How long can a nasal spray or medicine for rhinitis be stored after opening?

Nasal sprays for rhinitis can generally be stored for about 1 month after opening. There are various types of nasal medications clinically, including nasal glucocorticoid drugs, anti-infective drugs, antihistamines, and decongestants. Due to their different formulations and specifications, the storage duration after opening varies.

1. Nasal Glucocorticoid Drugs

These include budesonide nasal spray, fluticasone propionate nasal spray, and mometasone furoate nasal spray. As nasal sprays, they can generally be stored for about 1 month after opening. Prolonged storage after opening is not recommended to avoid bacterial resistance.

2. Anti-Infective Drugs

Examples are amoxicillin capsules and cefixime tablets, which can usually be stored for around 7 days after opening. However, extended storage may lead to loss of potency, affecting treatment outcomes.

3. Antihistamines

Such as loratadine tablets and cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, which typically have a shelf life of about 1 week after opening. Prolonged storage may cause volatilization of active ingredients, reducing efficacy.

4. Decongestants

For instance, furazolidone nasal drops and xylometazoline hydrochloride nasal spray, which can usually be stored for 3-5 days after opening. Prolonged storage may result in potency loss and exacerbate nasal mucosa dryness.

It is advisable to use nasal medications as soon as possible after opening to maintain their efficacy. Patients with rhinitis can also rinse their nasal cavities with saline solution to keep them clean and moist, helping alleviate symptoms like nasal congestion and rhinorrhea. Additionally, avoid spicy and irritating foods like hot pot and fried snacks, as they may irritate the nasal cavity and exacerbate symptoms.