Vicks Sinex is an over-the-counter decongestant in nasal spray form. You can use it to relieve nasal congestion due to colds, sinus problems or allergies. The spray with four-hour effects contains the active ingredient phenylephrine hydrochloride, and the 12-hour spray contains oxymetazoline. These medications cause the blood vessels in the nose and sinuses to contract and narrow, which reduces swelling and congestion and decreases mucus production. You can expect similar side effects with either version of Vicks Sinex.
Nose, Mouth and Throat Effects
Some relatively minor side effects are associated with Vicks Sinex, and they may dissipate after your body adjusts to the medicine, according to MayoClinic.com. These effects may include burning or stinging sensations inside your nose, nasal dryness, mouth and throat dryness, nasal irritation, an increase in nasal discharge, sneezing and headache.
Worsening Congestion
Using Vicks Sinex continuously for more than a week can cause a rebound effect when you do stop using it, according to Netdoctor. Although the congestion problem may clear up while using the medicine, congestion can return worse than it was before if you use the product for too long. Vicks Sinex can also become less effective if you use it more often or longer than directed.
Systemic Side Effects
Vicks Sinex is unlikely to be absorbed into the bloodstream where it can lead to systemic side effects, according to Netdoctor. Too much medicine being absorbed into the body is more likely in children, and Drugs.com advises against using Vicks Sinex with a child younger than 4 years old. Side effects resulting from absorption can include dizziness, headache, increased perspiration, insomnia, nervousness, pale skin or trembling. The Physicians' Desktop Reference recommends consulting a physician immediately about any more serious side effects, including tingling sensations in the hands or feet, chest pain, difficulty breathing and a rapid, pounding or irregular heartbeat.
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