Nasal spray is a common medication used to provide relief from runny nose or sneezing symptoms. The usage of nasal spray is familiar in those with allergies or sinus issues. Patients with such symptoms would find that nasal spray such as Nasonex 50 mg can be a great relief. There are many kinds of nasal spray available in the market, targeted to help relieve symptoms affecting the nose. Since there are many kinds of nasal spray, is Nasonex a steroid spray?
Yes, Nasonex can be considered as a steroid spray. Nasonex contains a steroid known as mometasone. Mometasone works by reducing inflammation along the nasal passage. Inflammation is a body reaction and this process is responsible for the runny nose, itching and sneezing symptoms. Nasonex also helps to decrease mucus production by reducing the inflammation process through shrinking of the congested blood vessels and expanding the airways. You probably wonder how Nasonex actually reduces inflammation. It mainly works by preventing the release of the substances that could have triggered the inflammation process.
Nasonex is used to treat nasal symptoms of allergies such as seasonal allergy/hay fever (allergy reaction that occur during certain time of the years such as spring season), nasal polyp (growth of the lining of the sinuses and nasal passages) and rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nasal cavity and sinus). Nasonex can be used for children as young as 2 years old. Nasonex should only be used under medical supervision. This is because it is important to not use it in the wrong way or for a long period of time that could increase risk for adverse side effects.
Nasonex is best to be used daily on a regular basis. Regular use of the medication can help patients to gain maximal benefits. Using it at the same time of the day may help patients to remember the usage of the medication regularly. Dose can be once or twice daily. Patients need to only deliver the spray as prescribed by the doctor and to not change the dose by altering the dose or frequency. Patients should be able to feel a sense of improvement within the first 2 days of using it but it may take up to 2 weeks before the medicine can fully work. If this medicine does not improve symptoms even after using it for 2 weeks or causing worsening symptoms, patients should tell their doctor as this could be a sign of other conditions such as infection. Severe facial pain, thick nasal discharge or weird whistling sound from the nose should be immediately addressed to the doctor. Nasonex should not be used more than a month unless instructed by doctors and with medical supervision.
Nasonex, just as with other drugs prescribed by doctors in treating diseases or symptoms, do have possible side effects. Common side effects include nose or throat dryness, blood-stained phlegm and nosebleed. If side effects persist and begin to cause discomfort, patients should meet their doctor and address this issue. Prolonged use of Nasonex may increase the chance for the corticosteroid content to be absorbed into the blood system but it is considered rare. When corticosteroids from Nasonex enter the blood, it may lead to serious side effects such as fatigue, swelling of the limb especially ankle or feet, vision problems and unintentional weight loss.
In essence, Nasonex is a steroid spray. You may be confused to come across the term corticosteroid and steroid but it is almost the exact same thing. Nasonex should always be used under medical supervision and should not be used more than 1 month unless instructed by doctors. Side effects may cause worries or some uneasiness but it is worth noting that doctors will always prescribe medications after thorough evaluation and consideration. However, should any possible side effect occur, it needs to be addressed to the doctors for discussion.
Avoid spraying Nasonex directly onto the middle wall of the nose. Avoid spraying Nasonex to the eyes and mouth. Remember to shake the container well before delivering any spray. Nasonex should not be used on an injured nose or when damages are present in the nose. Nasonex should only be used when it is prescribed by a doctor. Never take antibiotics without a prescription from a doctor as this may not be effective in reducing symptoms. Avoid self-treat with traditional remedies without discussing with a healthcare professional. Medication may not only be steroid nasal spray but also may be decongestant, antihistamine and pain relief. Beside from taking medication, taking extra step such as using humidifier or vaporizer, use medicated ointment containing menthol or camphor on the chest or upper lip, avoiding smoke and alcohol, avoiding extreme temperature such as hot day or cold temperature and avoid food or drinks high in caffeine or salt, can greatly help to reduce symptoms much faster compared to depending on medicine alone. These extra steps should not take the place of the medication prescribed by doctors.
