) too often or for longer than you have been told may cause nose stuffiness to happen again or get worse.
- This medicine may cause harm if swallowed or if too much is used. The chance is higher in children. If Afrin Nasal Spray ) is swallowed or too much is used, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
- Talk with the doctor before you give Afrin Nasal Spray ) to a child younger than 6 years old.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.
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