Overview
- The MHRA, which announced the change Thursday, will add a five-day limit to new packs and leaflets over the coming months while existing stock may still show seven days.
- The decision follows advice to the Commission on Human Medicines after evidence that longer use can cause rebound congestion, where swollen nasal tissues get worse with continued spraying.
- The rule covers over-the-counter sprays and drops with xylometazoline or oxymetazoline, which are sold for short-term relief of colds, allergies and sinusitis.
- People are urged to follow the five-day limit now, speak to a pharmacist or GP if a blocked nose lasts, and report side effects to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
- Research by Ipsos and ITV News found over a fifth of users exceeded a week of use, putting an estimated 5.5 million people in the UK at risk of dependence.