Beclometasone inhaled

About Beclometasone (Inhaled)

This belongs to the group of medicines known as corticosteroids.

Beclometasone can be used to treat asthma.

Corticosteroids are inhaled to help prevent asthma attacks and to ease breathing problems. They work by reducing swelling and irritation in the small air passages of the lungs.

Beclometasone is available in metered dose inhaler and inhalation powder form.

Beclometasone is also written as Beclomethasone, you may notice either spelling on the packaging.

It is also sometimes known as: Aerobec; Asmabec; Beclazone; Becloforte; Becodisks; Becotide; Filair; Pulvinal Beclomethasone; Qvar. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using Beclometasone (Inhaled)

Before using Beclometasone make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from glaucoma or cataracts
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use Beclometasone (Inhaled)

• Use Beclometasone exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment. Different types of inhaler are used in different ways. If you are unsure how to use your inhaler ask your pharmacist for advice.
• Use your inhaler at regular intervals as directed by your doctor.
• If you are using a high dose of Beclometasone, you will also have been given a steroid card. You must carry the card with you at all times.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Beclometasone contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• Beclometasone is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Beclometasone.
• Do not stop using Beclometasone without speaking to your doctor first.
• Beclometasone will not give you immediate relief if you are having an asthma attack. You will need a reliever medicine to ease the symptoms of an attack.
• Some Beclometasone inhalers now contain CFC free propellants, which may feel and taste different. If you experience any problems with this type of inhaler you should speak to your doctor.
• Beclometasone may occasionally cause hoarseness or oral thrush. Rinsing the mouth out with water and spitting out after each dose (or brushing a child's teeth) may help to prevent irritation or thrush.
• Before you have any surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon you are using Beclometasone.
• Keep your regular doctors appointments so your progress can be monitored.
• Do not smoke. Smoking causes severe irritation and damage to the lungs. It will make your condition worse and will reduce the beneficial effects of your medication.
• If you have diabetes: Check your blood glucose levels regularly as this preparation can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.

Can Beclometasone (Inhaled) cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following symptoms continue or become troublesome:

Hoarseness or oral thrush.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Beclometasone (Inhaled)

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 07/02/2005