Rhinocort Allergy

Rhinocort Allergy (for use in the nose) is used to treat a stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy nose, and runny nose caused by seasonal or year-round allergies.

Budesonide may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on the label and package.

Use exactly as directed.

You should not use budesonide if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Rhinocort Allergy is safe to use if you have ever had:

• glaucoma or cataracts (now or in the past);
• a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicines);
• sores or ulcers inside your nose;
• an eye infection; or
• recently had an injury or surgery on your nose.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Steroid medicines can affect growth in children. Talk with your doctor if you think your child is not growing at a normal rate while using Rhinocort Allergy.

Rhinocort Allergy is not approved for use by anyone younger than 6 years old.

Get emergency medical help if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Rhinocort Allergy may cause serious side effects. Stop using Rhinocort Allergy and call your doctor immediately if you have:

• come into contact with anyone who has chickenpox, measles, or tuberculosis;
• severe or ongoing nosebleeds;
• vision problems; or
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms.

Less serious side effects may happen more often, and you may not experience any at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Rhinocort Allergy is usually given in each nostril once per day. The usual dose is 1 to 2 sprays. Carefully follow your doctor's dosing instructions.

Prime the nasal spray before your first use. Shake well and pump 8 test sprays into the air, away from your face. Pump the spray until a fine mist appears. Prime again whenever the inhaler has not been used in longer than 2 days, or if it has been dropped.

Shake the medicine bottle well just before each use.

It may take up to 2 weeks before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed, even if you feel fine. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using Rhinocort Allergy.

Budesonide can weaken your immune system. Tell your doctor if you have signs of infection such as fever, chills, body aches, vomiting, or feeling tired.

If you use this medicine long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.

Store this medicine in an upright position at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

An overdose of Rhinocort Allergy is not expected to cause life-threatening symptoms. However, using high doses of steroids for a long time can lead to symptoms such as thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat shape or location (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any signs of infection.

Many drugs can affect budesonide. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.