- Zicam is an over-the-counter nasal spray primarily intended for temporary relief from cold symptoms, though some use it for allergy-related congestion relief.
- Zicam’s main active ingredient is oxymetazoline and it contains other inactive ingredients.
- Allermi Super Spray offers comprehensive allergy management with up to 4 FDA-approved, clinically-proven active ingredients.
Allergies can be a constant source of discomfort, which causes symptoms like a stuffy nose and sinus pressure that prompt allergy sufferers to look for relief. Many turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and nasal sprays are a popular option.
Among these options, you might have heard of Zicam and wondered if it could help with your symptoms. However, not all nasal sprays are the same, so it’s important to know what’s in them and how well they work for you.
In this article, we will look at whether Zicam really helps with allergies, explain what it contains, and compare it to a possible alternative for managing your symptoms.
What is Zicam?
Zicam is an OTC nasal spray designed primarily for the relief of cold symptoms and, in some cases, allergy relief. Zicam contains the active ingredient oxymetazoline hydrochloride, which is a nasal decongestant, and a variety of inactive ingredients like aloe barbadensis gel, glycerin, and purified water.
Aside from their nasal spray, Zicam offers a range of other products designed to help with cold and congestion symptoms, including tablets, lozenges, and fruit drops.
Does Zicam Really Work for Allergies?
Zicam's effectiveness for allergies is a topic of debate. While Zicam is primarily marketed for cold relief, some users report that certain formulations help alleviate allergy symptoms, particularly those related to nasal congestion.
For instance, its nasal spray contains aloe barbadensis (aloe vera), which has properties that may help reduce allergy symptoms. One paper also noted that aloe tincture (a concentrated aloe solution) has a long history of being used to treat infections in the nose and throat areas [*]. However, in some tree pollen allergic individuals, it could worsen allergies.
Therefore, scientific evidence specifically supporting Zicam for allergy relief is limited.
The only ingredient in some Zicam products that is proven to help with nasal congestion symptoms is oxymetazoline. Oxymetazoline is a popular decongestant that temporarily relieves stuffy or blocked noses caused by allergies, colds, hay fever, or sinus problems. It works by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nose to make it easier to breathe [*].
Moreover, user experiences can vary widely — some individuals find Zicam helpful, while others see little to no benefit. For those considering Zicam for allergies, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare professional to explore more established allergy treatments, such as antihistamines or nasal sprays, that have more robust clinical support.
Related: How Long Does It Take for Allergy Medicine to Work?
Zicam Safety & Precautions
Zicam nasal spray can be used by adults and children ages 6 to 12 (under adult supervision). However, it is advised to consult a doctor before using it, especially if there is a history of heart disease, thyroid conditions, diabetes, enlarged prostate, or high blood pressure.
Moreover, the spray should be used only as directed and for no longer than 3 days, as extended use may lead to worsened or recurring nasal congestion.
This limitation on use is due to oxymetazoline, the active ingredient in Zicam nasal spray. Oxymetazoline relieves stuffy noses by shrinking blood vessels in the nasal passages, but if used too often or for too long, it can cause “rebound congestion,” where the stuffiness becomes worse [*].
What’s the Best Alternative to Zicam for Allergies?
We believe that Allermi Super Spray is the best alternative to Zicam for treating allergies. It is designed to tackle four main allergy symptoms: nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and inflammation. What makes Allermi special is that it can adjust its ingredients to fit each person's specific symptoms and how severe they are. In addition, the Allermi nasal sprays microdose the amount of oxymetazoline used, and combine it with an anti-inflammatory which has been shown to prevent rebound nasal congestion [*].
Unlike other treatments, Allermi does not lead to less effective relief or cause unwanted side effects. It combines 3 to 4 proven medications, like an antihistamine and decongestant, in the right amounts for each person, which helps target multiple symptoms safely and effectively.
The Bottom Line
While Zicam may provide some relief for allergy symptoms, its effectiveness is debated, and scientific support is limited. Users may experience varying results, and the risk of rebound congestion adds a layer of concern for prolonged use.
If you’re looking for a more effective, personalized option for allergy relief, Allermi Super Spray is a strong choice. It targets multiple symptoms at once and provides the added benefit of allergist consultations and unlimited access to a medical team.
Remember that prioritizing safety and efficacy is essential in finding the best solution for managing allergies effectively!
References:
- Ferrara, L., Naviglio, D., & Caruso, A. A. (2012). Cytological Aspects on the Effects of a Nasal Spray Consisting of Standardized Extract of Citrus Lemon and Essential Oils in Allergic Rhinopathy. ISRN Pharmaceutics, 2012, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.5402/2012/404606
- Oxymetazoline (nasal route). (2024, October 1). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/oxymetazoline-nasal-route/description/drg-20067830
- Rhinitis Medicamentosa. (2024b, October 4). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23393-rhinitis-medicamentosa
- Vaidyanathan S, Williamson P, Clearie K, Khan F, Lipworth B. Fluticasone reverses oxymetazoline-induced tachyphylaxis of response and rebound congestion. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. 2010;182(1):19-24. doi:10.1164/rccm.200911-1701oc
