How beclometasone works
Beclometasone is a potent corticosteroid that, among other things, inhibits the formation of inflammation-mediating signal substances (such as prostaglandins) in the body. At the same time, it reduces the formation of new cells of the immune system. This stops inflammatory processes and suppresses immune reactions.
The human body has an efficient defense system that protects the organism against the invasion of foreign pathogens. In some diseases, however, this complex system is constantly activated.
In such cases, the immune system overreacts to actually harmless stimuli, leading to inflammatory processes and allergic reactions such as asthma or rhinitis. This can cause great damage to the tissue. In most cases, it is then necessary to suppress the immune system in order to alleviate the symptoms of inflammation – for example with beclometasone.
Absorption, degradation and excretion
The small amount of active ingredient that nevertheless enters the bloodstream is very rapidly broken down in the liver. The breakdown products are excreted in the stool and urine.
When is beclometasone used?
The indications for use (indications) of beclometasone include:
- Treatment of bronchial asthma
- @ Treatment of persistent allergic rhinitis (allergic rhinitis)
- Acute treatment after fires and accidents in which toxic gases have been released (to prevent so-called pulmonary edema)
How beclometasone is used
Beclometasone is used either as a metered-dose inhaler (spray for inhalation), a powder inhaler (powder for inhalation), or a beclometasone nasal spray – depending on whether the drug is to act in the lung tissue or on the nasal mucosa.
In adults, the standard dose for inhalation is between 0.4 and 0.6 milligrams per day. Children and adolescents under 12 years of age receive a reduced dose.
For beclometasone nasal spray, 200 micrograms per day is a guideline. As little as possible but as much as necessary of the active substance should be used. An individually suitable dosage must be found for each patient.
What are the side effects of beclometasone?
Often, i.e. in one to ten percent of those treated, inhaled beclometasone causes side effects in the form of an increased tendency to infection (due to the suppressed immune system), gastrointestinal complaints and fungal infections in the mouth and throat. Proper use of the drug can significantly minimize these side effects.
Beclometasone administered as a nasal spray is usually very well tolerated. Dryness sensation, nosebleeds, irritation in the throat and headaches are possible side effects.
What should be considered when using beclometasone?
These side effects can be prevented by proper use and lowest possible dosage of the betomeclasone drug.
Drug interactions
Beclometasone can enhance the efficacy of beta-2 sympathomimetics (“bronchodilators”, i.e. bronchodilators). This is usually desirable and is targeted by combining these agents.
Age restrictions
Metered dose inhalers containing beclometasone should not be used in children under the age of five. Powder inhalers are approved in Germany and Austria for children as young as six years of age, and in Switzerland for children as young as twelve years of age.
The solution for nebulizers registered in Germany is also suitable for children under five years of age. Nasal sprays with beclometasone are approved from the age of six.
Pregnancy and lactation
How to obtain medication with beclometasone
Medicines containing beclometasone for inhalation require a prescription in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and are only available from pharmacies with a prescription from a doctor.
Nasal sprays containing beclometasone are exempt from prescription requirements in Germany up to a maximum daily dose of 400 micrograms for adults aged 18 and over.
In Switzerland, nasal sprays containing the active ingredient are in dispensing category B. They can be dispensed by a pharmacist in person without a doctor’s prescription.
In Austria, all medicines containing beclometasone, including nasal sprays, are subject to prescription.
