Medications (Adult asthma)

12) Nasal steroid treatments

Please note there is no audio for this animation.

Drug name Device How its taken Side effects
  • Beclometasone (Beconase®, Nasobec®)
  • Budesonide (Rhinocort®)
  • Fluticasone (Flixonase®, Avamys®, Nasofan®)
  • Mometasone (Nasonex®)
  • Triamcinolone (Nasacort®)
 Nasal spray How often? Use as prescribed by your doctor. It may take a few days for this type of medication to work.

  • Blow your nose and shake the bottle.
  • Tilt your head forward.
  • Hold the spray bottle upright.
  • Insert the tip of the spray bottle just inside one nostril. Close the other nostril with your other hand, and apply one or two sprays as prescribed.
  • Breathe in as you spray (but do not sniff hard as the spray then travels past the nose to the throat).
  • Do not angle the canister towards the middle or side of the nose, but straight up. With your head tilted forward, the spray should go to the back of your nose.
  • Repeat in the other nostril.
 Side effects of nasal steroids include: Unpleasant taste and smell, nasal and throat dryness/irritation.
– Longer term side-effects of nasal corticosteroids may occur particularly when used at high doses for prolonged periods.
High doses can cause long term effects – It is important you attend regular asthma reviews to assess your treatment and reduce the risk of long term side-effects.Information on other side-effects can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet in the pack or on the electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) website.Most side effects are short lasting and common. They are not a reason to stop taking the inhaler. Most people tolerate these mild side effects. If you are in any doubt contact your GP or asthma team.

Please note:

These are the most commonly used nasal sprays at the time of publication of this website. If you do not see your nasal spray you can speak to your GP or pharmacist or check the patient information leaflet for your medication.