Summary: Upper respiratory tract infections are very common, especially in children, and self-medication is popular. One of the commonly used therapies for colds are drugs administered into the nose. Short-term nasal decongestants help to relieve nasal obstruction. They are intended for use only for a few days and in this situation can provide relief by relieving nasal congestion in patients with acute inflammation. Patients must be informed that chronic use is not recommended due to the risk of drug-induced rhinitis. When choosing a drug for topical nasal administration for short-term, emergency use during the period of infection, it is worth starting with the registration restrictions, indications and contraindications of the preparations under consideration. Another important point is to check the composition to avoid products containing preservatives, such as benzalkonium chloride. It will be advantageous to choose a dispenser that offers a small volume of solution administered, combined with high reproducibility, which avoids overdose and increases the safety of treatment.