Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Budesonide nasal spray is prescribed for alleviating symptoms such as sneezing, a runny, congested, or itchy nose associated with hay fever or other allergies triggered by pollen, mold, dust, or pets. It belongs to a category of medications known as corticosteroids. Its mechanism involves inhibiting the release of specific natural substances that contribute to allergy symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
Budesonide is available in liquid form as a nasal spray, both with and without a prescription. Typically, the spray is administered once daily in each nostril. For adults, the treatment often begins with a higher dose, later decreasing as symptoms improve. In the case of children, a lower initial dose is administered, with the option to increase if symptoms persist.
Use budesonide exactly as directed, avoiding deviations from the prescribed dosage or frequency.
Adult supervision is recommended for children under 12 years old using budesonide nasal spray, and the medication is not suitable for children under 6 years of age.
Budesonide nasal spray is exclusively meant for nasal use, and it should not be ingested. Be cautious not to spray it into your eyes or mouth.
Each bottle of budesonide nasal spray is intended for individual use. Sharing the spray is discouraged to prevent the spread of germs.
While budesonide controls hay fever or allergy symptoms, it does not provide a cure. Improvement in symptoms may be noticeable within 1 to 2 days, but the full benefits may take up to 2 weeks. Consistent use on a regular schedule is crucial for optimal effectiveness. Consult your doctor if symptoms worsen or fail to improve after using budesonide nasal spray daily for 2 weeks.
The nasal spray is designed for a specific number of sprays. After reaching the indicated number, even if some liquid remains, it is advisable to discard the bottle to ensure accurate medication dosage. Keep track of the number of sprays used to manage your medication effectively.
To administer the nasal spray follow these instructions:
- Remove the protective cap before using the spray.
- Close one nostril by pressing it with your finger.
- Tilt your head as directed and carefully insert the nasal applicator into the other nostril.
- Press down firmly on the device to administer the prescribed number of sprays. Avoid spraying directly onto the middle wall of your nose (nasal septum).
- Breathe in gently through your nose and out through your mouth.
- Repeat the process in the other nostril.
- Replace the cap on the nasal inhaler.
- Refrain from blowing your nose for 15 minutes after using this medication.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dryness, stinging, burning or irritation in the nose
- tiredness
- weakness
- vomiting
- nausea
- joint or muscle pain
- nosebleeds
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- vision problems
- fever, sore throat, chills, cough, and other signs of infection
- whistling sound from the nose
- hives
- rash
- itching
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- wheezing
- chest tightening
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- white patches in the throat, mouth, or nose
Caution
- Prior to using nasal budesonide, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Before initiating this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have eye problems, infections, or recent nose problems (such as injury, ulcers, or surgery).
- Exercise caution around individuals with easily transmissible infections (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu). Notify your doctor if you’ve been exposed to an infection for further guidance.
- In rare instances, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications can diminish your body’s ability to respond to physical stress. Inform your doctor or dentist before undergoing surgery, emergency treatment, or if you experience a serious illness or injury, indicating your current or recent use of this medication.
- While it’s unlikely, extended use of this medication in children may temporarily slow down their growth. Regularly consult with the doctor to monitor your child’s height.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant before using nasal budesonide. In rare cases, infants born to mothers who have used corticosteroids (including budesonide) for an extended period may exhibit low levels of corticosteroid hormone. Promptly notify your doctor if you observe symptoms like persistent nausea/vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- The presence of nasal budesonide in breast milk is not fully understood, although similar drugs do pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to make an informed decision.
Form and Strength
Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray nasal spray solution:
- 64 mcg
- budesonide nasal spray solution:
- 50 mcg
- 100 mcg
FAQ
How soon will Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray begin working?
When you first use Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray, your symptoms will not get better straight away. It takes a few days for it to start working and can take several weeks for it to reach its full effect.
Are there any long-term side effects with Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray?
Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray is unlikely to have any lasting harmful effects if you follow the instructions that come with it, or use it as your doctor recommends. However, children and teenagers need to have their height and weight monitored carefully if they’re using this medication for a long time.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/budesonide-nasal-spray/common-questions-about-budesonide-nasal-spray/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/budesonide-nasal-route/description/drg-20074729
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17970/rhinocort-aqua-nasal/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601030.html
- https://www.drugs.com/rhinocort.html
