What to do when you become addicted to nose drops

First, you might try with Prednisone with antibiotics, as stated above, but you could also dilute the drops you are using gradually. You can get a program of gradual reduction of the nasal drops through a company known as Rhinostat Systems. They are able to make a solution for you so that you gradually reduce the dose. Since you are no longer getting the rebound effect, this is a preferred method.

In some cases where you’ve been using the medication for a long time and you are already addicted, the cilia fail to resume good movement right away. This is why the nose may still feel as though it is stuffy. Hot tea, chicken soup, or compresses to the sinus area may help relieve this symptom. The Hydro Pulse nasal and sinus irrigator pulses at a rate to best restore normal cilia speed, so you could try this as well.

Consider taking oral decongestants, such as pseudoephedrine, during the transition period. However, make sure to use them as directed and be aware of potential side effects.

Is there a way to prevent nose drops addiction?

If you want to prevent nose drops addiction, try to avoid nose drops altogether. If you do get a stuffy nose on the first day, just take it easy, and don’t rush to the medicine cabinet. Plenty of tea and rest may be all you need. Once you start overusing nasal sprays, you can wind up addicted.

This happens not because you are weak, but because of the rebound effect of these medications. Doctors should emphasize that willpower is not the issue here. The RM caused by usage of nose drops is a chemical condition caused by the rebound of the medication.

Patients with RM need assistance to quit the nose spray habit, but the best cure, of course, is not to get started. Cortisone sprays, saline sprays without benzalkonium, and Breathe.ease XL spray, do not cause Rhinitis Medicamentosum.

If you must use the spray, consider alternating nostrils each time you use it. This may give one side of your nose a break. Use saline nasal sprays or rinses as an alternative. They help to moisturize the nasal passages and can assist with removing mucus, without the risk of addiction.

If allergens are causing your nasal congestion, try to reduce exposure to them. This could mean using high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your home, avoiding pets, or staying indoors during high pollen times.