Nasonex

What is the most important information I should know about Nasonex?

• Do not use more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much may cause serious side effects.
• Use Nasonex on a regular basis for best results. It may take several weeks to get the maximum effect of this medication.
• Avoid exposing yourself to known sources of infection. Stay away from people with chicken pox, measles, or any other type of infectious disease. Your immune system may not be strong enough to fight off an infection while you are using Nasonex.
  

What is Nasonex?

• Nasonex is a steroid. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.
• Nasonex is used nasally to prevent and treat the nasal symptoms of allergies and other seasonal reactions. Nasonex is also used treat nasal polyps.
• Nasonex may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
  

Who should not use Nasonex?

• Before using Nasonex, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you have a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection of any kind. The absorption of this drug into your system can inhibit your body's ability to fight off infections. You may not be able to use Nasonex if you have an infection.
• Before using Nasonex, tell your doctor if you have
  · a nasal septum ulcer,
  · recently had nasal surgery, or
  · nasal damage.
• You may not be able to use Nasonex, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment.
• Nasonex is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Nasonex will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• It is unknown whether Nasonex passes into breast milk. Do not use Nasonex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.
• Nasonex is not approved for use by children younger than 3 years of age.
  

How should I use Nasonex?

• Use Nasonex spray exactly as directed by your doctor. Read the information insert included with your medication. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Shake the medication well before each dose.
• If your nose is congested, try to clear it before using your medication to be sure that the medicine gets into your nasal passages. If you are also using a decongestant spray, use it to open up your nasal passages before using Nasonex. However, do not use a decongestant spray unless your doctor approves.
• Remove the plastic dust cap from the nasal applicator. Prior to initial use of Nasonex spray, the pump must be primed by spraying ten times or until a fine spray appears. The pump may be stored unused for up to 1 week without repriming. If unused for more than one week, reprime by pumping two times, or until a fine spray appears.
• Close one nostril and tilt your head slightly forward. Insert the tip of the nasal applicator about 1 cm (one-half inch) into your nostril, pointing it straight up into the nasal canal. Press firmly downward once on the shoulders of the applicator, using your forefinger and middle finger while supporting the base of the bottle with your thumb. Breathe gently inward through the nostril as you pump. Then breathe out through the mouth. Repeat this process for the number of sprays prescribed by your doctor. Remove the pump from your nose. Repeat this procedure in the other nostril then replace the dust cap.
• Do not use more of this medication than prescribed for you. Never use more than 2 sprays in each nostril (200 mcg total) per day. It may take a few weeks to see the effects of Nasonex. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
• Do not spray Nasonex into the eyes.
• To clean the applicator, remove the plastic dust cap and pull gently on the nasal applicator so that it comes free. Wash the applicator and dust cap with cold water. Dry and replace the applicator and dust cap.
• Store Nasonex at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid prolonged exposure of the product to direct light when Nasonex is removed from its cardboard container.
  

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.
  

What happens if I overdose?

• An overdose of this medication is not likely to occur. If you do think that an overdose has occurred, call an emergency room or poison control center .
  

What should I avoid while using Nasonex?

• Avoid items or activities that you know are allergens for you if they make your symptoms worse. Clean areas where dust or pet fur may aggravate your condition.
• Avoid exposing yourself to known sources of infection. Stay away from people with chicken pox, measles, or any other type of infectious disease. Your immune system may not be strong enough to fight off an infection while you are using Nasonex.
  

What are the possible side effects of Nasonex?

• Serious side effects from Nasonex are not likely to occur. Stop using Nasonex and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use Nasonex and talk to your doctor if you experience
  · headache;
  · viral infection;
  · sore throat;
  · bleeding nose;
  · coughing;
  · upper respiratory tract infection;
  · painful menstruation;
  · muscle pain; or
  · stinging or burning of the nose.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
  

What other drugs will affect Nasonex?

• Before using this medication, tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other drugs you are taking. The use of other oral or inhaled steroids may increase your chance of side effects or overdose.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Nasonex. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
  

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist has additional information about Nasonex written for health professionals that you may read.