GENERIC NAME: BECLOMETHASONE - NASAL (beck-low-METH-uh-sown)

BRAND NAME(S): Beconase, Vancenase

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This medication works directly on the nasal tissue to reduce swelling and inflammation. It is used to treat symptoms of allergies which may include nasal congestion, post nasal drip, itching, runny nose, or sneezing.

HOW TO USE: Patient instructions should be provided with the product. Make sure you understand how to use the medication properly. Shake well before each use. The medication must reach the nasal tissue to be effective. Therefore, blow your nose to clear the nasal passage before using the medication. If passages are blocked, a nasal decongestant may be used first (for a maximum of 3 to 5 days) to open the passages allowing proper penetration of the medication. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not take it more frequently without your doctor's approval. Full benefit of the medication requires regular use. Effects are not immediate, but should be seen in a few days.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause lightheadedness, headache, sneezing, nasal irritation, stinging, or drying of nasal tissue. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If they become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: sores in your nose, frequent nosebleeds. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: This medication should be used with caution if the following medical conditions exist: glaucoma, herpes-type infection of the eye, infection, recent nasal surgery or existing nasal sores, liver disease, tuberculosis, underactive thyroid. Though very unlikely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed into your bloodstream. This may have undesirable consequences that may require additional corticosteroid treatment. This is especially true for children and for those who have used this for an extended period of time and if they also have serious medical problems such as serious infections, injuries or surgeries. This precaution applies for up to one year after stopping use of this drug. Tell your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur: vision problems, persistent headache, increased thirst or urination, unusual weakness or weight loss, dizziness. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and inform them that you use (or have used) this medication. Caution is advised when using this drug in children. Though it is unlikely to occur with intranasal steroids (beclomethasone), this medication may temporarily slow down a child's rate of growth, but it will probably not affect final adult height. Monitor your child's height periodically. Children under six years of age should not use this medication. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. This medication may appear in breast milk. Discuss this with your doctor prior to breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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