Is nasal spray addiction even possible? In a nutshell- no it is not possible. Let’s take a look at why you wouldn’t find yourself in rehab over your favorite decongestant.

No Addictive Ingredients

Your nasal sprays does not have any addictive ingredients in it so you are pretty much safe from every becoming an addict due to the spray but what about your actions.

You are the one who seems to be running for the nasal spray every time your nose becomes congested. This is why you think you are addicted. You may even find that you’re using an even higher dosage to clear you sinuses.

The Nasal Spray Stops Working

This happens when you’re using the medication for a prolonged period of time. You body builds up a special immunity to the drug. In order for you to have the same effect you either try using more than the prescribed dosage or you change the drug. This may work for a little while and then you’re back to square one.

Your Symptoms Are Your Fault

Let me reassure you that you really don’t have a nasal spray addiction but you do have a growing problem. Your sinusitis is getting worse and you’re actually the cause of it. You are further damaging your nasal passage by using these drugs for extended periods of time. This damage may even cause nose bleeds and other serious injuries.

What also happens is something called rebound congestion that occurs when you use the readily available over the counter nasal decongestants for a prolonged period of time. This type of medication was not designed to be taken for more than 3 – 5 days in a row.

Find An Alternatives

Because of the symptoms of sinusitis like sleepless nights, a constant runny nose and terrible headaches to name a few, it becomes easier to turn to the spray for help but they are alternatives.

You can ask your doctor about prescribing oral medication instead. It works just the same and it is perfectly safe. You’re less likely to get “hooked” on the oral decongestants but some people may still abuse these drugs for quick relief. If abused you will still become immune to it and it won’t work for very long.