Mometasone nasal spray

About mometasone nasal spray

Mometasone nasal spray can be used by adults and children from the age of 6 years to prevent or ease the symptoms of allergic 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 caused by hay fever and other allergies.

Exposure to irritants such as pollen, pet fur, or house dust mite 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. Mometasone reduces inflammation and swelling and so relieves the congestion, itching, sneezing, irritation and discomfort.

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

Before using mometasone 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 mometasone, 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 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 mometasone, it is usual to use two sprays into both nostrils each morning for adults, and just one spray into each nostril each morning for children. This dose may then be adjusted depending upon how well your symptoms are controlled. It is important that you use the spray regularly, even if your symptoms are controlled. Your doctor will advise you how long to use the spray for.
• 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 about 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 to prevent symptoms from developing.
• If you need to use this spray over several months, your doctor may want to monitor your progress. This is particularly important for children who use this spray.

How to use mometasone nasal spray

Before you use the spray for the first time, you need to 'prime' the bottle by pumping the spray into the air about ten times until you see a fine 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). Next, breathe in through your nose and press down on the nozzle once. Breathe out through your mouth, and then if you are using two sprays, repeat this step.
• Use the spray in the other nostril by repeating the above step.
• 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 mometasone 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.

How to store mometasone nasal spray

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

Important information about all medicines