Nasonex – (Mometasone)

What is Nasonex?
Nasonex is a steroid. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Mometasone is used nasally to prevent and treat the nasal symptoms of allergies and other seasonal reactions.

What are the most common 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.

How do I take Nasonex?
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.

What 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.

Are there any drug interactions with 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.

Is there any additional information about Nasonex that I should know?
Before using Nasonex, tell your doctor if you have a nasal septum ulcer, recently had nasal surgery, or nasal damage. 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.   Do not spray Nasonex into the eyes. Nasonex is not approved for use by children younger than 3 years of age. It is unknown whether mometasone passes into breast milk. Do not use Nasonex without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

How do I store Nasonex?
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.