BECLOMETHASONE (be kloe METH a sone) prevents the symptoms of asthma. It works by decreasing inflammation of the airways, making it easier to breathe. It belongs to a group of medications called inhaled steroids. Do not use it to treat a sudden asthma attack.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Eye disease, such as glaucoma, cataracts, or blurred vision
Immune system problems
Infections, such as tuberculosis (TB) or other bacterial, fungal, or viral infections
Osteoporosis, weak bones
Taking steroids, such as dexamethasone or prednisone
An unusual or allergic reaction to beclomethasone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is inhaled through the mouth. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Make sure not to swallow the water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the instructions carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be used in children as young as 4 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness
Thrush—white patches in the mouth
Wheezing or trouble breathing that is worse after use
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Change in taste
Cough
Hoarseness
Runny or stuffy nose
Sore throat
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Follow your plan from your care team for managing an acute asthma attack or bronchospasm (wheezing). If you do not get relief from your rescue inhaler, call your care team right away.
If you have asthma, you and your care team should develop an Asthma Action Plan that is just for you. Be sure to know what to do if you are in the yellow (asthma is getting worse) or red (medical alert) zones.
This medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your care team for advice if you get a fever, chills, sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick. If you have not had the measles or chickenpox vaccines, tell your care team right away if you are around someone with these viruses.
Using this medication for a long time may weaken your bones. The risk of bone fractures may be increased. Talk to your care team about your bone health.
This medication may slow your child's growth if it is taken for a long time at high doses. Your care team will monitor your child's growth.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep inhaler away from extreme heat, cold, or humidity. Do not puncture the canister. Throw away when the dose counter reads "0" or after the expiration date, whichever is first.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
