Beconase is the brand name for beclomethasone dipropionate, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid. According to Drugs.com, an online drug reference, this medication is taken through the nose by the use of a nasal inhaler and is available by many other brand names. This is a prescription medication and should only be taken under the supervision of a health care provider.
Uses
According to Drugs.com, Beconase medication is sprayed or inhaled into the nose to help relieve nose congestion, irritation and allergies. Beconase is also prescribed to help stop the regrowth of nasal polyps after surgery.
Proper Uses
Drugs.com states the airways of the nose should be cleared by blowing out the passages prior to using this medication. Place the tip of the medication container into one nostril and aim toward the inner corner of the eye and spray. This medication must be taken consistently to gain the most benefits. According to Drugs.com, Beconase takes approximately one week to begin working but may take up to three weeks before the full effects are noticed. Do not use this medication more than instructed by a health care provider. Drugs.com recommends saving the medication container since refills can be purchased at a lower cost. If a dose is skipped, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not double up doses of this medication.
Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, a health care provider should be notified if any of the following side effects from Beconase occur: blindness, bloody mucous from the nose, nosebleeds, blurred vision, burning or stinging inside the nose, crusting sores inside the nose, redness or drainage from the eye, eye discomfort, headache, hives, dizziness, loss of ability to taste or smell, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, difficulty breathing or chest tightness.
Overdose
Drugs.com states overdose can occur with the use of Beconase or other corticosteroid nasal sprays. Symptoms include acne, blurred vision, bone fractures, increased hair growth in females, rounding of the face, neck and trunk, high blood pressure, impotence in males, increased urine output or thirst, absence of menstrual periods and muscle wasting and weakness.
Warnings
According to RxList, The Internet Drug Index, patients with a compromised immune system should not take Beconase. Corticosteriods can increase the severity of infections, and patients can experience serious or fatal results. RxList states the use of Beconase can occasionally cause yeast infection inside the nasal passages. This type of infection may require additional treatment, or Beconase may need to be discontinued. Continued use of this medication requires occasional assessment of the inside of the nose to look for changes to the mucosal lining.
Federal Approval
Beconase is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug administration for the treatment of symptoms of nasal allergies.
