Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
beclomethasone dipropionate monohydrate	Beconase AQ
budesonide	Rhinocort
flunisolide	Nasarel
fluticasone propionate	Flonase
mometasone furoate monohydrate	Nasonex
triamcinolone acetonide	Nasacort AQ
fluticasone furoate	Veramyst

How It Works

Nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce inflammation in the nose. This may help reduce congestion that leads to snoring.

Why It Is Used

Nasal corticosteroid sprays are used when congestion is the cause of snoring and other treatment has not relieved the congestion.

How Well It Works

Nasal corticosteroid sprays effectively decrease congestion and thus may reduce snoring.

Side Effects

Side effects of nasal corticosteroid sprays are rare and minimal, even after long periods of continuous use.

• The most common complaint is a burning sensation in the nose right after the spray is used. Some people experience an unpleasant aftertaste. Others may experience some dryness in the nasal mucous membranes. These side effects can often be avoided by changing the preparation used.
• Nosebleeds occur in some people using the nasal spray.

Rare side effects of nasal corticosteroid sprays include:

• Sores in the nose.
• A hole (perforation) that forms in the wall between the nostrils (septum).

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

Corticosteroids are not the kind of steroids used for muscle building. People do not "bulk up" when using corticosteroids.

There has been some concern that nasal corticosteroid sprays may cause side effects in children, such as growth delay and behavioral disturbances. At the recommended doses, nasal corticosteroid sprays have not been shown to produce serious side effects. ¹ However, because of these concerns, nasal corticosteroid sprays are used in children only when necessary. Discuss with your health professional whether corticosteroids are suitable for your child, and if so, which ones to use.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should take corticosteroids only after discussing the risks with a health professional.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Citations

1. Meltzer EO (1998). Treatment options for the child with allergic rhinitis. Clinical Pediatrics, 37(1): 1–10.