Products
Beclometasone is commercially available as a drug for inhalation and as a nasal spray (Qvar, Beclo Orion). It has been approved in many countries since 1998. This article refers to inhalation. See also under beclometasone nasal spray. Beclometasone is also combined with formoterol fix; see under Beclometasone and Formoterol (Foster). In 2020, a fixed combination with beclometasone, formoterol, and glycopyrronium bromide was also approved (Trimbow).
Structure and properties
Beclometasone (C24H32O4, Mr = 384.5 g/mol) is present in drugs as beclometasone dipropionate, a white crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water. It is structurally related to dexamethasone. Beclomethasone dipropionate is a prodrug that is biotransformed by hydrolysis to its active metabolite beclomethasone-17-monopropionate (17-BMP).
Effects
Beclometasone (ATC R03BA01) has anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and immunosuppressive properties. The effects are due to binding to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors.
Indications
For the treatment of bronchial asthma.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Usually inhaled in the morning and evening with 1-2 strokes. The effect is delayed and regular use is necessary. Beclometasone is not suitable for the treatment of an acute attack. It should be inhaled immediately before eating or the mouth should be rinsed with water after use to prevent oral thrush.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Untreated infectious diseases of the respiratory tract or eyes.
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions are possible with sympathomimetics and other glucocorticoids. An increase in effect is to be expected.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include oral thrush, hoarseness, throat irritation, cough, paradoxical bronchospasm, hypersensitivity reactions, cataracts, glaucoma, and systemic side effects (eg, growth retardation in children).
