Altamist (nasal)

Generic name: sodium chloride (nasal) [ SOE-dee-um-KLOR-ide ]
Brand names: Altamist, Ayr Baby Saline, Ayr Saline Nasal, Ayr Saline Nasal Mist, Ayr Saline Nasal No-Drip Spray, ... show all 27 brands Ayr Sinus Rinse Kit, Ayr Sinus Rinse Kit Refill, Deep Sea Nasal Spray, Little Noses, Nasalcare Rinse Starter Kit, NeilMed NasoGEL, NeilMed Sinus Rinse Hypertonic Packets, NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit, NeilMed Sinus Rinse Packets, NeilMed Sinus Rinse Pediatric Kit, NeilMed Sinus Rinse Pediatric Packets, NeilMed Sinus Rinse Small Kit, Ocean, Ocean Complete, Ocean Kids, Rhinaris Mist, Saline Mist, SaltAire, Sea Soft, Simply Saline, Afrin Saline nasal, ENTsol nasal
Drug class: Nasal lubricants and irrigations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 30, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Altamist nasal?

There are many brands and forms of sodium chloride nasal available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.

Altamist (for use in the nose) is used to treat stuffy nose, post-nasal drip, dryness inside your nose and nasal passages, or nasal irritation caused by colds, flu, allergies, or pollutants.

This product contains a purified gentle salt solution (also called saline). It does not contain any active drug or medicine.

Altamist may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Altamist nasal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if you have questions.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this product is safe to use if you have medical conditions or allergies.

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I use Altamist nasal?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Always follow directions on the product label about giving this product to a child.

Do not take by mouth. Nasal products are for use only in the nose.

Altamist is available in many different forms such as a spray, gel, swab, or powder to be mixed with water and used as a nasal rinse.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with the product you use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

You may need to gently blow your nose before using this product.

If you have inserted the spray bottle tip inside your nose, rinse the tip with hot water and dry with a clean tissue after use.

Some nasal sprays bottles will deliver the product as a spray when used with the bottle upright or as a drop when you turn the bottle upside down.

If directed on the product label, wipe the tip of the bottle or nozzle with a clean tissue after each use.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Altamist does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

Follow all directions on the label about when to replace Altamist. You may need to throw away the container after a certain amount of time has passed, even if some of the product is still left inside.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

If your nasal product comes in a spray canister, keep the can away from open flame or high heat. The canister may explode if it gets too hot. Do not puncture or burn an empty nasal spray canister.

Related/similar drugs

epinephrine topical, pseudoephedrine, sodium chloride nasal, phenylephrine nasal, Afrin

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Altamist nasal is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of sodium chloride nasal is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the product.

What should I avoid while using Altamist nasal?

Avoid getting Altamist in your eyes.

Avoid sharing nasal products with other people. Sharing a nasal spray container or applicator that is inserted into the nose can allow infections or disease to pass from one person to another.

What other drugs will affect Altamist nasal?

Since Altamist does not contain an active medicine, it is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.02.