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The Side Effects of Rhinocort Nasal Spray

Rhinocort nasal spray is a steroid-based nasal spray that has been widely used for many years. Rhinocort is prescribed for nasal congestion due to seasonal and year-round allergies. Like all medications, Rhinocort has possible side effects and warnings associated with its use. Users must decide for themselves if the benefits of Rhinocort nasal spray outweigh the risks.

  1. The Facts

    • Rhinocort nasal spray is known by the generic name budesonide and contains a steroid designed to prevent inflammation of the respiratory system due to allergies. It comes in a manual pump with metered sprays in two dosage levels--32 mcg or 64 mcg per spray. Rhinocort nasal spray was approved by the Food and Drug Administration and placed on the market in 1999. It is used by millions of Americans who have nasal allergies.

    Benefits

    • Rhinocort nasal spray treats congestion, runny nose and sneezing. It can also prevent new nasal polyps after polyp removal surgery. Rhinocort is prescribed in different amounts based on the severity of allergies. While it begins relieving symptoms within 24 to 48 hours, Rhinocort nasal spray reaches maximum effectiveness after approximately two weeks of use. Experts at International Drug Mart add, "Lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes, may increase the effectiveness of this medication."

    Considerations

    • Like all steroidal medications, Rhinocort lowers blood cell levels that fight infection. Exposure to illnesses, such as chicken pox or measles, can be serious or even fatal to patients taking Rhinocort. As a steroid, Rhinocort can also inhibit growth, so juvenile patients should be closely monitored. Despite its inhibition of growth, Rhinocort is safe for use during pregnancy, but its effects on breast milk have not been thoroughly studied. Long-term use of steroidal medications, including Rhinocort nasal spray, can also cause thinning of the skin, bruising, changes in body fat distribution, facial hair, acne, menstrual issues, impotence and/or lack of interest in sex.

    Effects

    • Experts at International Drug Mart say the side effects of Rhinocort "are most likely to be minor and temporary." The most serious side effects include allergic reactions, ongoing or severe nosebleeds, sores in or around the nose that don't heal, breathing difficulties, vision problems, fever and chills, body aches, flu-like symptoms and nasal pain. Less serious side effects include dry or sore throat, cough, nasal irritation, burning or irritation of the throat, throat swelling or itching, and sores or white patches around the nose. Experts at the Drugs website advise, "To be sure Rhinocort is not causing harmful effects on your nose or sinuses, your doctor may want to check your progress on a regular basis."

    Warning

    • In addition to side effects, Rhinocort nasal spray interacts with a wide variety of drugs, nutritional supplements and even foods. Among the drugs that interact with Rhinocort are medications for seizures, depression, HIV, heart problems, stomach problems, fungal infections and common antibiotics. Grapefruit juice and St. John's wort also interact with Rhinocort nasal spray, increasing its potency and causing heavy sedation.

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