Rhinocort (budesonide) is a medication primarily used to treat allergic rhinitis. Rhinocort has also been used to help patients who are in remission with Crohn's disease remain in remission. For asthma patients, Rhinocort has been used to provide further control of disease symptoms. Rhinocort is classed as a corticosteroid; therefore prescription is necessary and patients taking Rhinocort should be followed by a physician.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Patients taking Rhinocort (budesonide) may experience nervousness, agitation, headache, and dizziness. Patients may experience drowsiness and confusion, as well as emotional instability. Facial swelling and difficulty sleeping may also be experienced by some people taking Rhinocort.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Rhinocort (budesonide) use may cause some patients to feel chest tightness and pain, a symptom which should be reported to a physician. Elevated blood pressure may also result from Rhinocort use so patients with a history of hypertension should monitor their blood pressure. Palpitations and a fast heart rate may also be experienced while taking Rhinocort. Severe or persistent symptoms should be reported to a physician.
Respiratory System Side Effects
Patients taking Rhinocort (budesonide) may experience a sore throat, pharyngitis, cough, and hoarseness. Shortness of breath, wheezing, and bronchospasm (narrowing of airways) may be experienced by some patients; these symptoms could become severe and should be assessed by a physician.
Dermatologic Side Effects
Rhinocort (budesonide) may cause rash and itching in some patients. Patients with a history of eczema may experience exacerbation of this condition while taking Rhinocort.
General Side Effects
Rhinocort (budesonide) can cause some generalized side effects such as fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and fever. Patients may experience mild tremors and numbness and tingling to extremities while taking Rhinocort. When taking Rhinocort nasal spray, patients may experience sinusitis, nasal irritation, and nose bleeds. Allergic reactions to Rhinocort are possible and can be severe; patients with sensitivities to any of the ingredients in Rhinocort should not take this medication.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends notifying your physician that you are taking Rhinocort; all medications, including over the counter medications. should be reported to your doctor while taking Rhinocort to prevent possible drug interactions. If Rhinocort does not alleviate patient symptoms after 2 weeks of use, or if symptoms worsen, patients should be evaluated by a physician. The NIH also recommends those patients with a weakened immune system, or those who have chronic or untreated infections, should not take Rhinocort.
References
- National Institute of Health Daily Med Sheet
- Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010.
