Jeanette asked
Can you take Afrin nasal spray and Robitussin DM cough syrup together?
At a glance
- Since Afrin (oxymetazoline) is absorbed, at least slightly, after nasal administration, it does have potential drug interactions. It is not known to interact with Robitussin DM (guaifenesin; dextromethorphan) however.
Answer
Yes, it is safe to use Afrin nasal spray (oxymetazoline) and Robitussin DM (guaifenesin; dextromethorphan) cough syrup together. There is no known interaction between them.[1]
Does Afrin Have Drug Interactions?
It is important to point out that even though Afrin is used intranasally to relieve congestion and not intended for systemic absorption (like oral drugs are), some of the drug is absorbed into the circulatory system through the nose, with is highly vascularized and rich in blood flow.[2]
It isn't thought to be absorbed to a significant extent, but, since it is at least partially absorbed, it has been linked to several potential side effects, including:[3][4]
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Increased blood pressure
- Decreased heart rate
- Increased heart rate
The risk of these side effects is thought to be minimal, but could certainly happen in susceptible individuals.
Additionally, it potentially could interact with other drugs that affect blood pressure so it is important to consider all the medication you are taking before using Afrin.[5]
As mentioned earlier, however, Afrin is not known to have any interaction with Robitussin DM (which also should have no effect on blood pressure) so they should be safe together.
References
- ^ Elsevier ClinicalKey: Oxymetazoline Monograph. ClinicalKey (Subscription Required)
- ^ Systemic side effects of locally used oxymetazoline. PubMed
- ^ Bradycardia, hypotension, and near-syncope associated with Afrin (oxymetazoline) nasal spray. PubMed
- ^ Are nasal decongestants safer than rhinitis? A case of oxymetazoline-induced syncope. PubMed
- ^ Non-prescription sympathomimetic agents and hypertension. PubMed
