Key takeaways
Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) and oxymetazoline (Afrin) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve nasal and sinus congestion, but they have some key differences. Pseudoephedrine is taken orally and works by squeezing the blood vessels around your nose and sinuses, which helps clear congestion. It comes in immediate-release and extended-release forms, with dosing varying by age and formulation. On the other hand, oxymetazoline is a nasal spray that works by attaching to receptors in your nose to tighten blood vessels, providing quick relief. However, you should not use oxymetazoline for more than three days in a row due to the risk of rebound congestion. Pseudoephedrine can cause side effects like anxiety and difficulty sleeping, while oxymetazoline might cause mild burning or stinging in the nose. Both medications are not recommended during pregnancy, and you should consult your healthcare provider if you have high blood pressure or other medical conditions before using them.
