Nasonex General Information
Nasonex is used to prevent and treat seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms (such as stuffy/runny nose, itching, and sneezing). It is also used to treat certain growths in the nose (nasal polyps). Nasonex belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling (inflammation) in the nasal passages.
OTHER USES: This section contains uses of Nasonex that are not listed in the approved US professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use Nasonex for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
Nasonex may also be used to treat sinus inflammation (sinusitis). It should be used with an antibiotic if sinusitis is caused by a bacterial infection.
How to Use Nasonex
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using Nasonex and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Use Nasonex in the nose as directed by your doctor, usually once a day for runny nose (rhinitis) and once or twice a day for polyps. Do not spray in the eyes or mouth. Gently blow your nose before using Nasonex. Shake the container well before each use. Follow the instructions to properly prime the spray pump.
To use the spray, remove the protective cap. Close one nostril by pressing it with your finger. Tilt your head slightly forward and, keeping the bottle upright, carefully insert the nasal applicator into the other nostril. Press down firmly on the pump to deliver the prescribed number of sprays. Do not spray directly onto the middle wall of your nose (nasal septum). Breathe in gently through your nose and out through your mouth. Repeat in the other nostril. Wipe the applicator tip and replace the plastic cap. Avoid blowing your nose for 15 minutes after using Nasonex.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Younger children may need a smaller dose and help from an adult to use Nasonex properly. Use Nasonex regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. Do not increase your dose or use it more frequently than directed.
Nasonex does not work immediately. Some people will feel Nasonex working within 2 days, but it may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefit of Nasonex takes effect. Therefore, when using Nasonex to prevent seasonal allergy symptoms, you may need to start Nasonex 2-4 weeks before pollen season begins. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you should also use other medications (such as nose drops/spray, allergy drugs taken by mouth) along with Nasonex until it takes full effect.
Keep track of the number of sprays used from the container. Discard the container after you have used the number of sprays specified on the manufacturer's package. Follow the package instructions to unblock the spray tip if needed and to clean the spray bottle.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks or if they worsen.
Nasonex Possible Side Effects
Nose/throat dryness or irritation, blood-tinged mucus/phlegm, and nosebleeds may occur. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Nasonex because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Nasonex do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these serious side effects occur: pain/sores in your nose, white patches in your nose/mouth, painful swallowing/trouble swallowing.
Rarely, it is possible that corticosteroids given in the nose will be absorbed into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children and people who use Nasonex for a long time and in high doses. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.
A very serious allergic reaction to Nasonex is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Nasonex Precautions
Before using Nasonex, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Nasonex may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Nasonex, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye problems (such as glaucoma, cataracts), infections (including tuberculosis, herpes eye infection), recent nose problems (such as injury, ulcers, surgery).
Avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu). Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.
Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Therefore, before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using Nasonex or have used Nasonex within the past few months.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Though it is unlikely, Nasonex may slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. The effect on final adult height is unknown. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.
During pregnancy, Nasonex should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if Nasonex passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Nasonex Possible Intercations
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.