Oxymetazoline

The Basics

What is Oxymetazoline?

Temporary relief of nasal congestion (stuffy nose) caused by allergies or the common cold

Brand names for Oxymetazoline

Afrin, Ocuclear, Drixine

How Oxymetazoline is classified

Adrenergic alpha-Agonists, Sympathomimetics, Nasal Decongestants

Oxymetazoline During Pregnancy

Oxymetazoline pregnancy category

Category N/ANote that the FDA has deprecated the use of pregnancy categories, so for some medications, this information isn’t available. We still think it’s useful to list historical info, however, given what a common proxy this has been in the past.

What we know about taking Oxymetazoline while pregnant

N/A

Taking Oxymetazoline While Breastfeeding

What are recommendations for lactation if you're taking Oxymetazoline?

Although no information exists on the use of oxymetazoline specifically during breastfeeding, very little should reach the infant through breastmilk because of the local administration and limited absorption into the maternal bloodstream. It is recommended over oral systemic decongestants such as pseudoephedrine during breastfeeding.[1] Topical use on the face is unlikely to present a risk to the nursing infant.

Maternal / infant drug levels

Although no information exists on the use of oxymetazoline specifically during breastfeeding, very little should reach the infant through breastmilk because of the local administration and limited absorption into the maternal bloodstream. It is recommended over oral systemic decongestants such as pseudoephedrine during breastfeeding.[1] Topical use on the face is unlikely to present a risk to the nursing infant.

Possible effects of Oxymetazoline on milk supply

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

Possible alternatives to Oxymetazoline