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Beclometasone Nasal Spray (Beconase, Nasobec, Pollenase)

Effective relief from hay fever and rhinitis symptoms with beclometasone nasal spray: usage, dosage, and safety information.

By Medha deb
Created on

Beclometasone nasal spray eases the symptoms of rhinitis, including a stuffy, runny, or itchy nose. It is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the nasal passages, providing relief from allergic reactions such as hay fever.It may take a few days for the full effect, and for hay fever, starting 2-3 weeks before the season is recommended.

About beclometasone nasal spray

Beclometasone nasal spray is used to prevent or ease rhinitis, where the inside of the nose becomes inflamed and irritated. Common symptoms include sneezing, a blocked or congested nose, runny nose (watery discharge), and itchy nose. It is commonly caused by allergies like hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) or year-round allergens (perennial allergic rhinitis). It can also treat nonallergic (vasomotor) rhinitis and prevent nasal polyps after surgery.

This medicine belongs to a class of medications called corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages, relieving symptoms like sneezing, itching, runny or stuffy nose. Unlike antihistamines, it prevents inflammation rather than just blocking histamine. Available brands include Beconase, Nasobec, and Pollenase, typically as an aerosol liquid or suspension spray with 50 mcg or 80 mcg per spray.

Improvement may begin within a few days, but full benefits can take up to 2 weeks. Use regularly for best results.

Before using beclometasone nasal spray

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have or have ever had:

  • Recent nasal surgery, injury, sores, or ulcers in the nose, as it can slow wound healing.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) or untreated infections.
  • Glaucoma, cataracts, asthma, or eye herpes infections.
  • Any type of infection.

For children: Suitable for children over 6 years if prescribed by a doctor; younger children require doctor determination.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Use only if recommended by a doctor, as benefits must outweigh risks. Contact your doctor if pregnant.

Other medicines: Inform your doctor of all medications, as interactions may occur.

How to use beclometasone nasal spray

Read the manufacturer’s leaflet for step-by-step instructions. Shake the bottle well before use.

Standard Dosage

Initially, use 2 sprays into each nostril twice daily. Once symptoms are controlled, reduce to 1 spray per nostril twice daily. Do not exceed 4 sprays per nostril in 24 hours. Treatment can continue up to 3 months or as advised.

Age GroupDosage (per nostril)Frequency
Adults and children 12+1-2 spraysOnce or twice daily
Children 6-11 years1 sprayTwice daily
Children 4-11 (Mayo)1 sprayOnce daily
Under 4 yearsDoctor determinedN/A

Data synthesized from Mayo Clinic, NHS, and Patient.info.

How to administer

  1. Blow your nose gently to clear nostrils.
  2. Shake the bottle.
  3. Close one nostril with a finger; tilt head forward slightly, insert nozzle into the other nostril, keeping bottle upright.
  4. Breathe in gently through the nose while pressing the nozzle to release spray.
  5. Hold breath for a few seconds, then breathe out through mouth.
  6. Repeat for second spray if needed.
  7. Switch nostrils; wipe nozzle with clean tissue and recap.
  8. If blocked, rinse nozzle under warm water.

Prime the spray before first use or if not used for a week: spray 6 times into the air until fine mist appears.

How long should you use beclometasone nasal spray?

For over-the-counter use, limit to 1-3 months; stop when no longer needed. Consult a pharmacist if unsure. Prescribed use may be longer. If symptoms persist after 3 weeks or worsen, see a doctor. For nasal polyps post-surgery, continue as directed, possibly several weeks.

Getting the most out of your treatment

  • Start 2-3 weeks before hay fever season for prevention.
  • Use regularly, even if feeling better.
  • Avoid allergens where possible.
  • Combine with saline rinses for better relief.

Stop using beclometasone nasal spray and contact a doctor urgently if:

  • Severe nosebleeds or pain.
  • Vision changes (e.g., blurred vision, glaucoma risk with long-term use).
  • Signs of allergic reaction: rash, swelling, breathing difficulty.
  • Infection signs: fever, worsening congestion.

Possible side effects

Side effects are usually mild. Common ones include:

Side EffectAction
Dryness/irritation of nose/throat, mild nosebleedsSpeak to pharmacist; try alternative.
Unusual tastes/smellsUsually mild; monitor.
Itchy red rashConsult doctor/pharmacist.
Nasal discomfort, headache (QNASL brand)Common in adults 12+.

Rare: ulceration, perforation of nasal septum with prolonged high doses. Long-term use may affect growth in children or cause eye issues; regular check-ups advised.

Other things to know

  • Storage: Room temperature, away from heat/moisture. Do not puncture or burn container.
  • Missed dose: Use as soon as remembered; do not double up.
  • Overdose: Rare; seek medical help if concerned.
  • Not for oral/eye use. Avoid if allergic to beclometasone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How quickly does beclometasone nasal spray work?

A: Some relief in days, full effect up to 2 weeks. Use regularly.

Q: Can children use it?

A: Yes, over 6 years if prescribed; dosages vary by age.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Only if doctor recommends; benefits vs. risks.

Q: What if I get nosebleeds?

A: Common mild side effect; if severe, stop and consult doctor.

Q: Can I use it with other allergy meds?

A: Yes, but check with pharmacist/doctor for interactions.

References

  1. Beclomethasone (nasal route) — Mayo Clinic. 2023-10-01. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/beclomethasone-nasal-route/description/drg-20075573
  2. How and when to use beclometasone nasal spray — NHS. 2024-05-15. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/beclometasone-nasal-spray/how-and-when-to-use-beclometasone-nasal-spray/
  3. Beclometasone nasal spray (Beconase, Nasobec, Pollenase) — Patient.info. 2024-02-20. https://patient.info/medicine/beclometasone-nasal-spray-beconase-nasobec-pollenase
  4. Beclomethasone Nasal Spray — MedlinePlus. 2024-08-10. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681047.html
  5. Apo-Beclomethasone Nasal Spray Factsheet — Rexall (Canadian health authority). 2023-11-05. https://www.rexall.ca/article/drug/view/id/1075/
Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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