Brand Name

Beconase AQ {GlaxoSmithKline}

Generic Name

beclomethasone (nasal), pronounced be kloe METH a sone

What is Beconase AQ?

Beconase AQ is a nasal spray that is used to treat symptoms of seasonal or year-round allergies. This medication is a steroid, and works by alleviating allergy symptoms such as congestion, sneezing and a runny nose. Beconase may have been prescribed for you to keep nasal polyps from growing back if you have had surgery to remove them.

Beconase AQ may also be prescribed for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Key Facts About Beconase AQ

Beconase AQ is a steroid that can help to prevent a release of substances in the body which may cause inflammation.

Only use the dose of Beconase AQ that your doctor has prescribed for you, and do not use it for longer than your doctor recommends. Be sure to follow all of the instructions on your prescription to use Beconase AQ safely. Your doctor can answer any questions you may have about your individual risks, and benefits, for using Beconase AQ.

Beconase AQ is in FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Beconase AQ can be harmful to an unborn baby. You should tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before using Beconase AQ. Do not use Beconase AQ if you are breastfeeding as it is not known if Beconase AQ passes into breast milk.

Beconase AQ should not be given to children under age 6. Because Beconase AQ can affect growth in children you should talk to your doctor if your child is taking Beconase AQ and is not growing at a normal rate.

The use of steroids, like Beconase AQ, can lower the blood cells that help your body fight infections. Take care to avoid being around people who are ill and have infections while you are taking Beconase AQ. Tell your doctor immediately if you are exposed to chicken pox or measles as these conditions can be serious and even fatal for patients taking Beconase AQ.

Before You Take Beconase AQ

You should not take Beconase AQ if you are allergic to beclomethasone or if you are currently ill or have an infection.

You should talk to your doctor before taking Beconase AQ if you have glaucoma, cataracts or herpes simplex virus of your eyes.

If you have sores or ulcers inside your nose you should tell your doctor before taking Beconase AQ.

If you have recently had surgery inside your nose you should tell your doctor before starting treatment with Beconase AQ.

Tell your doctor if you have any type of bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, or a history of tuberculosis before taking Beconase AQ.

Beconase AQ Drug Interactions

There are no known drugs that Interact with Beconase AQ. However, you should tell your doctor about all of the medications you use. This includes prescription drugs, vitamins, supplements and herbal products, and over the counter medications. You should not begin taking a new medication without telling your doctor first.

Directions for Taking Beconase AQ

You should take Beconase AQ exactly how it was prescribed for you. You should not use Beconase AQ in larger or smaller amounts, or use it for longer or shorter than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions exactly on your prescription label.

A patient instruction guide comes with your Beconase AQ prescription which gives you instructions for safe and effective use of this medication. Be sure to follow the instructions for using Beconase AQ carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

The typical Beconase AQ dose is 1 to 2 sprays into each nostril one time daily.

Be sure to shake Beconase AQ very well before using it each time.

Take care to avoid getting Beconase AQ in your eyes.

It may take up to two weeks for Beconase AQ to begin working and alleviating your allergy symptoms.

Beconase AQ should be stored at room temperature, and away from light and heat, in an upright position.

Dispose of Beconase AQ after 180 sprays, even if you still hear some medicine left in the bottle.

If you miss a dose of Beconase AQ you should attempt to take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose do not take the missed dose in addition to your regular dose.

Beconase AQ Side Effects

If you experience any of the following adverse effects you should stop taking Beconase AQ and seek emergency medical help immediately:

• allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling of your face, lips, throat or tongue
• eye pain and vision difficulties, such a blurred vision or seeing halos around lights
• fever and chills with body aches and flu-like symptoms
• nose bleed that is ongoing or severe
• sores in your nose that won’t heal
• respiratory symptoms that are worsening, including wheezing or breathing problems

Less serious side effects may include:

• dry and irritated mouth, nose or throat
• headache
• lightheadedness
• nausea
• mild rash and itching
• runny nose
• sneezing
• sores or white patches inside or around your nose
• stuffy nose
• unpleasant smell or taste

It should be noted that this is not a complete list of possible side effects of Beconase AQ. You should contact your physician for a complete list and medical advice regarding these effects.

Beconase AQ Description and Dosing

Beconase AQ is available as a 42 mcg metered-dose, manual pump spray unit, and is supplied in an amber glass bottle fitted with a metering atomizing pump and nasal adapter. Each bottle contains 25 g of suspension and will provide 180 metered sprays.

Beconase AQ is prescribed based on the individual need of each patient. Your doctor will tell you the right dose for you.

If you suspect that you have overdosed with Beconase AQ you should seek emergency help immediately.

Ingredients in Beconase AQ

Beconase AQ is comprised of the main ingredient beclomethasone dipropionate. Additional inactive ingredients are microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, dextrose, benzalkonium chloride, polysorbate 80 and phenylethyl alcohol.

Back to Top

The information contained in this drug guide is intended as an educational resource only. This guide is not exhaustive and does not contain all available information about this drug.This guide is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment.

The information provided in this guide does not replace the need for the advice and services of medical professionals or the need for medical examination. Always talk to your physician or pharmacist before taking any prescription medication or over the counter drugs (including any supplements) or before making any changes to your treatment. Only your doctor, nurse or pharmacist can provide you with safe and effective advice regarding your drug treatment.

The use of the information in this guide is at your sole risk. This information is provided "AS IS" with no warranties to accuracy or timeliness.

**All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.