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Oxymetazoline use while Breastfeeding

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 17, 2025.

Drugs containing Oxymetazoline: Afrin, Rhofade, Upneeq, Zicam Extreme Congestion Relief, Vicks Sinex 12-Hour Decongestant Nasal Spray, Afrin NoDrip Severe Congestion, Zicam Sinus Relief, Afrin Original, Mucinex Sinus-Max Full Force, Afrin Sinus, Show all 47 »Afrin NoDrip Extra Moisturizing, Afrin NoDrip Original, Afrin NoDrip Sinus, 12 Hour Nasal Decongestant Spray, Vicks Sinex Severe Nasal Spray, Afrin Allergy Sinus Nasal Spray, Vicks Sinex Moisturizing 12-Hour Decongestant UltraFine Mist, Afrin Severe Congestion, Rhinase D Moisturizing Nasal Decongestant, Nostrilla, Kovanaze, Mucinex Sinus-Max Pressure, Pain & Cough and Sinus-Max Clear & Cool Nasal Spray, Oxymeta-12, Oxyfrin, NRS Nasal, Four-Way Nasal Spray, Neo-Synephrine 12 Hour, Vicks Sinex 12-Hour Decongestant UltraFine Mist, Mucinex Sinus-Max Moisture Smart, Sudafed OM Sinus Cold, Sudafed OM Sinus Congestion, Dristan 12 Hour Nasal Spray, Vicks QlearQuil 12 Hour Nasal Decongestant Moisturizing Spray, Nostrilla 12 Hour, Todays Health Nasal Relief Extra Moisturizing, Afrin NoDrip Allergy Sinus, Mucinex Sinus-Max Clear & Cool, Giltuss Severe Sinus, NTZ Long Acting Nasal, Allerest 12 Hour Nasal Spray, Duramist Plus, CVS Health Sinus Relief, Genasal, Sinarest Nasal, 12 Hour Nasal, Visine L.R. Long Lasting Redness Relief, OcuClear

Oxymetazoline Levels and Effects while Breastfeeding

Summary of Use during Lactation

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.

Drug Levels

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

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

Effects in Breastfed Infants

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

Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

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

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References

1.
Anderson PO. Decongestants and milk production. J Hum Lact 2000;16:294. [PubMed: 11155604]

Substance Identification

Substance Name

Oxymetazoline

CAS Registry Number

1491-59-4

Drug Class

Breast Feeding

Lactation

Milk, Human

Adrenergic alpha-Agonists

Sympathomimetics

Nasal Decongestants

Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. The U.S. government does not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.