Beclometasone nasal (nose) spray is used to treat cold-like symptoms caused by allergic rhinitis. This is swelling (inflammation) of the inside of your nose that can be brought on by allergies like hay fever.
Beclometasone (also called "beclomethasone") is a type of medicine known as a steroid (or corticosteroid). Corticosteroids are a copy of a substance the body makes naturally. They’re not the same as anabolic steroids.
Beclometasone nasal spray is available on prescription for adults and children aged 6 years old and over. You can also buy it from pharmacies and shops for adults aged 18 years old and over.
Beclometasone also comes as:
- an inhaler – for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- cream and ointment – for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis
- tablets – for ulcerative colitis
Key facts
- You need to use beclometasone nasal spray regularly for it to work.
- Beclometasone nasal spray takes a few days to work fully. For some people it can take 2 weeks or more to get the maximum benefits.
- The most common side effects are an unpleasant taste or smell, and a dry or sore throat.
- If your doctor has prescribed high doses of beclometasone to control your symptoms, you may need to carry a steroid emergency card. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.