12 hour nasal sprays are small pumps that are commonly used to administer medicine.

There are many uses of 12 hour nasal sprays in today's society as they have become such a common thing. They are used to spray medicine into the nose and clearing congestion in the nasal passage in case of allergies or colds. The sprays which contain antihistamines are used mainly for allergies brought about by dust and pollen. Ailments like sinus are treated using steroids and decongestant sprays while irritation and dryness of the nasal cavity is eased using saline sprays. In case of swelling and inflammation, corticosteroid sprays are used as they are anti-inflammatory.

One of the 12 hour nasal sprays in the market is Allerest's oxymetazoline nasal which is a decongestant that works through constriction of blood vessels in the nose that cause them to drain any congestion. It is used to treat congestions linked to hay fever, sinuses, irritation, common cold and allergies. This nasal spray can be used for other reasons besides the stated decongestion purposes.

Before using the 12 hour nasal sprays, consumers are advised to inform their doctors of any of the following conditions: high blood pressures, thyroid conditions, heart conditions, diabetes, liver, or kidney disease, glaucoma and prostate disease so that they can be given the suitable dosage for these conditions. Women who are pregnant should also inform their doctors before taking the medicine while those who have taken any inhibitors of monoamine oxidase form should not use this nasal sprays at all as this may have serious counteractive effects on the user.

As much as they serve various useful purposes, the 12 hour nasal sprays should not be used for long and caution must be taken while using them considering that the nasal cavity is a very sensitive area. Overusing the nasal sprays can cause stinging and burning sensations on the nasal cavities as well as running nose and excessive mucus. This condition is often referred to as Rhinitis medicamentosa. Prolonged use of these nasal sprays can also harm the mucous membrane. Patients are therefore advised to avoid using the nasal sprays for a period of 5 days continuously as this is considered prolonged usage.

It is important to note that the nasal sprays have side effects which apart from the burning and stinging effects on prolonged usage may include rebound congestion on the user. This is estimated to occur 3 days after use of the spray. The spray may also leave a bad after taste if sprayed in the mouth and this should be avoided.