Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray (Budesonide)

Do’s

• If you are taking the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist.
• If your healthcare provider has prescribed this medication, read the Patient Information Leaflet before you start using it and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
• The usual dosage involves 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril once or twice a day or as directed by your healthcare provider. 
• The dosage may vary based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Younger children may require a smaller dose and assistance from an adult to use this medication properly.
• Before using the nasal spray, gently blow your nose and shake the container.
• Properly prime the spray pump if you are using it for the first time or if you have not used it for 2 or more days.
• To use the spray, remove the plastic cap, close one nostril by pressing it with your finger, tilt your head slightly forward, and carefully insert the nasal applicator into the other nostril. 
• Press down firmly on the pump to deliver the prescribed number of sprays while gently breathing in through the nose, keeping your mouth closed.
• After spraying, remove the applicator tip and tilt your head back for a few seconds to allow the medication to spread over the back of your nose.
• Repeat the process in the other nostril.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it.
• The medication may not work right away, and it may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Consult your healthcare provider if you should also use other medications along with this drug until it takes full effect.
• Keep track of the number of sprays used from the bottle and discard the bottle after you have used the specified number of sprays.
• If your condition does not improve after 2 weeks, or if it worsens, stop using this medication and consult your healthcare provider.
• If you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek medical help right away.

Don’ts

• Do not spray directly onto the middle wall of your nose (nasal septum).
• Avoid blowing your nose for 15 minutes after using this medication.
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than directed. 
• Do not pour any remaining medication into another container.

Common Side Effects:

• Nosebleeds
• Irritation or burning in the nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Unpleasant taste or smell

Less Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Sinus pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unusual tiredness

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

• Vision changes
• Severe or persistent nosebleeds
• Pain or sores in the nose
• White patches in the nose or throat
• Fever
• Persistent sore throat

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while using Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray, seek medical attention promptly.

Caution should be exercised when considering the use of Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Exercise caution when co-administering Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray with long-term ketoconazole and other known strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

Acute overdosage with Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray is unlikely, but chronic overdosage may result in signs/symptoms of hypercorticism.

Corticosteroids such as Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray may impair the growth of children and adolescents. Monitoring by a healthcare provider is necessary.

Budesonide, the active ingredient in Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray, passes into breast milk and may affect the baby. Consult a healthcare provider if you are a breastfeeding mother and are considering using Rhinocort Aqua Nasal Spray.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions, and individuals should always consult their healthcare provider for personalized advice.