Becovent

Indications

Beclomethasone Dipropionate is a corticosteroid (steroid) medicine used in several forms:

• Inhaler: to prevent asthma symptoms and attacks, and, combined with Formoterol (and sometimes Glycopyrronium), for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Nasal spray: for hay fever and allergic or non-allergic rhinitis (blocked or runny nose and sneezing).
• Skin cream or ointment: for inflamed, itchy skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
• Ear drops and skin products combined with antibiotics, antifungals or Lidocaine: for infected and inflamed ear or skin conditions.

How It Works

It reduces inflammation (swelling, redness and irritation) in the airways, nose or skin by calming the immune cells that cause it. In the lungs this makes the airways less sensitive, so asthma attacks happen less often. It works locally, so only a small amount reaches the rest of the body.

Dosage and Administration

• Inhaler: the dose depends on the product strength and how severe the condition is. It is usually taken twice a day, every day, as prescribed. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use.
• Nasal spray, adults: usually 2 sprays into each nostril twice a day (no more than 400 mcg a day). Once symptoms are controlled, the doctor may lower the dose.
• Skin cream or ointment: apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice a day, usually for no more than a few weeks unless the doctor advises.
• Children: only as prescribed.

Use the inhaler or nasal spray regularly, even when you feel well. It takes a few days to work fully.

Interactions

Strong enzyme blockers such as Ritonavir, Cobicistat, Ketoconazole and Itraconazole can increase the amount of steroid in the body. Combination inhalers that contain Formoterol should be used with care with beta blockers (such as Propranolol), some heart rhythm medicines and medicines that lower potassium. Tell your doctor about all medicines you use.

Contraindications

• Allergy to beclomethasone or any ingredient of the product.
• Skin products: untreated bacterial, fungal or viral skin infections (such as cold sores or chickenpox), acne, rosacea, or rash around the mouth.
• Ear drops: a perforated (torn) eardrum, unless a doctor advises.

Side Effects

Inhaler: hoarse voice, sore throat and oral thrush (white patches in the mouth). Nasal spray: dryness, irritation, nosebleeds, and changes in taste or smell. Skin: burning or stinging, and with long-term use, thinning of the skin and stretch marks. Long-term high doses can affect the adrenal glands, slow growth in children, and increase the risk of cataract or glaucoma.

Get urgent medical help if your breathing suddenly gets worse straight after using the inhaler (use your reliever inhaler at once), if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing), or if you notice blurred vision or eye pain.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Inhaled and nasal forms can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding when a doctor advises, because good control of asthma is important for mother and baby. Avoid large amounts of skin products for long periods, and do not apply them to the breast before feeding.

Precautions and Warnings

The inhaler is a preventer and does not relieve a sudden asthma attack; always carry your reliever inhaler. Do not stop it suddenly after long-term use without medical advice. Children on long-term treatment should have their height checked regularly. See your doctor if your asthma gets worse or you need your reliever more often. Do not use skin products on the face, under bandages or on large areas for long unless advised.

Overdose

A single extra dose is unlikely to cause harm. Using more than prescribed for a long time can affect the adrenal glands; see your doctor, who may reduce the dose slowly.

Therapeutic Class

Corticosteroid (inhaled, nasal and topical).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze. Inhaler cans are under pressure: do not puncture, break or burn them, even when empty, and keep them away from heat and direct sunlight.