Beconase

What is Beconase?

Beconase is a nasal spray which is used to relieve the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (allergies which affect the nose and sinuses)

What are the symptoms of allergic rhinitis?

These symptoms can include:

• Blocked sinuses
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Itchy, red or watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat, mouth, nose and ears
• The loss of your sense of smell (anosmia)

Hay fever can also cause asthma symptoms to worsen. This can cause:

• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Tight chest
• Wheezing

How prominent is the condition?

It is estimated that around a fifth of the UK population suffers from hay fever. 90% of those with hay fever are allergic to Rye and Timothy grass pollen, while 25% are allergic to tree pollen. It's also been found that those allergic to birch pollen are more likely to be allergic to apples, cherries, peaches and plums as these fruits contain a protein which is similar to birch pollen.

How does Beconase work?

The active ingredient of Beconase is a corticosteroid (steroid) called beclomethasone dipropionate.

This is a naturally occurring hormone which is commonly found in the adrenal glands. It is used in Beconase due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

When an allergen, such as pollen, dust or animal dander, enters the body through the nose, the immune system issues a response to rid the body of the threat. Cells within the body release chemicals to fight the foreign bodies. These chemicals cause the symptoms of hay fever such as a runny nose and watery eyes.

Beclomethasone dipropionate inhibits the cells' ability to produce these chemicals, preventing an allergic reaction when the allergen is present.

Corticosteroids do not provide immediate relief from the symptoms of hay fever but do offer relief when used regularly for a period. According to the NHS, corticosteroids are more effective at preventing and relieving nasal symptoms than antihistamine tablets.

How do I use Beconase?

For adults, the typical dose is two sprays in each nostril, twice daily. For the best effect, take Beconase in the morning and the evening.

Before you use Beconase nasal spray for the first time, you will need to prime it. To prime your nasal spray:

1. Hold the bottle upright. Support the base of the bottle with your thumb and place your index and middle finger on either side of the collar of the nozzle.
2. When priming, hold the Beconase nasal spray away from you to avoid accidentally spraying the suspension into your eyes.
3. Keeping the thumb still, press down with your fingers to pump the spray.

If the spray does not work, the nozzle may be blocked. Consult the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine for information on how to clean your Beconase nasal spray.

Never try to unblock or enlarge the spray hole with a pin or sharp object, as this can damage the way Beconase spray works.

To use your Beconase nasal spray:

1. Shake the bottle and remove the cap from the nozzle
2. Gently blow your nose.
3. Close one nostril by pressing your finger against the side of your nose.
4. Insert the nozzle into the opposite nostril.
5. Tilt your head forward slightly and begin to slowly breathe in through your nose.
6. While breathing in, press the collar of the nasal spray down firmly to administer Beconase.
7. Remove the nozzle from your nose and breathe out through your mouth.
8. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to administer a second spray of Beconase in the same nostril.
9. Repeat steps 3 through 7 to administer the Beconase spray in the other nostril.
10. When you have finished using your Beconase nasal spray, wipe the nozzle carefully with a clean tissue or handkerchief, and replace the dust cap.

If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of continuously using Beconase, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Side effects and cautions

All medicines carry the risk of causing unwanted side effects, though not everybody gets them. If you are unsure about any of the side effects associated with this medication, don't hesitate to speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Common side effects of Beconase (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Dry or painful nose and throat
• Mild allergic reactions, including skin rashes or redness, itching or weals like nettle rash or hives
• Nose bleeds
• Sneezing immediately after using Beconase
• Unpleasant taste or smell

Very rare side effects of Beconase (affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)

• Cloudy lens in the eye (cataract)
• Damage to your nose
• Increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma)

If you notice any side effects, whether they are listed above or in the patient information leaflet, report them to one of our doctors or consult a pharmacist.

If you experience a severe allergic reaction after using Beconase, seek immediate medical attention.

Frequently asked questions about Beconase

What should I do if I forget to use Beconase?

If you forget to use Beconase, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as you normally would. Do not use more of this medicine to make up for a forgotten dose.

What should I do if I use more Beconase than I should?

If you use more Beconase than you should, inform your doctor. Using more Beconase than advised can increase your risk of side effects or cause your symptoms to worsen.

What would happen if I stop taking Beconase?

Stopping treatment early can cause your symptoms to come back. You should not stop using Beconase unless your doctor gives you explicit permission to.

If you wish to stop using Beconase, consult your doctor for advice.

If your doctor tells you to stop taking Beconase, take the remaining medicine to your pharmacist, so they can properly dispose of it for you.

Can I use Beconase while pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning on having a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

Table of contents

What is Beconase?

How does Beconase work?

How do I use Beconase?

Side effects and cautions

Frequently asked questions