What is beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Beclomethasone is a synthetic
steroid
of the glucocorticoid family. (The naturally-occurring
glucocorticoid that
is produced by the adrenal gland is cortisol or hydrocortisone.)
Glucocorticoid steroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions.
When used
as a nasal inhaler or spray, the medication goes directly to
the lining of
the nose, and very little is absorbed into the body.
What brand names are available for beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray?
Vancenase, Beconase, Beconase AQ, Vancenase AQ
Is beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
Do I need a prescription for beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray?
yes
What are the side effects of beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray?
The most commonly noted side effects
associated
with nasal beclomethasone are nasal irritation (occurring in
about 1 in 10
persons), sneezing (1 in 10), and, occasionally, a bloody
discharge from
the nose (about 1 in 50 persons).
What is the dosage for beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray?
The usual dose for the inhalers (Beconase,
Vancenase) is
one inhalation in each nostril two to four times each day. Some
patients
may do well with lower doses, and some require higher doses.
The usual
dose for the nasal sprays (Beconase AQ, Vancenase AQ, Vancenase
AQ DS) is one or
two sprays
in each nostril two to four times each day.
Which drugs or supplements interact with beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray?
No drug interactions have been
described with
nasal beclomethasone.
Is beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
There does not appear to be any increased
risk of
malformations in children born to mothers exposed to
beclomethasone during
pregnancy. Additionally, no dependency on the drug develops,
and there are
no withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped.
It is not known if beclomethasone is
secreted in breast milk. Other medications in this class are secreted
into breast
milk. It is not known whether the small amounts that may appear
in the
milk are of any consequence to the infant.
What else should I know about beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray?
What preparations of beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray are available?
Aerosol or spray units contain 42
mcg/inhalation
or spray except for Vancenase AQ DS which contains 84
mcg/inhalation
How should I keep beclomethasone dipropionate nasal inhaler-spray stored?
Beclomethasone should be kept at room
temperature,
15-30°C (59-86°F). It should be shaken well before
each use.