Nasal decongestant sprays can worsen congestion if used for more than seven days.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society warns that using nasal decongestant sprays beyond seven days can cause rebound congestion; an RPS poll of 300 pharmacists found 59% think the public is unaware of this risk and many want clearer packaging.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has warned that nasal decongestant sprays can cause rebound congestion if used for longer than seven days. The condition, known as rhinitis medicamentosa, is reported to make symptoms worse and can lead to dependence on sprays. An RPS survey of 300 pharmacists found many believe the public is unaware of the risk, and a majority said packaging should make the seven‑day limit clearer. The warning was issued alongside NHS data showing a small rise in hospital flu cases after the holiday period. Key points: - The RPS warns that using nasal decongestant sprays for more than seven days can cause "rebound congestion" (rhinitis medicamentosa) that may worsen symptoms. - An RPS survey of 300 pharmacists found 59% said the public is unaware of the risk; 74% said packaging should be clearer and 63% reported intervening in suspected overuse. - The RPS stated packaging should make the seven‑day limit clear and noted that alternative options exist, as reported in its statement. - NHS England reported a modest increase in the average daily number of people in hospital with flu in the week ending Jan 4. Summary: Health bodies report that prolonged use of nasal decongestant sprays can prolong congestion and create dependence, and many pharmacists say patients do not recognise the risk. Undetermined at this time.