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Saline nasal spray is used to help with a dryness or irritation in your nose or a stuffy nose. It is usually well tolerated. You may have short-term burning, stinging, sneezing, or a runny nose right after using it. Do not share your saline nasal spray with other people. This may spread germs. 

Uses

What is saline nasal spray used for?

Saline nasal spray is commonly used to help with any of the following.

  • Adding moisture to your nose when needed, such as after a bloody nose, when the humidity is low, after exposure to smoke or pollution, or if other medicines your spray in your nose cause dryness or irritation 
  • Rinse or remove things from your nose that may cause allergy symptoms (such as dirt, dust, or pollen)
  • Relieve a stuffy nose from things such as sinusitis or the common cold

These uses may vary depending on the specific saline nasal spray product you are using. 

Saline nasal spray may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not reviewed some of these products for safety and effectiveness, and some labels are not approved by the FDA. Learn more about unapproved drugs here.

Other forms of sodium chloride are available. See: Saline (Sodium Chloride) for nebulization, Sodium Chloride (injection), Sodium Chloride ophthalmic, and Sodium Chloride (oral).

How does saline nasal spray work (mechanism of action)?

Saline nasal spray is a mixture of salt and water that you spray inside your nose to add moisture. It can help loosen any irritants inside your nose, such as dust, dirt, or pollen. It can also help thin mucus to improve a stuffy nose or sinus congestion.

How is saline nasal spray supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Ayr
  • Little Remedies
  • Ocean
  • Rhinaris
  • Simply Saline

Dosage forms and strengths

Saline nasal spray is available in various strengths and forms that are used in the nose. 

How should I store saline nasal spray?

Saline nasal spray should be stored at room temperature, usually between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). Some products may be exposed to temperatures between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C) for shorter periods of time, such as when transporting it. Store in a cool, dry place. Follow the storage instructions for the product you are using. If you are not sure how to store your saline nasal spray, ask your pharmacist.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of saline nasal spray?

The most common side effects of saline nasal spray are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Mild burning or stinging
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose

There may be other side effects of saline nasal spray that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of saline nasal spray?

While less common, the most serious side effects of saline nasal spray are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Saline nasal spray may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using saline nasal spray and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives, which can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use saline nasal spray?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use saline nasal spray.

  • Ayr
  • Little Remedies
  • Ocean
  • Rhinaris
  • Simply Saline
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific saline nasal spray products they stock.

What should I know about saline nasal spray before using it?

Read and follow the instructions that come with the product or use it as your health care provider tells you. Saline nasal spray should only be used in your nose. Avoid spraying it in your eyes. 

Keep saline nasal spray out of the reach of children.

Do not share your saline nasal spray with other people. This may spread germs.

Stop using your saline nasal spray and contact your health care provider if you have significant discomfort or irritation when using it. 

What should I tell my health care provider before using saline nasal spray?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if saline nasal spray is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use saline nasal spray while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use saline nasal spray while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Does saline nasal spray interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between saline nasal spray and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect saline nasal spray.

Does saline nasal spray interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Saline nasal spray may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much saline nasal spray?

If you or someone else has used too much saline nasal spray, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of saline nasal spray?

Saline nasal spray is meant to be used only when needed. Use it as your health care provider recommends. Do not use double or extra doses.