Budesonide AQ Nasal Spray: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Instructions

What is Budesonide AQ Nasal Spray?

Budesonide AQ (Aqueous) Nasal Spray contains budesonide, a corticosteroid medication used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and runny nose. It works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, providing relief from allergy symptoms and improving nasal congestion.

1. Composition

Each actuation (spray) typically contains:

• Budesonide 64 mcg, a corticosteroid

Other ingredients may include:

• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Carboxymethylcellulose sodium
• Dextrose
• Potassium sorbate (preservative)
• Purified water

“AQ” stands for “aqueous,” indicating a water-based nasal spray.

2. Indications (Uses)

Budesonide AQ Nasal Spray is used to treat nasal inflammation due to:

• Allergic rhinitis (seasonal or perennial)
• Nasal polyps
• Non-allergic rhinitis
• Sinusitis (as adjunct therapy)

Benefits:

• Reduces nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and itching
• Decreases swelling in the nasal passages
• Helps prevent nasal polyp recurrence after surgery

3. Mechanism of Action

Budesonide is a glucocorticoid (corticosteroid) that works by:

• Inhibiting inflammatory mediators (e.g., cytokines, histamines)
• Reducing swelling and mucus production in the nasal mucosa
• Relieving allergy-related and non-allergy-related symptoms

Because it acts locally in the nose, it has minimal systemic absorption, reducing the risk of full-body steroid side effects.

4. Dosage and Administration

Usual Adult Dosage:

• Recommended: 1 spray in each nostril once daily (total 128 mcg/day)
• Maximum: 4 sprays per day (256 mcg/day) if prescribed

Children (6 years and older):

• 1 spray in each nostril once daily (128 mcg/day)
• Dose should be minimized to lowest effective amount

Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

How to Use Budesonide AQ Nasal Spray:

1. Shake the bottle gently.
2. Blow your nose to clear nasal passages.
3. Insert the tip into one nostril while closing the other.
4. Spray and inhale gently through the nose.
5. Repeat for the other nostril.
6. Wipe the nozzle and recap the bottle.

It may take a few days to a week for full symptom relief.

5. Side Effects

Common:

• Nasal irritation or dryness
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Sore throat
• Cough

Less Common:

• Headache
• Bad taste or smell
• Dry mouth

Rare/Serious:

• Nasal septum perforation (rare, with long-term use)
• Delayed wound healing
• Glaucoma or cataracts (very rare with prolonged use)

6. Warnings and Precautions

• Long-term use: May cause nasal septum damage or slow healing.
• Avoid in recent nasal surgery or injury until healing is complete.
• Use with caution in patients with glaucoma or cataracts.
• Monitor growth in children on long-term therapy (may slow growth rate).
• Immunosuppression: Avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles.

7. Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C (do not freeze).
• Keep the bottle upright.
• Protect from direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

8. Patient Counseling Points

• Use regularly for best results; it’s not a “quick relief” spray.
• Do not blow your nose immediately after spraying.
• Shake well before each use.
• Rinse the nozzle weekly with warm water to prevent blockage.
• Discard the spray after the specified number of doses (even if some liquid remains).