beclomethasone dipropionate inhaler (Beconase AQ, QNASL)

Beclomethasone is a synthetic steroid of the glucocorticoid family. It's prescribed to people age 5 and up. Beclomethasone is inhaled to stop and prevent the brochial spasm symptoms of asthma.

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. The FDA approved beclomethasone nasal spray in September 1981.

What brand names are available for beclomethasone aerosol inhaler?

Beconase AQ, QNASL

Is beclomethasone aerosol inhaler available as a generic drug?

No

Do I need a prescription for beclomethasone aerosol inhaler?

Yes

The most common side effects associated with nasal beclomethasone are:

• nasal irritation,
• sneezing,
• nausea, and
• lightheadedness.

A bloody nasal discharge and septum perforation may occur.

Fungal infection of the nose and throat, slow wound healing, glaucoma, and cataracts are also associated with intranasal beclomethasone.

Higher doses of intranasal beclomethasone may result in more absorption into the body. This may decrease bone formation and increase bone breakdown (resorption), resulting in weak bones and a risk of fractures, especially in children.

High doses may suppress the adrenal glands and impair their ability to make natural glucocorticoid. People with such suppression (which can be identified by testing) need increased amounts of glucocorticoid orally or by the intravenous route during periods of high physical stress since higher amounts of glucocorticoids are needed by the body to fight physical stress.

Patients receiving beclomethasone may develop easy bruising if enough beclomethasone is absorbed into the body.

The usual dose for the inhalers is 1-2 sprays in each nostril twice daily (Beconase AQ) or 2 sprays in each nostril once daily (QNASL). Some patients may do well with lower doses, and some require higher doses.

No drug interactions have been described with nasal beclomethasone.

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 preparations of beclomethasone aerosol inhaler are available?

Nasal Inhaler: 42 or 80 mcg per spray

How should I keep beclomethasone aerosol inhaler stored?

Beclomethasone should be kept at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F). It should be shaken well before each use.