Pharmacotherapeutic group: Decongestants and other nasal preparations for topical use, corticosteroids. ATC code: R01A D05
Budesonide is a non-halogenated glucocorticosteroid with a high local anti-inflammatory action within the respiratory tract.
It is used intranasally for the prophylaxis and treatment of allergic rhinitis. Intranasal corticosteroids are quickly metabolised to less active metabolites, are minimally absorbed, and have been associated with few systemic adverse effects. Studies have shown that control of allergic rhinitis symptoms by intra-nasal corticosteroids is dependent on local activity.
Glucocorticoid potency is closely related to their glucocorticoid receptor (GR) binding affinity within the target cell. This receptor binding triggers a cascade of biochemical reactions within the target cell, thereby affecting the rate of protein synthesis. This is responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticoids. Upon GR activation, there is a decrease in the production of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators such as kinins, histamine and platelet activating factor. Corticosteroids also reduce the number of circulating T lymphocytes and inhibit activation of other T lymphocytes. The inhibition of T lymphocytes and cytokine production reduce the recruitment and influx of circulating eosinophils, macrophages and basophils into the nasal epithelium.
⚠️ Warnings
Before using this medicine for the first time the nozzle must be primed (filled with the medicine). To do this the bottle should be shaken and the protective cap removed. The bottle should then be held upright and the nozzle pumped up and down several times (5-10 times) spraying into the air, until an even mist is seen. The priming effect remains for approximately 24 hours. If a longer period of time passes before the next dose is taken, the nozzle must be loaded with medicine again. This time it is sufficient to spray just once into the air.
a. The patient should be instructed to blow their nose before using this medicine. Then the bottle needs to be shaken and the protective cap removed.
b. Holding the bottle upright, with one finger held on either side of the nozzle, the patient should insert the tip of the nozzle into one nostril. The nozzle should be directed to the side of the nose, and away from the middle of the nose (the nasal septum). The nozzle should be pressed down once or twice depending on the dose required. The spray should then be administered into the other nostril in the same way. Note: it is not necessary to inhale at the same time as spraying.
c. The nozzle needs to be wiped with a clean tissue after use and the protective cap replaced. The bottle should be stored in an upright position.
d. Keeping the nozzle clean
The plastic nozzle should be cleaned regularly and at any time the spray of medicine is not coming out as it should. If this happens, first the nozzle should be checked to ensure that it is primed with medicine (see earlier). If, after the nozzle is primed again, the pump is still not working, the nozzle should be cleaned by using the following instructions:
The plastic nozzle should be removed with a clean tissue and washed in warm, not hot, water. The nozzle should then be rinsed thoroughly, dried and then replaced onto the top of the bottle. The nozzle should not be unblocked with a pin or other sharp object. After cleaning, the nozzle must be primed (filled with medicine) again before use.
No special requirements for disposal.
Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.
PillsCard reference image