Rhinocort Aqua

Generic name: Budesonide

What is Rhinocort Aqua?

Rhinocort Aqua is an anti-inflammatory steroid nasal spray. It is prescribed for relief of the symptoms of hay fever and similar allergic nasal inflammations.

What is the most important information I should know about Rhinocort Aqua?

Because steroids can suppress the immune system, people taking Rhinocort Aqua may become more susceptible to infections, and their infections could be more severe. Anyone taking Rhinocort Aqua or other corticosteroids who has not had infections such as chickenpox and measles should avoid exposure to them. If you are taking Rhinocort Aqua and are exposed, tell your doctor immediately.

If you develop an infection of your nose and throat, stop using Rhinocort Aqua and call your doctor. If you already have tuberculosis or any other kind of infection, be sure your doctor knows about it.

If you have been taking a steroid in tablet form, such as prednisone, and are switched to Rhinocort Aqua, you may have symptoms of withdrawal, such as joint or muscle pain, lethargy, and depression. If you have been taking another steroid for a long time for asthma, your asthma may get worse if your medication is cut back too quickly. Using Rhinocort Aqua with another steroid drug can decrease the body's normal ability to make its own steroid chemicals.

Use this drug with caution in children and teenagers. It can affect their rate of growth.

Who should not take Rhinocort Aqua?

Do not use Rhinocort Aqua if you have recently had nasal ulcers, nasal surgery or a nasal injury; this drug would slow the healing process. You will also need to avoid Rhinocort if it gives you an allergic reaction.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Rhinocort Aqua?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver problems or symptoms of an infection, or if you already take prednisone or any other steroid medication.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The recommended starting dose is 64 micrograms per day administered as 1 spray in each nostril once a day. The maximum recommended dose is 4 sprays per nostril once a day.

Children more than 12 years old: The recommended starting dose is 64 micrograms per day administered as 1 spray in each nostril once a day. The maximum recommended dose is 2 sprays per nostril once a day.

Children 6 to 12 years old: The recommended starting dose is 64 micrograms per day administered as 1 spray per nostril once a day. The maximum recommended dose is 2 sprays per nostril once a day.

How should I take Rhinocort Aqua?

Before using Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray, shake the container gently and prime the pump by spraying it 8 times. If used daily, the pump does not need to be reprimed. If not used for two consecutive days, reprime with one spray or until a fine mist appears. If not used for more than 14 days, rinse the applicator and reprime with two sprays or until a fine mist appears. Discard the bottle after 120 sprays, since the amount of drug in each spray will decline substantially after that point.

Relief may begin within 10 hours. Most improvement occurs during the first 1 or 2 days, but it may take as long as 2 weeks to achieve the maximum benefits. If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, or the condition grows worse, check with your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Rhinocort Aqua?

Do not use doses that are larger than recommended. Avoid exposure to people who have infections such as chickenpox and measles.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Rhinocort Aqua?

If Rhinocort Aqua is taken with certain other drugs, its effects could be increased. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Rhinocort Aqua with the following: cimetidine, clarithromycin, erythromycin, itraconazole, and ketoconazole.

What are the possible side effects of Rhinocort Aqua?

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

Side effects may include: nosebleeds, sore throat

Can I receive Rhinocort Aqua if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Rhinocort Aqua should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. The effect of this drug on nursing infants is also unknown, although we do know that similar drugs have been found in breast milk. It should be used with caution by women who breastfeed.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Rhinocort Aqua?

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.

How should I store Rhinocort Aqua?

Store at room temperature with the valve up. Protect from light and do not freeze.