dexamethasone nasal

Generic name: dexamethasone nasal [ dex-a-METH-a-sone ]
Brand name: Dexacort Phosphate in Turbinaire

What is dexamethasone nasal?

Dexamethasone nasal was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1998.

Dexamethasone is a steroid. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Dexamethasone nasal is used to treat the nasal symptoms of allergies and other seasonal reactions.

Dexamethasone nasal is also used to treat some types of nasal polyps.

Dexamethasone nasal may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about dexamethasone nasal?

Dexamethasone nasal was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1998.

Do not use more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much may cause serious side effects.

Use dexamethasone nasal on a regular basis for best results. It may take several weeks to get the maximum effect of this medication.

Who should not use dexamethasone nasal?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection of any kind. The absorption of this drug into your system can inhibit your body's ability to fight off infections. You may not be able to use dexamethasone nasal if you have an infection.

Dexamethasone nasal is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether dexamethasone nasal will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

Dexamethasone passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use dexamethasone nasal without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Dexamethasone nasal is not approved for use in children younger than 6 years of age.

How should I use dexamethasone nasal?

Use dexamethasone nasal spray exactly as directed by your doctor. Read the information insert included with your medication. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Shake the medication well before each dose.

If your nose is congested, try to clear it before using your medication to be sure that the medicine gets into your nasal passages. If you are also using a decongestant spray, use it to open up your nasal passages before using dexamethasone. However, do not use a decongestant spray unless your doctor approves.

Do not use more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Never use more than 12 sprays (1,008 micrograms) per day. It may take a few weeks to see the effects of dexamethasone nasal. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Store dexamethasone nasal at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is not likely to occur. If you do think that an overdose has occurred, call an emergency room or poison control center .

What should I avoid while using dexamethasone nasal?

Avoid items or activities that you know are allergens for you if they make your symptoms worse. Clean areas where dust or pet fur may aggravate your condition.

Avoid exposing yourself to known sources of infection. Stay away from people with chicken pox, measles, or any other type of infection. Your immune system may not be strong enough to fight off an infection while you are using dexamethasone nasal.

Dexamethasone nasal side effects

Serious side effects from dexamethasone nasal are not likely to occur. Stop using dexamethasone nasal and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use dexamethasone nasal and talk to your doctor if you experience

stinging or burning of the nose;
sneezing after application;
yeast infection in the nose or throat (white patches);
bleeding nose;
perforated septum (inside center of nose);
increased pressure in the eye, glaucoma, or tearing of the eyes;
headache or lightheadedness;
nausea;
nasal stuffiness or a runny nose; or
unpleasant (or loss of) taste or smell.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect dexamethasone nasal?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other drugs you are taking. The use of other oral or inhaled steroids may increase the chance of side effects or overdose.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with dexamethasone nasal. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Further information

Your pharmacist has additional information about dexamethasone nasal written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Dexamethasone nasal was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1998.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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