|  | Conditions Treatments | Allergies

Side Effects of Nasonex Nasal Spray

For many people suffering from allergies or nasal polyps, Nasonex (or Mometasone, in its generic form) is a dream come true. However, not everyone responds to Nasonex the same way. While Nasonex may cure the sneezing blues, there's always a chance that side effects can spring up. From mild side effects to more serious complications, potential Nasonex users should take the appropriate precautions when beginning their medication. In addition, since Nasonex is a steroid, users must be careful not to overuse it.

  1. Serious Side Effects

    • Some of the more serious side effects of Nasonex include persistent nosebleeds, nose sores that don't go away, shortness of breath, vision disturbances, pinkeye, fever, chills and vomiting. Although most of these side effects are rare, they all can be potentially serious. If you experience any of these side effects, stop use of Nasonex and contact your doctor.

    Moderate Side Effects

    • The remaining Nasonex side effects are unpleasant but far less serious. This class of side effects includes headaches (affecting up to 25 percent of users), joint pain, sore throat, sores around the nose and nausea. If any of these side effects continue for a prolonged period of time or become unmanageable, contact your doctor.

    Rare Side Effects

    • In less than 4 percent of users, Nasonex causes bronchitis, asthma, earaches and diarrhea. If you experience any of these rarer side effects, contact a doctor immediately. Your dose may need adjustment, or you may need to use an alternate medication.

    Steroid Toxicity

    • One of the most serious potential side effects of Nasonex is steroid toxicity. Since Nasonex is a powerful steroid, some people are more susceptible to intoxication. The most common symptoms of steroid toxicity are changes in menstrual cycles, acne, weight gain (especially in the stomach, upper back, face and neck) and mysterious stretch marks. Should you experience any of these symptoms of steroid toxicity, stop use of Nasonex and any other steroids you may be taking and seek medical advice immediately.

    Effects of Dosage

    • In clinical trials, most of the common side effects stayed the same or increased when patients used Nasonex 200, as opposed to Nasonex 100. However, many side effects such as vomiting, coughing and muscle pain occurred at the same rates when a placebo was taken. Clinical trials also revealed incidents of viral infection, pharyngitis and epistaxis, but many users who took placebos reported these side effects as well. Thus, it's difficult to predict what side effects users will suffer. As is the case with all medications, users should consult their doctors before use, follow medicinal instructions and report any unpleasant side effects right away.

    Warnings

    • There is some evidence that pediatric patients who use Nasonex may suffer from stunted growth. However, these claims have not been fully substantiated. Users who have tuberculosis or untreated herpes simplex should take particular caution when using Nasonex or other steroids.

Allergies - Related Articles