Becospray (Beclomethasone Dipropionate): A Nasal Steroid for Rhinitis

Becospray contains Beclomethasone Dipropionate, a nasal steroid. It is indicated for the prophylaxis and treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, including hay fever and non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis. It is also used to prevent the recurrence of nasal polyps after they have been surgically removed. Becospray belongs to the therapeutic class of Nasal Steroid Preparations.

How Becospray Works (Pharmacology)

Beclomethasone Dipropionate's mechanism of action is to produce anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictor effects:

• Anti-inflammatory Effects: While the exact mechanism is not fully known, it is believed to reduce the number of inflammatory cells (e.g., basophils, eosinophils) in the nasal passages.
• Vasoconstrictor Effects: It inhibits capillary dilation and permeability, which helps reduce swelling and congestion.
• Reduces Symptoms: These actions work together to reduce nasal inflammation, which is the underlying cause of symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and a runny nose.

Key Indications & Benefits

Becospray is indicated for:

• Prophylaxis and treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (including hay fever).
• Treatment of non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis.
• Prevention of recurrence of nasal polyps following surgical removal.

Dosage & Administration

The dosage of Becospray should be carefully adjusted to the individual. It is administered as a spray into each nostril.

• Adults: The usual dose is two sprays in each nostril twice daily. Some patients may prefer one spray in each nostril three to four times daily. The total daily dose should not exceed 400 µgm (eight sprays).
• Children (6 to 12 years): The usual dose is one spray in each nostril twice daily. For more severe symptoms, two sprays in each nostril twice daily may be used.
• Children under 6 years: Use is not recommended as safety studies have not been conducted.
• Maintenance dose: After the first few days, patients may be able to reduce the dosage to one spray in each nostril once daily.

The instructions for use and cleaning of the nasal spray device are also provided.

Important Considerations & Warnings

It is crucial to discuss your full medical history with your doctor before using Becospray.

Contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to any of its components.
• Nasal infections should be treated appropriately but do not necessarily contraindicate use.

Side Effects:

• Rare: Nasal septum perforation, dryness and irritation of the nose and throat, unpleasant taste/smell, and epistaxis (nosebleeds).
• Very rare: Wheezing, cataracts, glaucoma, and increased intra-ocular pressure.

Pregnancy & Lactation:

• Pregnancy: It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risks to the fetus.
• Lactation: As other corticosteroids are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when administering to a nursing woman.

Precautions & Warnings:

• Infections: Nasal infections should be treated appropriately.
• Systemic Steroids: Caution should be taken when transferring patients from systemic steroids to Becospray if there is a concern about impaired adrenal function.
• Overdose: Inhalation of excessive doses over a short period may suppress HPA (hypothalamic pituitary adrenal) function, but this usually recovers within one or two days. No special emergency action is needed; treatment should simply be continued at the recommended dose.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.