Always use mometasone nasal spray as a doctor or pharmacist has told you.
Dosage
Mometasone nasal spray comes in strengths of either 25 or 50 micrograms. Mometasone 25 microgram nasal spray is combined with an antihistamine.
For allergic rhinitis or hay fever, you'll usually use 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. Do not use more than 2 sprays in each nostril in 24 hours.
If you're using it for nasal polyps you'll usually use 1 or 2 sprays in each nostril once or twice a day. Do not use more than 4 sprays in either nostril in 24 hours.
Changes to your dose
If you buy mometasone, rather than get it on prescription, you can use it less often once your symptoms are under control.
For example, you might go from using 2 sprays in each nostril once a day, to 1 spray in each nostril once a day.
If your symptoms get worse after reducing your dose, you may want to increase it again.
If you have mometasone nasal spray on prescription, your doctor will tell you how often to use the nasal spray and when to change your dose.
How to use it
Follow the instructions that come with your nasal spray.
If you're using a new bottle, it may not work first time. Pump the spray a few times until a fine mist comes out. You'll also need to do this if the bottle has not been used for a few days.
Gently shake the bottle and remove the cap.
- Blow your nose gently, then press your finger against the side of your nose to close one nostril with your finger.
- Bend your head forward slightly and carefully put the nozzle into your other nostril, keeping the bottle upright.
- Slowly breathe in through your nose and press down on the widest part of the nozzle to squirt the spray once.
- Breathe out through your mouth.
- Follow steps 3 and 4 again to squirt a second spray into the same nostril, if necessary.
- Remove the nozzle from your nose.
- Repeat the process with the other nostril if you need to.
After using your spray, wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap.
How long to use it for
If you buy mometasone nasal spray from a pharmacy, check the leaflet that comes with the medicine. This will tell you how long you can use it for.
You can usually keep using mometasone nasal spray for up to 3 months. Once opened, however, the spray should be used within 2 months or thrown away. You'll need a new spray if you want to use it for longer.
Tell your doctor if you feel no better after using it for 14 days.
If you think you no longer need it, stop using it but ask your pharmacist for advice if you're not sure when to stop.
If you're prescribed mometasone, your doctor may advise you to use it for longer.
If you forget to use it
If you forget to use your spray, use it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. If this happens, skip the missed dose and have your next one at the usual time.
Do not add extra sprays to your dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
If you forget to use your spray often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.
If you use too much
Using too much mometasone nasal spray is unlikely to harm you.
Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're worried.