What is mometasone nasal spray. How does mometasone nasal spray work. Who can use mometasone nasal spray. What are the key facts about mometasone nasal spray. How to use mometasone nasal spray properly. What are the common side effects of mometasone nasal spray. When should you consult a doctor about using mometasone nasal spray.

Understanding Mometasone Nasal Spray: A Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

Mometasone nasal spray is a corticosteroid medication used to treat various nasal conditions, primarily allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps. As a steroid-based treatment, it works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, providing relief from symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and runny nose.

This medication is available by prescription for both adults and children, and in some countries, it can be purchased over-the-counter for treating allergic rhinitis symptoms. Mometasone is part of a broader family of corticosteroid medications, which are synthetic versions of hormones naturally produced by the body.

Key Features of Mometasone Nasal Spray

• Treats cold-like symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis
• Effective in managing nasal polyps in adults
• Available as a prescription medication for all ages
• Can be purchased over-the-counter for adults in some countries
• Requires regular use for optimal effectiveness

The Science Behind Mometasone: How It Combats Nasal Inflammation

Mometasone belongs to the corticosteroid class of medications, which are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the nasal passages, mometasone works by suppressing the body’s inflammatory response, thereby reducing swelling and irritation in the nasal tissues.

This reduction in inflammation leads to several beneficial effects:

1. Decreased nasal congestion
2. Reduced mucus production
3. Alleviation of sneezing and itching
4. Improved breathing through the nose

Is mometasone the same as anabolic steroids? No, mometasone and other corticosteroids are entirely different from anabolic steroids. While both are synthetic hormones, corticosteroids like mometasone are designed to mimic the anti-inflammatory effects of cortisol, a hormone naturally produced by the adrenal glands. Anabolic steroids, on the other hand, are synthetic substances related to testosterone and are used to promote muscle growth and enhance athletic performance.

Who Can Benefit from Mometasone Nasal Spray?

Mometasone nasal spray is suitable for a wide range of individuals suffering from nasal conditions. However, it’s essential to understand who can use this medication safely and effectively.

Suitable Candidates for Mometasone Nasal Spray

• Adults with allergic rhinitis or nasal polyps
• Children aged 3 years and older with allergic rhinitis
• Individuals with persistent hay fever symptoms

Are there any contraindications for using mometasone nasal spray? Yes, certain individuals should avoid using mometasone nasal spray or use it only under close medical supervision. These include:

• People with allergies to mometasone or other steroid medications
• Individuals who have recently undergone nasal surgery
• Those with active nasal infections
• Pregnant women or those trying to conceive (unless advised by a doctor)
• People with a history of tuberculosis
• Individuals with glaucoma or cataracts

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting mometasone nasal spray, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Proper Usage and Dosage Guidelines for Mometasone Nasal Spray

To maximize the benefits of mometasone nasal spray while minimizing potential side effects, it’s essential to use the medication correctly and follow the prescribed dosage.

Standard Dosage Recommendations

• For allergic rhinitis: 1-2 sprays in each nostril once daily
• For nasal polyps: 1-2 sprays in each nostril once or twice daily

How should you properly administer mometasone nasal spray? Follow these steps for optimal application:

1. Gently shake the bottle and remove the cap
2. Blow your nose to clear the nasal passages
3. Close one nostril with your finger
4. Tilt your head slightly forward and insert the nozzle into the other nostril
5. Breathe in slowly through your nose while pressing down on the pump to release the spray
6. Breathe out through your mouth
7. Repeat the process for the other nostril if needed
8. Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap

Remember that consistency is key when using mometasone nasal spray. Regular use as prescribed by your healthcare provider is necessary for the medication to be effective in managing your symptoms.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions When Using Mometasone Nasal Spray

While mometasone nasal spray is generally well-tolerated, like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential effects and taking necessary precautions can help ensure safe and effective use of the medication.

Common Side Effects

• Unpleasant taste or smell
• Dry or irritated nose or throat
• Mild nosebleeds
• Headache

These side effects are typically mild and often resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Can mometasone nasal spray cause serious side effects? While rare, more serious side effects can occur, especially with long-term use or at high doses. These may include:

• Changes in vision
• Severe or frequent nosebleeds
• Signs of nasal infection (such as pain, fever, or persistent nasal discharge)
• Slowed growth in children (with long-term use)

If you experience any of these more severe side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

Precautions and Special Considerations

To ensure safe use of mometasone nasal spray, keep the following precautions in mind:

• Inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including other steroid treatments
• If prescribed high doses, you may need to carry a steroid emergency card
• Avoid spraying directly onto the nasal septum to reduce the risk of perforation
• Regular check-ups may be necessary for long-term users, especially children
• Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your healthcare provider

Comparing Mometasone to Other Nasal Sprays: Benefits and Differences

Mometasone is one of several nasal sprays available for treating allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps. Understanding how it compares to other options can help you and your healthcare provider make an informed decision about your treatment.

Mometasone vs. Other Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays

Mometasone belongs to the same class of medications as fluticasone, budesonide, and triamcinolone. While these medications work similarly, there are some differences:

• Potency: Mometasone is considered one of the more potent options, potentially allowing for lower doses
• Onset of action: Mometasone may provide relief more quickly than some other corticosteroid sprays
• Duration of effect: The effects of mometasone can last up to 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing in many cases

How does mometasone compare to antihistamine nasal sprays? While both types of sprays can be effective for allergic rhinitis, they work differently:

• Mechanism of action: Mometasone reduces inflammation, while antihistamines block the effects of histamine
• Scope of treatment: Corticosteroids like mometasone can address a broader range of allergy symptoms
• Onset and duration: Antihistamine sprays may work more quickly but often require more frequent dosing

Your healthcare provider can help determine which type of nasal spray is most appropriate for your specific condition and symptoms.

Long-Term Use of Mometasone Nasal Spray: Efficacy and Safety Considerations

For many individuals with chronic nasal conditions, long-term use of mometasone nasal spray may be necessary to manage symptoms effectively. Understanding the long-term efficacy and safety profile of this medication is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike.

Efficacy in Long-Term Management

Research has shown that mometasone nasal spray can maintain its effectiveness when used over extended periods. Long-term benefits include:

• Sustained reduction in nasal inflammation
• Improved quality of life for individuals with chronic allergic rhinitis
• Potential reduction in the size of nasal polyps over time
• Decreased need for more invasive treatments in some cases

Is there a risk of developing tolerance to mometasone with long-term use? Unlike some medications, corticosteroid nasal sprays like mometasone do not typically lead to tolerance. This means that the medication can continue to be effective without requiring increasing doses over time.

Safety Considerations for Long-Term Use

While mometasone nasal spray is generally considered safe for long-term use, certain precautions should be taken:

• Regular monitoring: Patients on long-term therapy should have periodic check-ups to assess for any potential side effects
• Growth monitoring in children: Long-term use in children may affect growth rates, necessitating regular height measurements
• Nasal examination: Periodic examination of the nasal passages can help detect any changes or irritation
• Bone density consideration: While less of a concern with nasal sprays, very high doses or long-term use may potentially affect bone density in some individuals

Your healthcare provider can help balance the benefits of long-term mometasone use against any potential risks, adjusting your treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal health outcomes.

Mometasone Nasal Spray in Special Populations: Children, Elderly, and Pregnant Women

While mometasone nasal spray is widely used, its application in special populations requires careful consideration. Understanding how this medication affects different groups can help ensure safe and effective use across various demographics.

Mometasone Use in Children

Mometasone nasal spray is approved for use in children aged 3 years and older for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. However, special considerations apply:

• Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on the child’s age and size
• Growth should be monitored regularly in children using mometasone long-term
• Parents should be educated on proper administration techniques to ensure correct usage

Are there any specific concerns for adolescents using mometasone nasal spray? Adolescents may be at a slightly increased risk of certain side effects, such as nosebleeds or headaches. Additionally, the impact on growth should be closely monitored during this crucial developmental period.

Mometasone in the Elderly Population

Older adults can generally use mometasone nasal spray safely, but certain factors should be considered:

• Increased risk of side effects due to changes in metabolism and drug clearance
• Potential interactions with other medications commonly used by older adults
• Careful monitoring for signs of adrenal suppression, especially if using other steroid medications

Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of mometasone nasal spray during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established. Current guidelines suggest:

• Use during pregnancy should be limited to situations where the potential benefits outweigh the risks
• If used during breastfeeding, caution is advised, and the infant should be monitored for any adverse effects
• Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals considering mometasone use

Can alternative treatments be considered for pregnant women with severe allergic rhinitis? Yes, in some cases, non-pharmacological approaches or alternative medications with better-established safety profiles during pregnancy may be recommended. These could include saline nasal rinses, avoiding allergens, or using certain antihistamines deemed safe during pregnancy.

By carefully considering the unique needs and risks of special populations, healthcare providers can tailor the use of mometasone nasal spray to ensure optimal efficacy and safety across diverse patient groups.

Mometasone nasal spray – NHS

1. About mometasone nasal spray

Mometasone nasal (nose) spray is used to treat cold-like symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis. This is inflammation of the inside of the nose that can be brought on by hay fever.

Mometasone is also used to treat other conditions, such as nasal polyps in adults.

Mometasone is a type of medicine known as a steroid (or corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are a copy of a hormone that your body makes naturally. They are not the same as anabolic steroids.

Mometasone nasal spray is available on prescription for adults and children.

Adults can buy it from pharmacies for treating symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis, where it is often sold as Clarinaze.

It also comes as:

• a cream, ointment or scalp lotion for eczema and psoriasis
• an inhaler (puffer) for asthma
• skin treatments for eczema and psoriasis

2.

Key facts

• You need to use mometasone nasal spray regularly for it to work.
• It works by reducing swelling and irritation in your nose.
• The most common side effects are an unpleasant smell and a dry or sore nose or throat.
• Under-18s can only use mometasone nasal spray if their doctor prescribes it.
• If your doctor has prescribed high doses of mometasone to control your symptoms you may need to carry a steroid emergency card. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.

3. Who can and cannot take mometasone nasal spray

Most adults can use mometasone nasal spray for nasal polyps, allergic rhinitis and hay fever.

Children aged 3 years and over can use mometasone nasal spray for allergic rhinitis and hay fever.

Mometasone is not suitable for some people. To make sure this nasal spray is safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

• are allergic to mometasone or any other medicines
• are taking or have recently taken other steroid medicines
• have had nose surgery
• have an infection in your nose
• are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• have ever had TB (tuberculosis)
• have ever had glaucoma or cataracts

4. How and when to take mometasone nasal spray

Mometasone nasal spray needs to be used regularly for it to work.

For allergic rhinitis the usual dose is 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril once a day. Do not use more than 2 sprays per nostril in 24 hours.

For nasal polyps the usual dose is 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril once or twice a day. Do not use more than 4 sprays per nostril in 24 hours.

How to use it

Follow the instructions that come with your nasal spray.

If you’re using a new bottle, it may not work first time. Pump the spray a few times until a fine mist comes out. You’ll also need to do this if the bottle has not been used for a few days.

Gently shake the bottle and remove the cap.

1. Blow your nose gently, then close one nostril with your finger.
2. Bend your head forward slightly and carefully put the nozzle into your other nostril.
3. Slowly breathe in through your nose and press down on the widest part of the nozzle to squirt the spray once.
4. Breathe out through your mouth.
5. Follow steps 3 and 4 again to squirt a second spray into the same nostril, if necessary.
6. Remove the nozzle from your nose.
7. Repeat the process with the other nostril if you need to.

After using your spray, wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap.

Will my dose go up or down?

You’ll be able to use your nasal spray less often once your symptoms are under control.

For example, you might go from using 2 sprays in each nostril once a day, to 1 spray in each nostril once a day.

You may need to increase your dose again if your symptoms get worse after reducing it.

If you have mometasone nasal spray on prescription, your doctor will tell you how often to use the nasal spray and when to change your dose.

What if I forget to take it?

If you forget to take a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Unless it’s almost time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose and take your next one as usual.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

What if I use too much?

Using too much mometasone nasal spray by accident is unlikely to harm you.

5. Side effects of mometasone nasal spray

Like all medicines, mometasone can cause side effects although not everyone gets them.

With mometasone nasal spray, very little medicine is absorbed into the rest of your body, so it’s not likely to give you serious side effects.#

If your doctor has prescribed high doses of mometasone, or you’re also taking other steroid medicines or tablets for fungal infections or HIV, you may get underactive adrenal glands as a side effect. Ask your doctor if you need to carry a steroid emergency card.

Common side effects

These common side effects may happen in more than 1 in 100 people.

Keep taking the medicine but talk to your doctor if these side effects bother you or do not go away:

• headaches
• unpleasant taste or smell
• sneezing
• nosebleeds, dry or sore nose or throat

Serious side effects

Very few people have serious side effects when using mometasone nasal spray.

You are more likely to have a serious side effect if you use high doses of mometasone for more than a few months.

Tell a doctor straight away if you have a serious side effect, including:

• problems with your breathing
• damage to your nose or sores inside your nose
• changes in your eyesight, such as blurred vision or a cloudy lens in the eye – these can be signs of increased pressure in your eyes (glaucoma) or a cataract

Serious allergic reaction

It’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to mometasone.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

These are not all the side effects of mometasone. See the leaflet inside your medicine’s packet for a full list.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect to the UK safety scheme.

6. How to cope with side effects of mometasone nasal spray

What to do about:

• headaches – make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller and talk to your doctor if the headaches last longer than a week or are severe.
• unpleasant taste or smell – rinsing your mouth out with water or brushing your teeth after you use your nasal spray may help.
• sneezing – this will usually settle down as you get used to the medicine.
• nosebleeds or dry or sore nose or throat – stop using mometasone for a few days then start again. Speak to your doctor or a pharmacist if these side effects do not go away.

7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Mometasone and pregnancy

There’s no clear evidence that mometasone will harm your unborn baby. For safety, your doctor will only prescribe mometasone in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. They will prescribe the lowest dose that works for you.

If you’re pregnant, speak to your doctor before buying mometasone nasal spray at a pharmacy or supermarket.

Mometasone and breastfeeding

It’s generally OK to use mometasone while you’re breastfeeding.

However, always check with your doctor first. Your baby may need extra monitoring if you use mometasone nasal spray twice a day for more than a few months.

Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you’re:

• trying to get pregnant
• pregnant
• breastfeeding

For more information about how using a steroid nasal spray might affect you and your baby during pregnancy, read this leaflet on treating allergic rhinitis on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPs) website.

8. Cautions with other medicines

Some medicines and mometasone can affect each other. This can increase your chances of side effects, or it may mean changing your mometasone dose.

Check with a pharmacist or your doctor if you’re taking:

• medicines used to treat HIV, such as ritonavir or cobicistat
• antifungal medicines such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
• other medicines that contain steroids such as eczema creams, asthma inhalers, tablets, injections and eyedrops

Mixing mometasone with herbal remedies and supplements

There’s very little information about taking herbal remedies and supplements while taking mometasone. Ask a pharmacist for advice.

Important

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

9. Common questions about mometasone nasal spray

How does mometasone work?

Mometasone is a steroid (corticosteroid) medicine.

Steroids closely copy the effects of natural hormones produced in your adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are above your kidneys.

Mometasone works on your immune system to reduce the symptoms of inflammatory conditions and allergic reactions, such as redness, swelling and itching.

The nasal spray reduces swelling and mucus in your nose. It can take a little longer to work than antihistamine sprays but the effects last for longer.

If you’re using it to treat nasal polyps, mometasone will reduce swelling and reduce the size of the polyps.

How long does it take to work?

You will not notice any immediate improvement in your symptoms when you first start using mometasone nasal spray.

It takes a few days for a steroid nasal spray to start working. It can take several weeks to reach its full effect.

If you use the spray for hay fever it is best to start using it at least a couple of weeks before the hay fever season starts.

Many people notice they get symptoms at about the same time each year.

How long will I use it for?

If you buy mometasone nasal spray from a pharmacy or supermarket, check the leaflet that comes with the medicine. This will tell you how long you can use it for.

You can usually use it for up to 3 months, but tell your doctor if you feel no better after using it for 14 days.

If you are prescribed mometasone, your doctor may advise you to use it for longer.

Is it safe to use mometasone for a long time?

Mometasone is unlikely to have any lasting harmful effects if you follow the instructions that come with your medicine, or use it as recommended by your doctor.

However, children and teenagers need to have their height and weight monitored carefully if they’re using high doses of a steroid nasal spray like mometasone for a long time. Taking mometasone for a long time can slow down their normal growth.

The nasal spray delivers a small amount of steroid medicine exactly where you need it. This limits the amount of steroid reaching the rest of your body. It also keeps the risk of side effects as low as possible.

Do I need a steroid card?

If you’re using steroid medicines such as mometasone, your adrenal glands may not make as much of some of the hormones your body needs such as cortisol (known as the stress hormone). This is known as adrenal insufficiency.

It’s more likely to happen if you take high doses for a long time (especially tablets and injections) or if you regularly use different kinds of steroids at the same time (such as a steroid nasal spray and a steroid inhaler).

Your doctor or pharmacist will assess your risk of adrenal insufficiency based on the type and dose of steroids you’re taking, and may recommend that you carry a steroid emergency card (red card). This card is the size of a credit card and fits in your wallet or purse.

The Addison’s Disease Self-Help Group (ADSHG) website has more information about the NHS steroid emergency card.

Important

If you need any medical or dental treatment, or are having surgery or an invasive procedure, show your steroid emergency card to your doctor or dentist. This is important so they know you’re having steroid treatment and can give you extra steroids as needed.

Can I drink alcohol with it?

Yes, you can drink alcohol with mometasone.

Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?

You can eat and drink normally while you’re using mometasone.

Will it affect my contraception?

Mometasone does not affect any type of contraception, including the contraceptive pill and emergency contraception.

Will it affect my fertility?

There’s no clear evidence to suggest that using mometasone will reduce fertility in either men or women.

However, speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you are trying to get pregnant.

Can I drive or ride a bike with it?

For most people, taking mometasone nasal spray will not affect their ability to drive a car or cycle.

Related conditions

• Allergic rhinitis
• Hay fever

Useful resources

• HealthUnlocked: mometasone forum
• Action Against Allergy: charity
• Allergy UK: charity

Page last reviewed: 28 July 2020
Next review due: 28 July 2023

Budesonide nasal spray: a steroid used to treat cold-like symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis

1.

About budesonide

Budesonide nasal (nose) spray is used to treat cold-like symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis. This is an inflammation of the inside of your nose that can be brought on by hay fever. It is also used to reduce swelling and shrink nasal polyps.

Budesonide is a type of medicine called a steroid (or corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are a copy of a substance your body makes naturally. They are not the same as anabolic steroids.

Budesonide nasal spray is available on prescription for adults and children. Adults can buy it from pharmacies and supermarkets.

It can also be used to treat other conditions. Read about:

• budesonide inhalers – for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• budesonide tablets, capsules and granules – for inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and autoimmune hepatitis
• budesonide rectal foam and enemas – for ulcerative colitis

2.

Key facts

• You need to use budesonide nasal spray regularly for it to work.
• It works by reducing swelling and irritation in your nose.
• The most common side effects are sneezing, nosebleeds and a dry or sore nose.
• Do not give this nasal spray to children under the age of 6 years (unless their doctor has prescribed it).
• If you’re pregnant, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist before buying budesonide nasal spray at a pharmacy or supermarket.

3. Who can and cannot use budesonide nasal spray

Most adults and children aged 6 years and over can use budesonide nasal spray. Occasionally a specialist may prescribe it for a younger child.

Budesonide is not suitable for some people. To make sure this nasal spray is safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

• are allergic to budesonide or any other medicines
• are taking or have recently taken other steroid medicines
• have ever had nose surgery or get heavy or frequent nosebleeds
• have an infection in your nose or eyes
• are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• have ever had TB (tuberculosis)
• have liver problems
• have ever had glaucoma or cataracts

4.

How and when to use it

Budesonide nasal spray needs to be used regularly for it to work.

You’ll generally use the spray once or twice a day (once in the morning and once at night). The usual dose is 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril.

Follow the instructions that come with your nasal spray. Do not use more than the maximum number of sprays in 24 hours.

If you’re using a new bottle, it will not work the first time you press the spray. Pump the spray a few times until a fine mist comes out. You’ll also need to do this if you have not used the bottle for a few days.

Gently shake the bottle and remove the cap.

1. Blow your nose gently.
2. Close 1 nostril by pressing your finger against the side of your nose.
3. Bend your head forward slightly and carefully put the nozzle into your other nostril.
4. Slowly breathe in through your nose and with your fingers press down on the widest part of the nozzle to squirt the spray once into your nostril.
5. Breathe out through your mouth.
6. Follow steps 3 and 4 again to squirt a second spray into the same nostril if you need it.

Repeat the process with the other nostril, if you need it.

After using your spray, wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap.

Will my dose go up or down?

Once your symptoms are under control, you’ll be able to use your nasal spray less often. For example, you might go from using 2 sprays to just 1 spray in each nostril in the morning.

If you bought a budesonide nasal spray from a pharmacy, stop using it when you think you no longer need it. Ask your pharmacist for advice if you’re not sure when to stop. Do not use it continuously for more than 3 months without speaking to your doctor.

If your symptoms get worse after reducing your dose, you may want to increase it again.

If you have budesonide nasal spray on prescription, your doctor will tell you how often to use the nasal spray and when to change your dose.

What if I forget to use it?

If you forget to use a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Unless it’s almost time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose and take your next one as usual.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

What if I use too much?

Using too much budesonide nasal spray by accident is unlikely to harm you.

5. Side effects

Like all medicines, budesonide can cause side effects although not everyone gets them.

With budesonide nasal spray, very little medicine is absorbed into the rest of the body, so it’s not likely to give you serious side effects.

Common side effects

These common side effects can happen in more than 1 in 100 people.

Keep taking the medicine but talk to your doctor if these side effects bother you or do not go away:

• sneezing
• dry or sore nose, or nosebleeds
• dry or sore throat
• unpleasant taste or smell

Serious side effects

Very few people have serious side effects when using budesonide nasal spray.

You are more likely to have a serious side effect if you use budesonide for more than a few months or take a high dose.

Tell a doctor straight away if you get:

• damage to your nose or sores inside your nose
• changes in your eyesight, such as blurred vision or a cloudy lens in the eye – these can be signs of increased pressure in your eyes (glaucoma) or a cataract

Serious allergic reaction

It happens rarely but it is possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to budesonide.

Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

• you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
• you’re wheezing
• you get tightness in the chest or throat
• you have trouble breathing or talking
• your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling

You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.

These are not all the side effects of budesonide. For a full list see the leaflet inside your medicines packet.

Information:

You can report any suspected side effect to the UK safety scheme.

6. How to cope with side effects

What to do about:

• sneezing – this will usually settle down as you get used to the medicine.
• dry or sore nose, or nosebleeds – stop using your nasal spray for a few days, then start again. Speak to your doctor or a pharmacist if these side effects do not go away.
• dry or sore throat – rinsing your mouth out with water or brushing your teeth after you use your nasal spray may help. If this is no better after 7 days ask your doctor for advice.
• unpleasant taste or smell – rinse your mouth with water or have a drink of water after you use your nasal spray.

7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Budesonide and pregnancy

There’s no clear evidence that budesonide will harm your baby. For safety your doctor will only prescribe budesonide in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. They will prescribe the lowest dose that works for you.

Speak to your doctor or a pharmacist before buying budesonide nasal spray at a pharmacy or supermarket.

For more information about how using a steroid nasal spray might affect you and your baby during pregnancy, read this leaflet on treating allergic rhinitis on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPs) website.

Budesonide and breastfeeding

It’s generally OK to use budesonide while breastfeeding.

However always check with your doctor or a pharmacist first. Your baby may need extra monitoring if you use a high dose of the nasal spray.

Non-urgent advice: Talk to your doctor if you’re:

• trying to get pregnant
• pregnant
• breastfeeding

8. Cautions with other medicines

Some medicines and budesonide interfere with each other and this can increase your chances of side effects. It may mean changing your budesonide dose.

Check with a pharmacist or your doctor if you’re taking:

• medicines used to treat HIV such as ritonavir or cobicistat
• antifungal medicines such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
• other medicines that contain steroids such as eczema creams, asthma inhalers, tablets, injections, eye or nose drops, and other nasal sprays

Mixing budesonide with herbal remedies and supplements

There’s very little information about taking herbal remedies and supplements together with budesonide. Ask a pharmacist for advice.

Important

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you’re taking any other medicines, including herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.

9. Common questions

How does it work?

Budesonide is a steroid (corticosteroid) medicine.

Steroids closely copy the effects of natural hormones produced in your adrenal glands. These are 2 small glands found above the kidneys.

Budesonide works on your immune system to reduce the symptoms of inflammatory conditions and allergic reactions such as redness, swelling and itching.

The nasal spray reduces swelling and mucus in your nose. It can take a little longer to work than antihistamine sprays but the effects last for longer.

If you are using it to treat nasal polyps, budesonide will reduce swelling and irritation of the lining of your nose. This can make the polyps shrink.

How long does it take to work?

You will not notice your symptoms improve straight away when you first start using budesonide nasal spray. It takes a few days for budesonide to start working but can take several weeks to reach its full effect.

Tell your doctor if you do not feel any better after using the spray for 2 weeks.

If you use the spray for hay fever, it is best to start using it at least a couple of weeks before the hay fever season starts. Many people notice they get symptoms at about the same time each year.

If you use the spray for nasal polyps, it can take 1 to 2 months for your symptoms to improve.

How long will I use it for?

If you buy budesonide nasal spray from a pharmacy or supermarket, check the leaflet that comes with the medicine. This will tell you how long you can use it for. You can use it for up to 3 months but tell your doctor if you feel no better after using it for 2 weeks.

If you are prescribed budesonide, your doctor may advise you use it for longer.

Is it safe to use budesonide for a long time?

Budesonide is unlikely to have any lasting harmful effects if you follow the instructions that come with your medicine, or use it as your doctor recommends.

However, children and teenagers need to have their height and weight monitored carefully if they’re using high doses of a steroid nasal spray like budesonide for a long time. This is to make sure the steroid is not affecting their growth.

The nasal spray delivers a small amount of steroid medicine exactly where you need it. This limits the amount of steroid reaching the rest of your body. It also keeps the risk of side effects as low as possible.

Can I drink alcohol with it?

Yes, you can drink alcohol with budesonide.

Will it affect my fertility?

There is no clear evidence to suggest that using budesonide will reduce fertility in either men or women.

However, speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you are trying to get pregnant.

Will it affect my contraception?

Budesonide does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill and emergency contraception.

Can I drive or ride a bike?

For most people, using budesonide nasal spray will not affect their ability to drive a car or cycle.

Related conditions

• Allergic rhinitis
• Hay fever
• Nasal polyps

Useful resources

• HealthUnlocked: Budesonide forum
• Allergy UK: charity
• Action Against Allergy: charity

Page last reviewed: 12 June 2020
Next review due: 12 June 2023

How to treat a runny nose?

Rhinitis or runny nose is a response of the nasal mucosa to an irritant. This reaction often accompanies colds.
Of course, each of us has experienced the following symptoms at one time or another: Do you often sneeze, have a dry nose, burning or itching? Can’t breathe freely? Pay attention to these primary, seemingly insignificant symptoms of a serious ENT disease.
The causative agents of rhinitis can be: viruses, bacteria, fungi, and various allergens.

In modern medicine, rhinitis is divided into 4 forms of rhinitis: acute, chronic, vasomotor and allergic . The most common is acute rhinitis. This is the primary stage of the disease, which in a neglected state quite often turns into a more severe chronic one, with frequent relapses.
In addition to the obvious inconvenience, rhinitis can lead to complications. Sinusitis – and this inflammation of the maxillary sinuses is also a disease that begins with a runny nose.
The treatment of a runny nose consists in eliminating the cause of the disease, relieving symptoms and restoring the full functioning of the organ. Accordingly, depending on the classification and the onset of the disease, different treatment is prescribed.
The most commonly recommended treatment for rhinitis is topical vasoconstrictors, which are used to improve nasal breathing.
There is a huge number of drugs in this group:
Phenylephrine, Naphazoline, Xylometazoline, Oxymetazoline, Tetrazoline

Which drug is more effective and safer.
Group 1 drugs: They have a milder, but not long-lasting effect of less than 2 hours. They act on alpha1 adrenergic receptors.
Active ingredient: Phenylephrine ( Vibrocil )
Group 2 drugs: They act on alpha2 adrenoreceptors. This group of drugs is mainly used.
Active ingredient Naphazoline (preparation: Naphthyzinum) – is a short-acting drug that causes undesirable side effects and complications more often than others. There is a term “naphazoline addiction” and this is already a disease and a reason to see a doctor.
Why is Naphthyzin dangerous?

1. Causes a “rebound” symptom – relieves nasal edema well, but after the end of the action, the nose swells even more.
2. Causes atrophic rhinitis.
3. Causes poisoning. Be sure to check your first aid kit and get rid of this drug.

Oxymetazoline (Nazivin) and Xylometazoline (Xymelin) were synthesized later, are derivatives of Naphthyzin. Safer and more efficient.
Vasoconstrictor effect up to 8 hours. There are 2 concentrations of 0.1% for adults and 0.05% for children. The drug is used for no more than 10 days.
It is also necessary to remember that the choice of the form of release of the drug plays an important role, the most unsuccessful is drops. When using drops, the drug enters the nasopharynx and is swallowed. This reduces the effectiveness and significantly increases the risk of systemic side effects. Studies show that xylomethasone metered-dose pump spray improves nasal breathing significantly more effectively than conventional sprays and drops.

There are also herbal preparations: Pinosol drops. They have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects. It should be remembered that there is no vasoconstrictor effect and should be used with caution in people prone to allergies.

Irrigation and nasal wash
The drugs cleanse the mucous membrane of the accumulated inflammatory secretion and microorganisms, as well as reduce its swelling. There are isotonic and hypertonic solutions.
It is advisable to use isotonic solutions for a runny nose caused by a cold or an allergic reaction. It is indicated for daily hygienic washing of the nose, which contributes to the prevention of SARS.
A hypertonic solution of sea water has an absorbent effect, drawing fluid from cells and vessels, thus removing swelling of the nasal mucosa.
When washing the nose, you should pay attention: if you have a stuffy nose, then you must first use vasoconstrictors, and then after 5 minutes, carry out nasal hygiene.

Among the well-known brands on the market are
Aqualor, AquaMaris, Rinostop Aqua
Inside from the first day of the disease, you can take a combined herbal preparation Sinupret. It has a secretolytic, secretomotor, anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, moderate antibacterial and antiviral effect. Promotes the outflow of exudate from the paranasal sinuses and upper respiratory tract, preventing the development of complications.
Sinupret adult tablets 2 tablets 3 times a day
Sinupret drops are indicated for children from 2 years old, 15 drops 3 times a day.
The course of treatment is 7-14 days.
For more details, see the instructions for the drug.

If rhinitis is of an allergic nature, then it is necessary to take antihistamine (antiallergic) drugs that reduce inflammatory reactions
Erius , Claritin, Zodak , Cromohexal Spray , Allergodil Spray 900 03
And also, according to the doctor’s prescription, locally nasal glucocorticosteroids.

For more severe rhinitis, see a doctor.

What nose drops can be given to children, a list of effective remedies

We must say right away that the sprays are intended for older children. For children under 6 years of age, nasal drops are recommended.

Isofra (nasal spray) fl. 15ml

Let’s start with a combined drug that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, vasoconstrictor and softening effect. Recommend Isofra (nasal spray) fl. 15ml is possible in the acute stage of a cold. The effectiveness of the drug has been proven: your child will feel relief in the near future. But for the treatment of advanced cases, the use of Isofra is not the best option. The composition will not bring the desired result.

Rinofluimucil called. air. 10ml

Nasal aerosol Rinofluimucil refers to thinning drugs. It is used in order to get rid of congestion in the nasal passages and keep the mucus in them in a healthy state. Keep in mind that thick contents and mucus stagnation lead to complications in the form of sinusitis and rhinitis, so it is imperative to deal with them.

Rinofluimucil is made on the basis of secretolytic and mucolytic components. They allow you to ensure the normal outflow of mucus and eliminate the viscosity of the contents of the nose. But since there are plant components among the secretolytics, the aerosol can cause allergies in a child who is sensitive to substances of plant origin.

Polydex with phenylephrine nasal spray 15ml

Spray with powerful antibacterial action. The composition of the drug contains an effective and at the same time safe antibiotic. By using Polydex with Phenylephrine Nasal Spray 15ml you can achieve the following results:

• relieve swelling and inflammation of the nasal mucosa;
• to get rid of pathogenic bacteria that led to the occurrence of a cold.

Important! Polydex must be ordered by your child’s doctor. It is strictly forbidden to increase or decrease the dosage – this can cause serious complications.

The preparation contains:

• Phenylethrile: vasoconstrictor;
• Dexamethasone: a hormonal substance that relieves swelling and inflammation;
• Neomycin and polymyxin: antibiotics.

The medicine is effective and inexpensive, and it provides quick relief. However, due to the large number of components, this spray is rarely prescribed for children.

Vibrocil drops nasal fl. 15ml

Drops with phenylephrine, which can be used for babies from the 1st year of life. Achieved effects:

• mucus expulsion;
• liquefaction of secretions;
• reduction of allergic edema;
• toning of the walls of blood vessels.

Vibrocil drops nasal fl. 15 ml are inexpensive, safe and effective medicines for children.

Nazivin nasal drops 0.01% fl. 5ml

The main active ingredient is oxymetazoline. A positive result will last more than 10 hours.