How to Use Nose Drops

  • Blow your nose gently.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Check the dropper tip to make sure that it is not chipped or cracked.
  • Avoid touching the dropper tip against your nose or anything else--the dropper must be kept clean.
  • Tilt your head as far back as possible, or lie down on your back on a flat surface (such as a bed) and hang your head over the edge.
  • Place the correct number of drops into your nose.
  • Bend your head forward toward your knees and gently move it left and right.
  • Remain in this position for a few minutes.
  • Place the dropper back in the bottle right away. Do not rinse the dropper.
  • Wash your hands to remove any medication.

Adapted, with permission, from the Michigan Pharmacists Association'sPatient Education Program.

Use nose drops only as long as directed

AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.

Last Reviewed: September 1, 2010.