Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray is a drug-free medical device containing Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), Succinic Acid, and Disodium Succinate. It is used at the first signs of a cold, or after exposure to cold viruses, to target the back of the nose and top of the throat where cold viruses take hold. It is suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over, with dosing based on age group. Common effects include temporary nasal discomfort, and the spray should not be used for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

What is Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray

Vicks First Defence is a nasal spray classed as a medical device. It is designed to be used at the first signs of a cold, or after exposure to cold viruses, to target the back of the nose and top of the throat where cold viruses take hold.

Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray uses

• Helping to stop a cold developing when used at the first signs of symptoms such as a tickle at the back of the throat, sore throat, sneezing, or a blocked nose
• Use after exposure to cold viruses to help reduce the risk of a full-blown cold developing

Benefits of Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray

• Helps reduce the risk of a common cold developing fully when used at the first signs of symptoms.
• Helps trap cold viruses at the back of the nose, where infection often begins.
• Helps inactivate trapped viruses, reducing their ability to multiply.
• Supports the body's natural process of removing cold viruses from the nose.
• May help reduce the severity of cold symptoms when used early.
• Can also be started after exposure to cold viruses, before symptoms become established.

How Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray works

The spray forms a gel-like layer in the nose that traps and neutralises cold viruses, stopping them from multiplying and spreading. The body then naturally clears the trapped viruses by blowing the nose or swallowing.

Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray dosage

Start using at the first signs of a cold, such as a tickle at the back of the throat, scratchy throat, or sneezing, before the cold fully develops, or when exposed to cold viruses. This spray is suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over only.

Without tilting your head, insert the nozzle into the nostril and angle it outward toward the ear. Avoid inhaling deeply while spraying. Wipe the nozzle clean after use and replace the protective cap. Leave a gap between applications, with no more than a set number of uses in 24 hours. Continue using for a couple of days after symptoms subside.

Before first use, remove the protective cap and prime the pump into a tissue by pressing it firmly several times while holding the bottle upright. If using another nasal spray or decongestant, leave a gap of at least one hour between different nasal sprays.

Available forms and strengths

• Nasal spray

Side effects of Vicks First Defence Nasal Spray

Common

• Increased nasal discharge (runny nose)
• Temporary stinging or burning sensation in the nose
• Sneezing
• Nasal discomfort

Serious

• Nosebleeds (heavy or slight)
• Temporary headache, or pain in the nose, eye, ear, or neck
• Persistent nasal irritation or dryness

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use this product if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
• This product is not suitable for children under 12 years old.
• Do not use if you have had recent nasal surgery or injury, or if you suffer from severe nasal congestion that does not respond to sprays.
• Do not use for longer than 7 days without medical advice.
• Read the patient information leaflet before use.
• Not recommended during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• Not recommended during breastfeeding unless advised by a healthcare professional.
• This spray does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery, and it does not cause drowsiness.

Storage

• Store at room temperature, following the specific product label.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from excessive heat.
• Protect from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed and upright when not in use.
• Do not freeze and avoid storing in very hot or humid areas.
• Keep out of reach and sight of children.

When to see a doctor

• Speak to a healthcare professional if your cold symptoms last longer than 7 days.
• Speak to a healthcare professional if you experience nosebleeds or persistent nasal irritation.
• Speak to a healthcare professional if you have underlying health conditions such as asthma or sinusitis.
• Speak to a healthcare professional if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and are unsure whether to use this product.
• If the stinging or discomfort sensation persists, stop using the product.

Alternatives

• Otrivine Nasal Spray
• NeilMed Nasal Mist
• Saline Nasal Spray
• Sterimar Nasal Spray