Brad names: AeroBec, BDP Spacehaler, Beclazone, Becloforte, Becodisks,Beconase, Becotide, Filair
Used in the following combined preparation Ventide
General Information
Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid drug prescribed to relieve the symptoms of
allergic rhinitis (as a nasal spray) and to control asthma (as an inhalant). It
controls nasal symptoms by reducing inflammation and mucus production in the
nose. It also helps to reduce chest symptoms, such as wheezing and coughing.
Asthma sufferers may take it regularly to reduce the severity and frequency of
attacks. However, once an attack has started, the drug does
not relieve symptoms.
Beclomethasone is given primarily to people whose asthma has not responded to bronchodilators alone . Beclomethasone is also used as the main ingredient in some skin creams and ointments (see Topical corticosteroids ).
There are few serious adverse effects associated with beclomethasone as it is
given topically by nasal spray or inhaler. Fungal infections causing irritation
of the mouth and throat are a possible side effect of inhaling beclomethasone.
These can be avoided to some degree by rinsing the mouth and gargling with water after each inhalation.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Corticosteroid
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed No (some preparations)
Available as generic No
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without
checking with your doctor.
How taken
Ointment, inhaler, nasal spray.
Frequency and timing of doses
2-4 x daily.
Dosage range
Adults 1-2 puffs 3-4 x daily according to preparation used (asthma); 1-2 sprays
in each nostril 2-4 x daily (allergic rhinitis); as directed (skin conditions).
Children Reduced dose according to age and weight.
Onset of effect
Within 1 week (asthma); 1-3 days (allergic rhinitis). Full benefit may not be
felt for up to 4 weeks.
Duration of action
Several days after stopping the drug.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a
single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Sometimes a gradual reduction in dosage is recommended.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern.
But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken,
notify your doctor. Adverse effects may occur if the recommended dose is
regularly exceeded over a prolonged period.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The main side effects of the nasal spray and inhaler are irritation of the nasal
passages and fungal infection of the throat and mouth. More
serious side effects, such as permanent skin changes, may be seen with the
ointment.
INTERACTIONS
None.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have had tuberculosis or another respiratory infection.
You have a skin infection (ointment).
You have varicose ulcers (ointment).
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
No evidence of risk.
Breast-feeding
No evidence of risk.
Infants and children
Reduced dose necessary. Avoid prolonged use of ointment in infants and children.
Over 60
No known problems.
Driving and hazardous work
No known problems.
Alcohol
No known problems.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected when used for asthma or rhinitis. Prolonged use of ointment
should be avoided where possible because it can cause permanent skin changes,
particularly on the face, and can also lead to adrenal suppression.
Monitoring Periodic checks to make sure that the adrenal gland is functioning
healthily may be required it large doses are being used.
