Why is this medication prescribed?

Beclovent is a brand name for beclomethasone, which is a corticosteroid medication primarily used to prevent asthma attacks. It belongs to a class of drugs known as inhaled corticosteroids. Beclovent works by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to prevent asthma symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

How should this medicine be used?

Beclovent, or beclomethasone, is typically prescribed as an inhaler medication to manage asthma symptoms. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Beclovent effectively:

• Preparation: Shake the inhaler well before each use. If you’re using it for the first time or if you haven’t used it for a while, you may need to prime the inhaler by spraying it into the air away from your face until a fine mist appears. Follow the instructions provided with your inhaler for priming if necessary.
• Exhale: Before using the inhaler, exhale completely to ensure your lungs are empty. It’s important to do this away from the inhaler to avoid accidentally exhaling into it.
• Positioning: Hold the inhaler upright with the mouthpiece facing you, ensuring a comfortable and stable grip.
• Mouthpiece: Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece of the inhaler to form a seal. This helps ensure that the medication is delivered directly into your lungs.
• Inhalation: As you start to inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth, simultaneously press down firmly on the canister to release a dose of medication. It’s crucial to coordinate pressing the canister with inhaling to ensure that the medication reaches your lungs effectively.
• Hold Breath: After inhaling the medication, hold your breath for about 10 seconds, if possible. This allows the medication to be fully absorbed into your lungs.
• Repeat if Necessary: If your prescribed dose requires more than one inhalation, wait about 30 seconds to 1 minute before taking the next puff. Shake the inhaler again if necessary, and repeat steps 3 through 6.
• Rinse Mouth: After using the inhaler, it’s important to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent potential side effects such as oral thrush. This step is particularly important if you’re using a corticosteroid inhaler like Beclovent.
• Close and Store: Close the cap securely after each use to protect the inhaler from dust and debris. Store it in a clean, dry place at room temperature.

Remember to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and frequency of use for Beclovent. If you have any questions or concerns about using the inhaler, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Beclovent, or beclomethasone, is primarily prescribed for the management of asthma. However, it may also be used for other respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema, particularly in cases where inflammation of the airways contributes to symptoms.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Beclovent or any other corticosteroid medication. Here are some key points to consider:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always use Beclovent exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or frequency of use without consulting your doctor first.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your lung function and overall health to ensure that Beclovent is effectively managing your condition and to check for any potential side effects.
• Rinse Mouth: After using Beclovent, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth) and other potential side effects associated with corticosteroid inhalers. This step is particularly important if you’re using high doses or if you’re prone to oral thrush.
• Use a Spacer Device: If you have difficulty coordinating your breathing with inhaler use, your doctor may recommend using a spacer device with your Beclovent inhaler. A spacer can help ensure that more medication reaches your lungs and reduces the risk of side effects such as oral thrush.
• Monitor for Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects associated with Beclovent, including throat irritation, hoarseness, coughing, headache, and fungal infections in the mouth (oral thrush). Contact your doctor if you experience any persistent or severe side effects while using Beclovent.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, that you are using Beclovent. This is important in case you need additional medical treatment or if other medications may interact with Beclovent.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Beclovent with your doctor. While corticosteroid inhalers like Beclovent are generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against any potential risks.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions, including diabetes, tuberculosis, or any infections, as these may require special considerations when using Beclovent.

By following these precautions and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can use Beclovent safely and effectively to manage your respiratory condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Beclovent. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet can contribute to overall well-being and may help support your respiratory health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Beclomethasone Oral Inhalation, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you are unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Beclovent (beclomethasone), like other corticosteroid medications, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Beclovent may include:

• Throat Irritation: Some people may experience throat irritation or a sore throat after using Beclovent inhaler.
• Hoarseness: Beclovent can sometimes cause hoarseness or changes in voice quality.
• Coughing: Coughing may occur as a side effect of using Beclovent.
• Oral Thrush: This is a fungal infection in the mouth caused by overgrowth of Candida albicans. Rinsing your mouth after using Beclovent can help reduce the risk of oral thrush.
• Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect of corticosteroid medications like Beclovent.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea or an upset stomach while using Beclovent.
• Increased Heart Rate: In rare cases, Beclovent may cause palpitations or an increased heart rate.
• Dry Mouth: Dry mouth can occur as a side effect of corticosteroid inhalers like Beclovent.
• Nasal Congestion: Some individuals may experience nasal congestion or a runny nose while using Beclovent.
• Muscle Weakness: Prolonged use of high doses of corticosteroids like Beclovent may lead to muscle weakness or wasting.
• Bruising or Skin Thinning: Long-term use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of bruising or skin thinning, particularly in the area where the medication is applied.

It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects while using Beclovent, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits of Beclovent in managing your asthma or other respiratory condition against the potential risks of side effects. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision about your treatment plan.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Beclovent:

• Storage: Store Beclovent inhaler at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep the inhaler tightly capped when not in use. Be sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: When disposing of an expired or unused Beclovent inhaler, follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal regulations. Do not puncture or incinerate the canister, even if it is empty.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose with Beclovent, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center right away. Overdose symptoms may include increased heart rate, shakiness, nervousness, headache, or other signs of systemic corticosteroid effects.

What other information should I know?

• Keep track of the number of doses used from each canister of Beclovent. Discard the canister after a specified number of uses, even if it still contains medication, as instructed by your healthcare provider or the manufacturer.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Beclovent, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your response to Beclovent treatment, adjust your dosage if needed, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
• Be aware of warning signs indicating worsening asthma symptoms, such as increased wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or the need for rescue inhaler medication more frequently than usual. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience any worsening of asthma symptoms.
• Carry a medical alert card or wear a medical alert bracelet indicating that you are using corticosteroid medication like Beclovent, especially if you are at risk of adrenal insufficiency during times of stress or illness.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the proper storage, disposal, handling of emergencies, overdoses, and other essential information about Beclovent, you can use the medication safely and effectively to manage your asthma or other respiratory condition.