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Vicks First Defence was never sold in US pharmacies, and now even in Europe you can’t find it. So what happened? And more importantly, what can you use now?
If you’ve searched for Vicks First Defence online, here’s the short version. This nasal spray vanished from shelves. Here’s what you need to know about how it was used and what to use instead.
What Is Vicks First Defence?
Vicks First Defence was a nasal spray. Vicks’s Australian website describes it as “a medical device that is clinically proven to help you in the fight against common cold viruses.”
How Was Vicks First Defence Used?
The product label lists zinc acetate among its ingredients. Retailer listings that quote the label give these directions:
- Insert the nozzle into your nostril, aiming the nozzle outwards in the direction of your ear.
- Fully depress the pump 2 or 3 times with firm even strokes and avoid inhaling deeply.
- Repeat for the other nostril.
- Use it within the first 24-36 hours after feeling the first signs of a cold, for example a sore throat, blocked nose or sneezing.
The same listings say it can be used up to 4 times a day.
Alternatives to Vicks First Defence
Here is what health sources say about some of the options:
| Option | What the sources say |
|---|---|
| Saline nasal spray or drops | The CDC lists saline nasal spray or drops among the things to use for common cold symptoms. A 2010 Cochrane review of saline nasal irrigation reported that most results showed no difference between nasal saline treatment and control, with limited evidence of benefit in adults. |
| Carrageenan nasal sprays (e.g., Algovir) | In a trial in children, an iota-carrageenan spray did not alleviate symptoms but significantly reduced viral load in nasal secretions (Fazekas 2012). In another trial, symptoms eased 2.1 days faster in the carrageenan group among patients with laboratory-confirmed infection who followed the protocol, but the prespecified primary endpoint was not met (Ludwig 2013). |
| Oxymetazoline nasal spray | MedlinePlus says it works by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages and should not be used for longer than 3 days, because congestion may get worse or may improve but come back. The NHS says decongestant nasal sprays and drops should not be used for more than 5 days at a time. |
| Zinc | A 2013 Cochrane review found that zinc administered within 24 hours of onset of symptoms reduces the duration of common cold symptoms in healthy people, with some caution needed because of the heterogeneity of the data. With zinc lozenges, the likely benefit has to be balanced against side effects, notably a bad taste and nausea. |
| Clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer | The CDC lists a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer among the things to use for common cold symptoms. |
One carrageenan-based spray you can still find online is Algovir, marketed by the German company Hermes Arzneimittel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still buy Vicks First Defence anywhere?
You may find old stock on eBay or some international online pharmacies. Check the expiry date printed on the pack before using any nasal spray.
What are the alternatives to Vicks First Defence?
One carrageenan-based spray is Algovir, marketed by the German company Hermes Arzneimittel. The CDC also lists saline nasal spray or drops, and a 2013 Cochrane review found that zinc administered within 24 hours of onset of symptoms reduces the duration of common cold symptoms in healthy people, though the review noted that some caution is needed because of the heterogeneity of the data.
How long can I use a decongestant nasal spray?
MedlinePlus says not to use oxymetazoline nasal spray for longer than 3 days, because congestion may get worse or may improve but come back. The NHS says decongestant nasal sprays and drops should not be used for more than 5 days at a time. Always follow the label instructions and consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your doctor or a pharmacist before starting any new supplement or treatment. Individual results vary, and nothing here constitutes medical advice.
