What is Beconase Nasal Spray?
Beconase nasal spray is a steroid (corticosteroid), which contains the active ingredient beclomethasone dipropionate. It works to reduce inflammation in the nose, relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
How does Beconase work?
Beconase relives symptoms of allergic reactions by preventing cells in the nasal passage from releasing chemicals that cause allergic responses.
What symptoms does Beconase nasal spray relieve?
Beconase nasal spray treats symptoms associated with hay fever, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, and a stuffy nose.
Who should not use Beconase?
Do not use Beconase if:
You are allergic to beclomethasone dipropionate or any of the other ingredients in this medication which can be found in the patient information leaflet.
Consult with your pharmacist or GP before using Beconase if:
- You are breastfeeding, pregnant or planning to get pregnant
- You are currently taking any other medication
- You have previously or are currently using oral or injectable steroids
- You have ever had an operation on your nose
- You have a nose infection
What are the side effects of using Beconase?
Immediately after using the spray you may:
- Sneeze a little bit but this will stop after a short time
- Get an unpleasant smell or taste occasionally, particularly if you tilt your head back after administration
This is normal and you do not need to worry. These effects usually resolve after a few minutes.
Some people may experience side effects when using Beconase nasal spray. These include but are not limited to:
Allergic reactions – symptoms for which include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Becoming wheezy
- Swollen throat or face
If you experience any of these symptoms or feel that you may be having an allergic reaction, immediately seek medical attention as they can develop into more serious issues if not treated.
If you experience any of the following side effects, inform your GP or pharmacist as soon as possible
Common side effects (may affect 1/10 people):
- A painful or dry nose or throat
- Nose bleeds
- Mild allergic reaction resulting in itching or skin rashes
Very rare side effects (may affect 1/10,000 people):
- Damage to the nose
- Cataract (cloudy lens in the eye)
- Glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
Side effects for which frequency is unknown:
Shake the bottle
Gently shake the bottle a few times in an up-down motion
Remove dust cap and prime
Remove the dust cap and hold the bottle as shown with your index and middle finger on the collar of the nozzle and your thumb underneath. If you are using your nasal spray for the first time or after a few days without use, press down with your index and middle finger until a fine mist is produced.
Blow your nose
Blow your nose to clear the airways
Administer spray
Hold the bottle as shown and using your other hand, place a finger on your nose to close one nostril. Put the nozzle into the other nostril as far as is comfortable. Tilt your head forward and keep the bottle upright. Start breathing in slowly through your nose and at the same time press down firmly on the collar of the bottle to release one spray.
Breathe out
Breathe out through your mouth. Repeat step 4 if you have been instructed to administer more than one spray in each nostril.
Administer spray in other nostril
Repeat steps 4 and 5 to administer the correct number of sprays in the other nostril
The usual dose for Beconase is 2 sprays to be used into each nostril two time a day. This should be reduced to one spray into each nostril daily once symptoms are under control.
Before using Beconase for the first time, you must prepare your spray by ‘priming’ it.
To prepare your spray:
- Remove the dust cap
- Hold the bottle with your thumb on the bottom and index and middle finger on either side of the collar
- While pointing the bottle away from you and keeping your thumb still, press down firmly with your fingers to pump the spray
- Do this a couple of times until a fine mist is produced. This is known as ‘priming’
If you do not use your spray for a few days, it may need to be ‘primed’ again
Clean your spray at least once a week to prevent it from getting blocked.
To clean your spray:
- Remove the dust cap
- Pull upwards on the white collar to remove the nozzle
- Soak the dust cap and nozzle for a few minutes in warm water
- Rinse them both under a running tap
- Shake the excess water off both pieces and leave them to dry in a warm place
- Replace the nozzle back on the spray
- ‘Prime’ the nozzle as you did when preparing your spray
If Beconase nasal spray does not relieve your symptoms straight away, continue using it for a few days as it may take a few days for it to work.
