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| How to use your nose drops |
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Written by Helen Marshall, pharmacist
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What are nose drops?
Nose drops are a solution or suspension of medicine. They are
used to produce a local effect directly in the nose.
How to use nose drops
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Gently blow your nose so that your nostrils are clear.
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If your nose drops are a suspension, the label will remind you
to shake the bottle before using the drops.
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Wash your hands.
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Take the lid off the bottle (for bottles with an integrated
dropper, draw some liquid into the dropper).
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Tip your head back.
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Hold the bottle or dropper above your nostril and gently
squeeze the correct number of drops into the nostril, taking care not to touch
the nose with the bottle or dropper.
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Keep your head tipped back for a few minutes to allow the drops
to drain into the back of the nose.
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Repeat this procedure for the other nostril if advised to do so
by your doctor or pharmacist.
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Replace the lid on the bottle.
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Take care not to touch the tip of the bottle or dropper with
your fingers. If the dropper is separate don't put it down on any surface.
Other useful advice
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Some people find it easier to have someone else put their nose
drops in for them.
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If you are putting in nose drops for a child it may be easier
to lay them on their back across your lap, with their head hanging down.
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Some nose drops can give an unpleasant taste as they drain into
the back of the throat. A drink of water or other liquid will take this away.
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Do not share nose drops with other people.
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Decongestant nose drops should not be used for longer than a
week, as this can cause the nasal congestion to come back (rebound
congestion).
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EXPIRY: never use your nose drops after the expiry date as they
may be contaminated with dirt or bacteria. Follow the printed instructions
given with your drops. Write the date you open your nose drops on the bottle so
you know when to throw them away.
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STORAGE: store your nose drops in a cool, dry place.
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Always keep medicines out of the reach of children.
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If you miss a dose of your nose drops, take the dose as soon as
you remember, and then go on as before.
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Always use the nose drops according to the printed label or as
instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
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Nose drops are only intended for use in the nose and must not
be taken by mouth.
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Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you accidentally use more
than you were supposed to.
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Once you have finished the treatment course, carefully dispose of any
leftover drops, or return them to your pharmacist for disposal.
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Last updated 28.03.2007
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