How To Use Nasal Drops
- Article last reviewed 02 March 2026
- 4 mins read
What is this medication for?
A nasal drop is a product that is used to deliver medication into the nose. It is often used for medications that help with a blocked nose.
How should I take or use this medication?
Nasal Drops - Step 1
Read the instructions on the label.
Record the date opened on the nasal drop bottle.
Nasal Drops - Step 2
Blow your nose gently.
Nasal Drops - Step 3
Wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them before you apply the nose drop.
Nasal Drops - Step 4
Gently shake the bottle and remove the cap. Check that the dropper tip is not chipped or cracked, if using a glass dropper.
Nasal Drops - Step 5
Sit with your head tilted backwards, as far as it is comfortable. You can also choose to lie down, with a pillow under the shoulder, so that your head is tipped backwards.
Nasal Drops - Step 6
- Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the nostril.
- When applying the nose drops, avoid letting the dropper touch any part of your nose. Repeat with the other nostril as needed.
Nasal Drops - Step 7
- Tilt your head gently from side to side for a few minutes to spread the nose drops throughout the nose.
- Replace the dropper back into the bottle right after use and wash your hands. Do not rinse the dropper.
This video will teach you how to use a nasal drop.
How to store the medication/medical device?
Store the nasal drop in a cool and dry place away from sunlight, heat and moisture.
How do I throw away this medication safely?
Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.
Disclaimer
Please take note that the above is not a complete list of all possible side-effects. If you have any concerns about your medication or if you have other side-effects that you think are caused by this medication, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (NHG Health, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.
Contributed By
- Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore
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