Information on Nasonex

Pronounced:NAZE-oh-necks
Generic name:Mometasone furoate monohydrate

Why is Nasonex prescribed?

Nasonex nasal spray prevents and relieves the runny, stuffy nose that accompanies hay fever and year-round allergies. It contains a steroid medication that fights inflammation.

Most important fact about Nasonex

A long-term treatment for allergies, Nasonex does not provide immediate relief. To be effective, it must be used regularly once a day. It starts working within 2 days after the first dose, but takes 1 to 2 weeks to yield its maximum benefits. If you suffer from hay fever, you should begin taking it 2 to 4 weeks before the start of pollen season.

How should you take Nasonex?

Take Nasonex regularly at the same time each day. Do not use more than the prescribed amount, and do not take it more than once a day.

Shake the bottle thoroughly before each use. Before the first use, prime the pump by pressing it repeatedly until a fine mist appears. If more than a week passes between uses, you'll need to prime the pump again. Avoid spraying the mist into your eyes. Administer the spray as follows:

1. Gently blow your nose to clear the nostrils.
2. Press one nostril closed, tilt your head slightly forward, and insert the nasal applicator into the other nostril.
3. For each spray, press once on the shoulders of the applicator with your forefinger and middle finger, while supporting the base of the bottle with your thumb.
4. Breathe inward through the nostril, then breathe outward through your mouth.
5. Repeat in the other nostril.

Discard the bottle after 120 sprays. Any medication remaining in it will not be dispensed at the correct dosage.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature away from direct light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this medication.

More common side effects may include:

• coughing
• flu-like symptoms
• headache
• muscle and bone pain
• nosebleed
• painful menstruation
• respiratory tract infection
• sinus inflammation
• sore throat
• viral infection

Less common side effects may include:

• asthma
• bronchitis
• chest pain
• diarrhea
• earache
• eye inflammation
• flu-like symptoms
• indigestion
• joint pain
• muscle aches
• nausea
• pinkeye
• runny nose
• vomiting
• wheezing

Rare side effects may include:

• allergic reactions
• nasal ulcers
• swollen mouth and throat
• yeast infection in the nose or mouth

Why should Nasonex not be prescribed?

If Nasonex gives you an allergic reaction, you cannot continue using it.

Special warnings about Nasonex

If your allergy symptoms fail to improve--or get worse--while you are using Nasonex, inform your doctor.

When switching from steroid tablets to Nasonex nasal spray, some people develop withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and joint or muscle pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, tell your doctor.

In rare cases, a hypersensitivity to steroids or excessive use of Nasonex leads to menstrual irregularities, acne, obesity, and muscle weakness. If these symptoms occur, you should tell your doctor immediately. You may have to gradually discontinue use of this product under your doctor's supervision.

Steroids can slow down growth in children, so your doctor will monitor the situation carefully if your child is using Nasonex.

Steroids can suppress your immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to infection. Take extra care to avoid exposure to measles or chickenpox if you have never had them. If you are exposed, seek medical advice immediately.

For the same reason, if you develop a throat or nose infection while using Nasonex, stop taking it and call your doctor. Use Nasonex with caution--if at all--if you suffer from tuberculosis, herpes simplex infection of the eye, or an untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral infection.

Steroid nasal sprays have, on rare occasions, caused perforations in the wall between the nostrils. If you have sores in this area, or have recently had nose surgery or trauma to the nose, do not use Nasonex until the problem has healed.

In rare instances, steroid nasal sprays have also been known to raise pressure within the eyes and promote the development of cataracts. Use Nasonex with caution if you have either problem. If you notice any changes in your vision, report them to your doctor.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Nasonex

No interactions have been reported.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Nasonex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, alert your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether Nasonex appears in breast milk. However, other steroids do appear in breast milk and can harm a nursing infant. Your doctor may therefore suggest discontinuing Nasonex if you intend to breastfeed.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The recommended dose for adults and children 12 years of age and older is 2 sprays into each nostril once a day.

CHILDREN

For children 3 to 11 years of age, the recommended dose is one spray in each nostril once a day. The safety and effectiveness of Nasonex have not been established for children under 3.

Overdosage

A single overdose of Nasonex is unlikely to cause any harm. However, habitual overuse of the product can cause symptoms of steroid overload, including...

• menstrual irregularities
• acne
• obesity
• muscle weakness

Check with your doctor immediately if you develop such symptoms.