From the FDA Drug Label
If pregnant or breast feeding, ask a health professional before use.
- The FDA recommends that pregnant patients consult a health professional before using Afrin (oxymetazoline) 1.
- It is not explicitly stated as safe for pregnant patients to use Afrin (oxymetazoline), and patients should exercise caution.
- Pregnant patients should seek medical advice before using the medication.
From the Research
Safety of Afrin (Oxymetazoline) for Pregnant Patients
- The safety of Afrin (oxymetazoline) for pregnant patients has been studied in several research papers 2, 3.
- A study published in 1990 found that a single dose of intranasal oxymetazoline did not cause significant changes in maternal and fetal circulations in healthy pregnant women 2.
- Another study published in 1999 reviewed the medical literature on the use of pharmacotherapy for allergic rhinitis during pregnancy and found that oral, intranasal, and ophthalmic decongestants, including oxymetazoline, should be considered as second-line therapy, although further studies are needed to clarify their fetal safety 3.
Efficacy and Safety of Oxymetazoline
- A study published in 2018 found that topical nasal decongestant oxymetazoline (0.05%) provides relief of nasal symptoms for 12 hours with minimal adverse events 4.
- However, a study published in 2021 highlighted the potential cardiovascular adverse effects of oxymetazoline in the pediatric population, particularly when systemically absorbed, and emphasized the need for caution when using it in children 5.
- It is worth noting that the safety of xylometazoline, a similar decongestant, has been studied in hospitalized infants, and the results suggest that low-dose xylometazoline may be safe in this population 6.
Considerations for Pregnant Patients
- While there is limited research specifically on the safety of Afrin (oxymetazoline) for pregnant patients, the available studies suggest that it may be safe to use in uncomplicated pregnancies 2, 3.
- However, as with any medication, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks and consult with a healthcare provider before using Afrin (oxymetazoline) during pregnancy.