The usual dose of Nasonex is two sprays into each nostril once daily. Once your symptoms are under control the dose should be reduced to one spray in each nostril daily. Whilst suitable for regular daily use it is advisable to discontinue this medicine periodically, especially if your rhinitis is seasonal.

Symptoms should start improving within a few days but the real benefits obtained from Nasonex only occur if the medicine is used every day to prevent symptoms rather than treat them.

Preparing your nasal spray for use:

Your Nasonex Nasal Spray has a dust cap which protects the nozzle and keeps it clean. Remember to take this off before using the spray and to replace it after use. If you are using the spray for the first time you need to ‘prime’ the bottle by pumping the spray 10 times until a fine mist is produced.

• Gently shake the bottle.
• Put your forefinger and middle finger on either side of the nozzle and your thumb underneath the bottle. Do Not pierce the nasal applicator.
• Point the nozzle away from you and then press down with your fingers to pump the spray 10 times until a fine mist is produced.
• If you have not used the spray for 14 days or more, you need to “re-prime” the bottle by pumping the spray 2 times until a fine mist is produced.

Using your nasal spray:

• Shake the bottle gently and remove the dust cap.
• Gently blow your nose.
• Close one nostril and put the nozzle into the other nostril as shown. Tilt your head forward slightly, keeping the bottle upright.
• Start to breathe in gently or slowly through your nose and whilst you are breathing in squirt a spray of fine mist into your nose by pressing down ONCE with your fingers.
• Breathe out through your mouth. Repeat step 4 to inhale a second spray in the same nostril if applicable.
• Remove the nozzle from this nostril and breathe out through the mouth.
• Repeat steps 3 to 6 for the other nostril. After using the spray, wipe the nozzle carefully with a clean handkerchief or tissue and replace the dust cap.

What side effects could I expect?

This steroid nasal spray is generally well tolerated but the following side effects tend to be the most common affecting around 1 in 10 individuals:

• Headache
• Sneezing
• Nose bleeds
• Sore nose or throat
• ulcer in the nose
• Respiratory tract infection

Some side effects can be more severe:

Allergic reactions may occur after use of this product. These reactions may be severe. You should stop taking Nasonex and get immediate medical help if you experience symptoms:

• swollen face, tongue or pharynx
• trouble swallowing
• hives
• wheezing or trouble breathing

When corticosteroid nasal sprays are used at high doses for long periods of time, side effects may occur
due to the drug being absorbed in the body.  Always use the lowest effective dose and periodically stop using the medicine to see if symptoms return.  

This list is not exhaustive and for less common side effects please refer to the patient information leaflet.

Please follow the link to view the patient information leaflet