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Rebound congestion is a constant nasal stuffiness (congestion) that develops from the overuse of nasal sprays (or drops or gels) that contain a decongestant medicine. This type of congestion occurs even when a person is not experiencing allergies or other cold-like symptoms.
Some examples of nasal spray decongestants are oxymetazoline and phenylephrine. Either of these ingredients can be in products such as Claritin, Drixoral, or Dristan. Read the product label to see the ingredient list.
Rebound congestion can develop from using a nasal decongestant more times in one day or more days than the label says. As the medicine wears off, sinus membranes swell, causing congestion. A person may respond by using more of the decongestant to make the congestion go away again. If the cycle continues, the person keeps overusing the medicine. Eventually, congestion occurs whenever they don't use the nasal decongestant.
Adaptation Date: 02/24/2022
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
Adapted with permission from copyrighted materials from Ignite Healthwise, LLC (Healthwise). This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty and is not responsible or liable for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
