Back to Otrivin Nasal Spray (Xylometazoline)

Xylometazoline Dosage Guide in Pakistan — Adult, Child, Duration

It is essential to follow the correct dose and duration for Xylometazoline (Otrivin) — excessive use can cause rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa). This guide covers adult dose, child dose, and complete safe-use information.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

Dosage Guide

Quick Answer

Adult dose: 1-2 sprays/drops of xylometazoline 0.1% per nostril, up to 3 times daily. Maximum 5 consecutive days — risk of rebound congestion with excessive use. Children under 6: not the adult strength; only the 0.05% children's formulation on doctor's advice.

Dose at a Glance

Adult Dose

1-2 sprays/drops per nostril (0.1% strength)

Up to 3 times daily

Max: Maximum 5 consecutive days. Absolutely not more than this.

Child Dose (2-6 years: doctor's advice required. 6-12 years: 1-2 drops 2-3 times daily (0.05%). Under 2: not recommended.)

0.05% children's formulation only — 1 drop/spray per nostril

1-2 times daily (under medical supervision)

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, skip it. Never apply a double or extra dose — local or systemic side effects can increase.

Overdose

In case of overdose — especially in children — contact a doctor or emergency immediately. Symptoms may include palpitations, BP change, and drowsiness.

Xylometazoline Dosage (Kitni leni hai aur kaise)

Carefully follow the correct dose and duration of Xylometazoline — this is the only way to avoid rebound congestion.

Adult Dose (Baalgon ke liye — 0.1% strength)

Parameter	Details
Strength	0.1% nasal spray/drops
Dose	1-2 sprays/drops per nostril
Frequency	2-3 times daily (every 6-8 hours)
Max daily	6 sprays per nostril per day
Max duration	5 consecutive days only

Child Dose (Bachon ke liye — 0.05% strength ONLY)

Age	Dose	Frequency
Under 2 years	DO NOT use	—
2-6 years	1 drop/spray per nostril	1-2 times daily — on doctor's advice
6-12 years	1-2 drops per nostril	2-3 times daily
12+ years	Adult dose	Follow adult dose

Note: Children under 6 years ONLY get 0.05% children's formulation — never the adult 0.1%.

How to Use (Sahi tarika)

1. Blow the nose gently first 2. Tilt the head slightly forward and apply the spray 3. Press one nostril and put the spray/drops in the other 4. Breathe in deeply through the nose (30 seconds) 5. Straighten the head afterwards — prevent the medicine from running into the throat 6. Do not touch the bottle tip to the nasal wall (avoid contamination) 7. Do not share the bottle with anyone

Duration Warning (CRITICAL)

Absolutely not more than 3-5 consecutive days — this is non-negotiable. With excessive use:

Nasal blood vessels become dependent on the drug
When the medicine is stopped, the nose becomes even more congested (rebound congestion)
Rhinitis medicamentosa can develop — which can take weeks to resolve

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, skip it. Never apply an extra spray. Not applying a dose will cause the nose to be blocked for a little while — this is better than overuse.

Overdose

Overdose can be serious, especially in children. Symptoms: palpitations, BP fluctuation, drowsiness, pale skin. Go to the emergency room immediately.

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The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always confirm the dose with your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Xylometazoline correct dose kya hai?

For adults, 0.1% nasal spray: 1-2 sprays per nostril, up to 3 times daily (every 6-8 hours). Only 3-5 days consecutively. For children, the 0.05% formulation on doctor's advice.

Xylometazoline din mein kitni dafa lagaein?

Apply up to 2-3 times daily. Leave at least 6 hours between each dose. One dose before sleeping at night opens the nose and improves sleep.

Xylometazoline lagatar kitne din tak le sakte hain?

Only 3-5 consecutive days. Using more than this can cause rhinitis medicamentosa (rebound congestion) — the nose becomes more congested. If such need arises, see a doctor.

Xylometazoline kaise lagaein — sahi tarika?

Tilt the head slightly forward before applying the spray, then breathe in deeply through the nose for 30 seconds. Press one nostril and spray into the other. Straighten the head afterwards to prevent the medicine from running into the throat. Do not share the bottle.

Kya xylometazoline overdose dangerous hai?

Yes — especially in children. Symptoms include palpitations, BP change, and drowsiness. Contact a doctor or emergency immediately.

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Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.