Struggling with a clogged nose? Whether it’s from a cold, allergies, or sinusitis, nasal congestion can make breathing difficult and disrupt your daily routine. With so many medicines and remedies available—from decongestants to antihistamines to natural options—it’s important to know which one best suits your symptoms and health condition.
To help you make the right choice, we consulted Board-Certified Family Medicine Specialist Dr. Eron Tan. In this article, we’ll break down the common causes of nasal congestion, explain how different medications work, and guide you through safe options for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with underlying conditions.
Quick List - Top Medicine for Clogged Nose
Dr. Tan is a Family and Occupational Medicine doctor and college faculty member with expertise in clinical care, preventive medicine, and evidence-based practice. With a strong background in primary and secondary care, research, and community-oriented primary care, he simplifies complex health topics for readers. His experience in occupational health provides insights into workplace well-being and safety, ensuring health-related decisions are grounded in research and reliable medical knowledge.
David is a law graduate (LL.B) who has a sharp eye for details and a strong passion for helping others make smarter decisions. Since he joined mybest in 2020, he’s been working on buying guides that make it easier to find the best products—whether they’re everyday essentials or unique finds. Apart from his work at mybest, David has also written for Grotto Network, a digital platform from the University of Notre Dame, and has experience as a special educational needs assistant. These roles have helped him hone his ability to connect with people and make complex topics more relatable and easy to understand. His love for nature and moments of reflection keep him grounded, and this thoughtful perspective shines through in every article he writes for mybest.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Nasal congestion can stem from several causes, and identifying the right one is key to choosing the proper treatment.
Common causes of nasal congestion include:
Viral infections – such as the common cold or flu.
Allergic rhinitis – triggered by pollen, dust, pet dander, and other allergens.
Non-infectious conditions – like sinusitis.
Environmental irritants – including cigarette smoke, air pollution, and strong odors.
If you have underlying health conditions, particularly heart disease, hypertension, or diabetes, nasal decongestants might not be the best option. Decongestants like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure, making them unsuitable for those with these conditions. Always consult your doctor to find a safe option.
Topical decongestants, like oxymetazoline, can be an alternative but should still be used with caution. Saline sprays are a safer option and can be effective for mild to moderate congestion
Finding the right medicine for a clogged nose depends on the cause, whether it's a cold, allergies, or sinus issues.
The type of medicine you choose should match your specific symptoms. For example, decongestants are ideal for blocked noses, while antihistamines work better for sneezing or itchy eyes.
If your nasal congestion is due to a cold or sinusitis, oral decongestants like phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine can help. These medications work by shrinking the blood vessels in your nasal passages, which reduces swelling and helps clear your nose.
For adults, the typical dosage for phenylephrine is 10 mg every four hours as needed. However, it should not be used for more than seven days to prevent potential side effects, such as insomnia or increased blood pressure. Additionally, the maximum dosage should not exceed 60 mg in 24 hours.
If you're experiencing both nasal congestion and symptoms such as sneezing or a runny nose, consider using a combination medication that contains both a decongestant and an antihistamine. Antihistamines are effective in relieving sneezing and itchy eyes, which are often associated with allergies, while decongestants help clear a blocked nose.
However, avoid taking combination products if you only have one symptom. For example, if you’re just dealing with a clogged nose and no sneezing, there’s no need to take an antihistamine. Doing so may expose you to unwanted side effects like drowsiness or dry mouth.
If your nasal congestion is due to allergies, antihistamines can help ease symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. These medicines work by blocking histamines, which are chemicals the body releases in response to allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander.
Antihistamines come in two types. First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine, are effective but may cause drowsiness. Second-generation options like loratadine or cetirizine are less likely to make you sleepy. Depending on when you need relief, you can choose the one that fits your routine.
Overuse can lead to rebound congestion, a condition where the nasal passages become more congested once the medication wears off.
Some cold and allergy medications, especially first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness, making them less ideal for use during the day. If you need to stay alert for work, school, or errands, it’s best to go for non-drowsy options.
Second-generation antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine are less likely to make you sleepy. For congestion, oral decongestants without added sedatives can also provide relief without affecting your focus or energy levels.
Instead, use saline nasal sprays or drops to help clear the nasal passages. A bulb syringe can also help suction out mucus. Always consult with a pediatrician before using any new treatments.
Pregnant women should avoid oral decongestants like phenylephrine, especially in the first trimester, as it may reduce blood flow to the placenta and potentially affect fetal development. Breastfeeding mothers are also advised to steer clear of pseudoephedrine, which can decrease milk supply. To stay safe, always consult a healthcare provider before using any nasal medication during pregnancy or lactation.
While topical decongestants may be used short-term with medical guidance, saline-based options remain the safest choice. Isotonic saline sprays gently moisturize nasal passages, making them ideal for regular use, while hypertonic saline may provide extra relief by reducing swelling—but can sometimes cause irritation.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FDA Registered | Medicine Type | Key Ingredient | Non-Drowsy | Dosage | Best For | Form | Quantity | |||||
1 | Unilab NasoClear | ![]() | Get Quick Relief With a Nasal Spray That Won’t Make You Sleepy | Nasal Spray | Sodium Chloride | 6.5mg/mL | Fast, Targeted Relief、Daytime Use、Breastfeeding or Pregnant Women | Liquid | 30mL | |||
2 | TGP Cetizine | ![]() | Ease Allergy Symptoms With Non-Drowsy, Easy-to-Swallow Tablets | Antihistamine | Cetirizine Hydrochloride | 10mg | Allergies、Daytime Use | Tablet | 10 Tablets | |||
3 | Unilab Neozep Z+ Forte | ![]() | Feel Better Faster With a Decongestant and Antihistamine Combo | Decongestant and Antihistamine Combination | Phenylephrine Hydrochloride、Chlorphenamine Maleate | 10mg, 325mg | Nasal Congestion and Sneezing or Runny Nose | Tablet | 20 Tablets | |||
4 | Bayer Claritin | ![]() | Breathe Easy With All-Day Relief From Over 200 Different Allergens | Antihistamine | Loratadine | 10mg | Allergies、Daytime Use | Tablet | 5 Tablets | |||
5 | Bayer ClariClear | ![]() | Fast-Acting Nasal Spray for Up to 12 Hours of Congestion Relief | Nasal Spray | Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride | 500mcg/mL | Fast, Targeted Relief、Daytime Use | Liquid | 15mL | |||
6 | Unilab Decolgen Forte | ![]() | All-in-One Relief for Stuffy Nose and Other Cold Symptoms | Decongestant and Antihistamine Combination | Phenylephrine Hydrochloride、Chlorphenamine Maleate | 25mg, 2mg | Nasal Congestion and Sneezing or Runny Nose | Tablet | 20 Tablets | |||
7 | Unilab Disudrin | ![]() | Effective Cold Symptom Relief for Kids in Convenient Dropper Form | Decongestant and Antihistamine Combination | Phenylephrine Hydrochloride、Chlorphenamine Maleate | 2.5mg/mL, 0.5mg/mL | Children | Liquid | 10mL | |||
8 | Unilab Allerta | ![]() | Relieves Nasal Congestion From Allergies in Just 15 Minutes | Antihistamine | Loratadine | 10mg | Allergies、Daytime Use | Tablet | 10 Tablets | |||
9 | Orange and Peach Saline Spray | ![]() | Gently Clears Baby’s Nose With Natural Saline | Nasal Spray | Sodium Chloride | unknown | Infants and Toddlers | Liquid | 12mL | |||
10 | TGP Breathe Ezy | ![]() | Instant Relief from Nasal Congestion With Spray and Drops Options | Nasal Spray、Nasal Drops | Sodium Chloride | 6.5mg/mL | Fast, Targeted Relief、Daytime Use、Breastfeeding or Pregnant Women | Liquid | 60mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users say it’s easy to bring along thanks to its compact size, making it great for travel or daily errands. Many find it effective in clearing their nose, especially those with sinus problems. It’s also praised for being non-drowsy, so it won’t make you feel sleepy after using it.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Nasal Spray |
Key Ingredient | Sodium Chloride |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 6.5mg/mL |
Best For | Fast, Targeted Relief、Daytime Use、Breastfeeding or Pregnant Women |
Form | Liquid |
Quantity | 30mL |
Reviews mention:
Reviewers highlight how easy the tablets are to take and how well they work for allergic rhinitis. A lot of users also find it effective for seasonal allergies, like pollen and dust. It’s often noted for taking effect quickly without causing drowsiness.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Antihistamine |
Key Ingredient | Cetirizine Hydrochloride |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 10mg |
Best For | Allergies、Daytime Use |
Form | Tablet |
Quantity | 10 Tablets |
Reviews mention:
Buyers appreciate how it effectively clears clogged nasal passages and makes breathing easier. Plus, customers find it great for relieving fever and providing complete relief from cold symptoms. This medicine is also trusted by many for its consistent results and effectiveness.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Decongestant and Antihistamine Combination |
Key Ingredient | Phenylephrine Hydrochloride、Chlorphenamine Maleate |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 10mg, 325mg |
Best For | Nasal Congestion and Sneezing or Runny Nose |
Form | Tablet |
Quantity | 20 Tablets |
Reviews mention:
Customers love the convenient packaging, especially the added bonus of extra tablets. The non-drowsy formula is perfect for all-day use, allowing users to stay active without feeling tired. It’s also frequently recommended for its effectiveness in relieving a range of allergy symptoms.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Antihistamine |
Key Ingredient | Loratadine |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 10mg |
Best For | Allergies、Daytime Use |
Form | Tablet |
Quantity | 5 Tablets |
Reviews mention:
Many users mention how quickly it opens up their nasal passages, especially during allergy flare-ups. It’s also noted for being easy to use and handy to keep around. Several say they felt relief from clogged nostrils almost immediately after spraying.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Nasal Spray |
Key Ingredient | Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 500mcg/mL |
Best For | Fast, Targeted Relief、Daytime Use |
Form | Liquid |
Quantity | 15mL |
Features and benefits:
Most buyers turn to this medicine during cold and flu season for its reliable symptom relief. It’s known for quickly easing congestion and helping clear stuffy noses. People also find it helpful for tackling several symptoms in one go, making it a go-to for feeling better fast.
FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Decongestant and Antihistamine Combination |
Key Ingredient | Phenylephrine Hydrochloride、Chlorphenamine Maleate |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 25mg, 2mg |
Best For | Nasal Congestion and Sneezing or Runny Nose |
Form | Tablet |
Quantity | 20 Tablets |
Reviews mention:
Many parents trust Disudrin for its effective relief of cold symptoms and its ability to help children breathe more easily. It’s recommended for children of all ages due to its gentle and fast-acting formula. Parents appreciate the convenience of the dropper form and how quickly it works to provide relief.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Decongestant and Antihistamine Combination |
Key Ingredient | Phenylephrine Hydrochloride、Chlorphenamine Maleate |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 2.5mg/mL, 0.5mg/mL |
Best For | Children |
Form | Liquid |
Quantity | 10mL |
Reviews mention:
Customers love how it doesn't cause drowsiness while still providing effective allergy relief. The fast-acting formula stands out, with many noticing results within minutes. It's also praised for being reliable in easing allergy symptoms without the side effects of other medications.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Antihistamine |
Key Ingredient | Loratadine |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 10mg |
Best For | Allergies、Daytime Use |
Form | Tablet |
Quantity | 10 Tablets |
Reviews mention:
Parents love how safe and easy it is to use, especially for babies with on-and-off colds. The included instructions make it even more convenient. Many find it a must-have for allergy season or when the weather changes.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Nasal Spray |
Key Ingredient | Sodium Chloride |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | unknown |
Best For | Infants and Toddlers |
Form | Liquid |
Quantity | 12mL |
Reviews mention:
Many users say it’s soothing and works well to ease nasal stuffiness. It’s described as refreshing and especially helpful during colds or allergy flare-ups. Shoppers also trust it as a go-to option from a reliable generic brand.FDA Registered | |
---|---|
Medicine Type | Nasal Spray、Nasal Drops |
Key Ingredient | Sodium Chloride |
Non-Drowsy | |
Dosage | 6.5mg/mL |
Best For | Fast, Targeted Relief、Daytime Use、Breastfeeding or Pregnant Women |
Form | Liquid |
Quantity | 60mL |
For a stuffy nose and sore throat, an oral decongestant (like phenylephrine) combined with a pain reliever or throat lozenge can help. If the symptoms are due to allergies, an antihistamine may also be beneficial.
Looking for relief beyond nasal congestion? Check out our other guides to help you manage your symptoms more effectively.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Unilab|NasoClear
No. 2: TGP|Cetizine
No. 3: Unilab|Neozep Z+ Forte
No. 4: Bayer|Claritin
No. 5: Bayer|ClariClear
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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