Nasonex (Mometasone Furoate) Nasal Spray: a Patient's Guide

Nasonex nasal spray is a medication used to treat stuffy and runny noses caused by allergies or other related conditions. Nasonex gives fast relief by reducing inflammation in the nose, making breathing easier. It relieves congestion, sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Learn more about Nasonex, how it works, and how it differs from alternatives in our patient guide.

What is Nasonex Used for?

Nasonex is commonly used to treat allergies and relieve symptoms like a runny or congested nose, sneezing, and itching. It can also help with sinusitis by reducing inflammation in the nose and relieving symptoms such as blocked sinuses and facial pain. Nasonex also helps manage nasal polyps - painless growths inside the nose - by reducing their size and decreasing symptoms like congestion and breathing difficulties. During a common cold, it can also temporarily relieve nasal congestion and itching. Nasonex may interact with several other drugs. Some of these include other nasal corticosteroids, certain HIV drugs, immunosuppressants, and certain antifungal drugs. It's essential to consult your doctor for potential interactions with other medications or conditions.

Nasonex vs. Other Steroidal Nasal Sprays

Learn how Nasonex stands out among other medications to help you discover which medicine is right for you. Ultimately, your doctor will help you decide which medication is best for you based on your medical history and symptoms.

Nasonex vs. Flonase

Nasonex and Flonase, both nasal sprays for allergies, are available by prescription and over-the-counter. If you have insurance, getting prescription-strength medication can be more affordable, as it may be partially or fully covered. Below are some of the differences between these medications.   

•  Active ingredient: Nasonex contains mometasone furoate, while Flonase contains fluticasone propionate. 

•  Timing: Nasonex may take longer to work, while Flonase may provide quicker relief. 

•  How often to use: Nasonex is used once a day, while Flonase can be used once or twice a day. 

•  Age restrictions: Nasonex can be used by children as young as 2, while Flonase is for children 4 and above. 

•  Side effects: Both may cause nasal irritation, sneezing, or headache, but specific side effects can vary. 

 To find the best option, talk to a doctor to consider your individual needs and medical history.

Nasonex vs. Nasacort

Nasonex and Nasacort are both nasal sprays for allergies that are available over the counter. However, they have some differences.  

• Active ingredient: Nasonex has mometasone furoate, while Nasacort has triamcinolone acetonide. 

• Timing: Nasonex may take a few days to work, while Nasacort may provide quicker relief. 

• How often to use: Nasonex is typically used once a day, while Nasacort can be used once or twice a day. 

• Side effects: Both may cause mild side effects like nasal irritation or headache, but the specific side effects can vary. 

Nasonex vs. Nonsteroidal Nasal Sprays

Nasonex, a corticosteroid nasal spray, offers a different approach than nonsteroidal alternatives like saline spray and Afrin.

Nasonex vs. Saline Spray 

• Active ingredient: Nasonex addresses the underlying inflammation with a corticosteroid, providing targeted relief, while saline sprays use a saltwater solution, devoid of medications, focusing on natural hydration. 

• How it works: Nasonex works by decreasing inflammation in the nasal passages, offering sustained allergy symptom relief, whereas saline sprays moisten nasal passages to clear mucus and reduce irritation. Saline can also help decrease the activity of viruses and bacteria in the nasal passages. 

• How often to use: Nasonex is administered once daily for consistent, long-term allergy management, while saline sprays can be used as often as needed for hydration and relief. 

Nasonex vs. Afrin

• Active ingredient: Afrin typically contains oxymetazoline, a nasal decongestant that provides rapid decongestion, while Nasonex addresses the underlying inflammation with a corticosteroid, providing targeted relief. 

• How it works: Afrin rapidly constricts blood vessels in the nasal passages, offering quick relief from congestion, whereas Nasonex works by decreasing inflammation for sustained allergy symptom relief. 

• How often to use: Afrin should be used for short durations (maximum of 3-4 days) due to the risk of rebound congestion, while Nasonex can be administered once daily for consistent, long-term allergy management. 

 Here is a summary of some of the main similarities and differences between Nasonex and other nasal sprays. 

The choice depends on individual preferences and health conditions. For personalized guidance, consult with our board-certified physicians. Talking to a doctor to decide which option is best based on individual needs and medical history is important.

Dosage Information

It's important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or the product labeling. However, there are some general instructions for taking Nasonex. The best time to take Nasonex is usually in the morning. This allows the medication to start working before encountering any allergy triggers throughout the day. Nasal sprays are generally easier to use than drops and provide better medication distribution throughout the nasal passages. However, nasal drops might be more suitable for infants or young children who cannot effectively use a nasal spray. For adults, the usual starting dose of Nasonex is two sprays in each nostril once a day. This can be increased to a maximum of four sprays in each nostril once a day if necessary. The usual starting dose for children aged 2 to 11 years is one spray in each nostril once a day. This can be increased to a maximum of two sprays in each nostril once a day if needed. Nasonex has different spray options, including Nasonex 60 spray and Nasopro 24. These sprays both contain mometasone furoate, which helps with nasal allergy symptoms. Nasonex 60 contains 60 sprays, each with 50 mcg of mometasone furoate, while Nasopro 24 has the same active ingredient, but comes in a 120-spray bottle. Nasonex 24-hour allergy spray provides relief from allergy symptoms for a full day. Talking to your doctor is important to decide which spray is right for you.

Instructions on How to Use Nasonex

It is important to follow the patient instructions included with your medication or if prescribed, the instructions provided by your doctor. General guidelines for taking Nasonex may consist of the following:  

•  Shake the bottle gently before each use. 

•  Clear your nostrils by blowing your nose if necessary. 

•  Remove the cap and gently insert the nasal applicator into one nostril. 

• Close the other nostril by pressing your finger against it and breathe in gently through the nose while spraying Nasonex. 

• Sniff gently and remove the nasal applicator from the nostril. 

• Repeat the process for the other nostril. 

• Remember to clean the nasal applicator and replace the cap after each use. 

 Use Nasonex for the shortest duration necessary to achieve symptom relief. This helps minimize the risk of side effects. It is also important not to stop using Nasonex suddenly, as this can lead to a return of symptoms or other complications. Gradually reduce the dose as advised by your doctor when discontinuing the medication.

Possible Side Effects of Nasonex

Nasonex, like any medication, can have potential side effects and adverse effects. It is important to be aware of these when using the medicine. Special populations, including pregnant or nursing mothers, children, and the elderly, may require extra caution and consultation with a doctor. Nasonex's common side effects may include headache, nasal irritation or dryness, nosebleeds, and sneezing. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. In rare cases, some individuals may experience more serious adverse effects. These can include severe allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If any of these symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention. Long-term use of Nasonex may have a potential impact on eye health. It is advisable to inform your healthcare provider if you experience any changes in vision or eye discomfort while using the medication. Although uncommon, Nasonex can also cause a condition called nasal septum perforation. This may be painless or may present with symptoms such as severe facial pain or thick nasal discharge. If you experience these symptoms, consult your doctor. Nasonex should not be used if you have allergies or hypersensitivity to mometasone furoate or any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in individuals with nasal ulcers, recent nasal surgery, or nasal injury that has not yet healed. It is important to inform your doctor about your medical history and current medications to ensure the safety and suitability of Nasonex for you.

Nasonex FAQs

Is Nasonex a steroid?

Yes, Nasonex is a corticosteroid medication that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.

How long does Nasonex stay in your system?

The exact duration of how long Nasonex (mometasone furoate) stays in your system can vary among individuals. Generally, after stopping Nasonex, it takes approximately 10 to 24 hours for the medication to be eliminated from the body. However, since Nasonex is typically used as a daily medication, its effects may persist beyond the time it takes for it to fully clear from the body. The specific duration of action and residual impacts of Nasonex should be discussed with your doctor.

Does Nasonex raise blood pressure?

Nasonex is a nasal spray that is unlikely to raise blood pressure. However, in rare cases, corticosteroids like Nasonex may have a slight chance of increasing blood pressure. It is best to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

Is Nasonex an antihistamine?

No, Nasonex is not an antihistamine. It is a nasal spray that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. Antihistamines work differently by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergies.

How long does it take for Nasonex to work?

The time it takes for Nasonex to work can vary. Some people may notice symptom relief within a few hours, while others may take a few days of regular use. Using Nasonex as directed is essential, even if you don't feel better immediately. Talk to your doctor if you need clarification or haven't seen improvement after using it.

Read More About Allergies and Nasal Spray: 

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• Allegra (fexofenadine) prescription online 

Sources

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information. EXAMPLES BELOW: 

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