Uses of Beclomethasone

Beclomethasone is used prophylactically to prevent asthma in patients who need regular treatment. It is used to treat and prevent allergic rhinitis (seasonal or perennial). It is also used to reduce the redness and itchiness associated with certain skin problems, such as psoriasis and eczema (atopic dermatitis).

Therapeutic Category

Beclomethasone: Corticosteroids

How Beclomethasone works

Beclomethasone is an inhalational corticosteroid. It blocks the release of certain chemical messengers in the airways (such as histamines, prostaglandins, leukotrienes) that cause allergic reaction, inflammation and swelling. It also reduces the over activity of the certain immune cells (such as mast cells, eosinophils) in the airway tract. As a result, it reduces airway inflammation, allows the air to pass through more freely through the airways and makes breathing easier.

It blocks the release of certain chemical messengers that cause allergic reaction and inflammation (redness and swelling) on the skin. As a result, it reduces skin dryness, redness, itching and inflammation associated with psoriasis and eczema.

Common side effects of Beclomethasone

• application site reactions (pain, burning sensation, irritation and itching)
• stretch marks, skin thinning, changes in skin colour
• weight gain
• oral thrush (a yeast infection that causes sore, creamy-yellow, raised patches)
• sore tongue, hoarse voice, throat irritation
• cough, throat irritation
• dryness or pain in nose or throat
• nose bleeding
• skin rash, itching
• unpleasant taste or smell

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience, any signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience worsening of skin condition or raised bumps with pus under the skin
• If you experience worsening of wheezing
• If you experience blurred vision or any other visual disturbances
• If you experience fever or flu-like symptoms (signs of infection)
• If you experience signs of sudden narrowing of the airway (bronchospasm) such as troubled breathing, cough, wheezing, and/or tightness of chest
• If you experience signs of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)

Health Tips for Beclomethasone

• Take beclomethasone exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or frequency of use without consulting your healthcare provider
• If you have been using beclomethasone regularly, do not stop using it suddenly without consulting your doctor. Abruptly stopping corticosteroids can lead to adrenal insufficiency and other withdrawal symptoms
• Rinse your mouth after each use. This medicine may cause oral thrush or fungal infections in the mouth. To minimize the risk, rinse your mouth with water after each use, especially if you are using an inhaler. This helps to remove any residual medication from your mouth
• If you are using a beclomethasone inhaler, consider using a spacer device. A spacer helps to ensure that the medicine reaches your lungs effectively and reduces the amount of medicine deposited in the mouth and throat
• While beclomethasone can help manage inflammation, it's essential to avoid triggers and allergens that worsen your condition, such as smoke, pollen, pet dander, or certain chemicals
• Beclomethasone should be used in pregnant and breastfeeding women only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks and under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider