Beconase Nasal Spray

What is Beconase?

Beconase is a nasal spray that contains that active ingredient beclometasone dipropionate. It has anti-allergic effects and local anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps to reduce the release of mediators of allergic reactions. Beconase is used to help reduce the symptoms of hay fever.

How do I use Beconase?

1. Remove the dust cap (remember to replace it after use)
2. Shake bottle well.
3. Gently blow your nose
4. Press your finger up against one nostril to close it and place the nozzle of the bottle into the other nostril.
5. Lean your head slightly forward
6. Breathe in slowly and at the same time that you are breathing in, press down with your fingers on the applicator to release one pump of the medicine into your nostril as per the Patient Information Leaflet.
7. Breathe out through your mouth and repeat process.
8. Remove the bottle from the nostril and place into the other nostril and repeat the process.

The usual dose is TWO sprays into EACH nostril TWICE daily. When you find that your symptoms are under control, you can reduce this to ONE spray into EACH nostril TWICE daily.

If it is the first time you are using a bottle of Beconase you need to prime it. To do this remove the dust cap, point the applicator away from you and pump the applicator 10 times until you can see a fine spray of medication being released from the bottle.

If you have not used Beconase for 14 days or more then you will need to prime it again. To do this pump it 2 times until a fine spray of medication appears.

What is hay fever?

Hay fever is a common condition characterised by sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. It is an allergic condition where the patient is typically sensitive to pollen. Although it is not usually serious, it can be very irritating and frustrating for the patient.

Pollen can be found in plants such as trees, grass and weeds. You can be allergic to particular types of pollen and find that symptoms are worse at certain times of the day and year and in certain places.

Where can I buy Beconase?

If you are interested in this medicine, why not fill out our consultation questionnaire? This will be reviewed by one of our expert clinicians who will advise if this medicine is suitable and safe for you.

Is there anybody who cannot use Beconase?

Do not use Beconase if you are allergic or hypersensitive to any of the ingredients in this medicine. Do not use if you have had recent trauma to the nose or if you had nasal surgery as Beconase may slow wound healing. Do not use if there is any infection in the nose such as herpes simplex.

Beconase cannot be purchased from Medexpress if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant or breastfeeding

Beconase should not be used in unilateral polyps unless under the advice of a specialist following further investigation.

We are unable to supply Beconase to you if you have active or inactive tuberculosis, or any form of untreated infection. Please consult with your GP if you are unsure. You should also consult with your GP before use if you are taking corticosteroids; are immunocompromised due to taking corticosteroids or otherwise; or have cystic fibrosis.

Do not use Beconase in the case of nasal septum perforation or if you have any heart, liver or kidney problems.

Beconase should be used with caution in those who have or had cataracts, glaucoma or raised intraoccular pressure. Please consult with your GP.

Caution: Please seek advice from your GP if you need to use this for several months. There have been reports of patients developing infection in the nasal cavity. Please consult with your GP if you are unsure.

Beconase contains benzalkonium chloride. Some people are sensitive to this and it can cause irritation to them. If you have ever been sensitive to benzalkonium chloride in the past, consult with your doctor before using Beconase.

Beconase should be used within 2 months of opening. If any medicine remains after two months, please bring to your local pharmacy where they can dispose of it for you.

Non Pharmacological treatment for hay fever

It is important to try to avoid the pollen that is causing your hay fever. Keep windows and doors closed in your house and car; and leave shoes worn outside, outside. Take a shower when you come in from being outdoors and change your clothes. You can apply a small amount of Vaseline to the entrance of your nostrils. This will help to trap the pollen from entering your nose and will help to reduce the symptoms of your hay fever. Wearing large wraparound sunglasses will also help to reduce the pollen entering your eyes. It is a good idea to keep a diary and note when your symptoms are at their worst and to look at the pollen count forecast so you can avoid going outdoors on days where the pollen count of your allergen is particularly high. A pollen count forecast can be found at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/health/public/pollen-forecast . If you find that after following the above advice you still experience severe hay fever symptoms, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further treatment options.

Side Effects

All medications have the potential to cause side effects. These side effects can change from person to person. The most common side effects associated with Beconase include nose bleeds, nasal burning, headache and nasal ulceration. If you do experience any side effects while using this medicine, please contact both MedExpress and your GP.