
How can I safely store OTC decongestants? If you need to go to the doctor, take this list with you. When using decongestants, keep a record of the OTC medicines you’re using and when you take them. This spoon is the right size for the dose you need. If using a liquid decongestant, use the measuring spoon that came with the medicine.
Multiple medicines may have similar active ingredients that add up to be too much medicine.
Don’t use more than 1 OTC decongestant medicine at a time unless your doctor says it’s okay. If you’re taking a prescription medicine, ask your doctor if it’s okay to also take an OTC decongestant. Taking more than the recommended amount can be dangerous. Don’t assume more medicine will work better or quicker. Take only the amount shown on the medicine’s label. If you have any questions, call your doctor.įollow these tips to make sure you’re taking the right amount of medicine: It will tell you how much medicine to take and how often to take it. How can I safely take OTC decongestants?īefore you take OTC decongestants, read the directions on the drug facts label. Swollen tissue inside the nose shrinks, and air can pass through more easily. It can be hard to breathe through your nose.ĭecongestants work by narrowing the blood vessels in your nose. This leads to swelling of the blood vessels and tissue in your nose. When your body detects a virus, the flu, sinusitis, or allergies, it sends extra blood to the blood vessels in the nose to fight the problem.
Path to improved health How do decongestants work?