About budesonide nasal spray

Budesonide nasal spray is used to prevent and relieve rhinitis. This is when the inside of the nose is inflamed and irritated. Common symptoms include: sneezing, a blocked or congested nose, a watery discharge (runny nose), and an itchy nose. It is commonly caused by hay fever and other allergies.

Exposure to irritants such as pollen, pet fur, house dust mite, or pollution can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes the lining of the nose to become swollen and itchy which in turn causes the sneezing and other symptoms. Budesonide nasal spray reduces inflammation and swelling and so relieves the congestion, itching, sneezing, irritation and discomfort.

Budesonide nasal spray is also used for nasal polyps, which are small growths inside the nose that can cause symptoms similar to rhinitis.

Before using budesonide nasal spray

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using budesonide, it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you have an infection in your nose.
• If you have recently had any surgery on your nose.
• If you have tuberculosis (TB).
• If you are under 12 years of age.
• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before you start this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. This will give you a step-by-step guide of how to use the spray, and will also give you a full list of possible side-effects from using it.
• When you first start using budesonide, it is usual to use either two sprays into both nostrils each morning, or one spray into both nostrils twice a day. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you which is right for you. Once your symptoms are controlled, you will be advised to reduce this to just one spray into both nostrils once a day. It is important that you use the spray regularly, even if your symptoms are controlled. Treatment with budesonide may be continued for up to three months, but your doctor will advise you how long is right for you.
• Do not use the spray more frequently or for longer periods than your doctor has recommended. This can increase the risk of side-effects.
• If you are using the spray for hay fever, your doctor may recommend that you start using it 2-3 weeks before the hay fever season starts. This is because it takes a few days of treatment before you feel the full effect, so starting before the pollen count rises will help prevent symptoms from developing.

How to use budesonide nasal spray

Before you use the spray for the first time, pump the nozzle up and down about five times into the air until you can see an even mist.

• Blow your nose gently.
• Shake the bottle and remove the protective cap.
• Put one finger on each side of the nozzle and then insert the nozzle of the spray into one of your nostrils (take care to keep the bottle upright as you do this). Press down on the nozzle to administer one spray (repeat this if you have been told to use two sprays).
• Use the spray in the other nostril by repeating this process.
• Wipe the nozzle with a tissue and replace the protective cap. (If the nozzle becomes blocked, you can remove it from the bottle and rinse it under warm water).

Can budesonide nasal spray cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store budesonide nasal spray

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store the spray upright in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light. It can be used for up to two months after the bottle has first been opened. After this time, get a fresh supply.

Important information about all medicines