Rhinocort

What is Rhinocort?

Rhinocort is a steroid nasal spray that can treat the symptoms of nasal infections. It’s the branded version of Budesonide.

Nasal infections are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. While these bacteria are not harmful when outside of the body, when they enter it (for example through a lesion or a break in skin, or unexposed tissue such as in the nose) this can lead to infections.

Sometimes the body clears these infections without treatment, but when treatment is needed, this is usually given as antibiotics. Rhinocort is a corticosteroid, so won’t treat the actual infection itself, but it can help relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion.

How does Rhinocort work?

Budesonide, the active ingredient in Rhinocort, is a corticosteroid. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and prevents inflammatory cells from being activated in the body. This helps to reduce inflammation, which can help reduce nasal congestion and discomfort. This helps to clear your nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.^[1]

What doses of Rhinocort are there?

Rhinocort is only available in one dose of 32 mcg. For nasal infection, the typical dose is one to two sprays in each nostril once daily.

If after a few days of use you find that this dose isn’t effective for you, you may be able to use a different brand of budesonide nasal spray that contains a different dose. For more advice on this, ask your clinician.

How to use Rhinocort

Before using Rhinocort, you’ll need to prime the bottle. To do this:

• Shake the bottle for a few seconds. 
• Hold the bottle upright. 
• Press the pump down about eight times until a fine spray appears.

To use Rhinocort nasal spray:

1. Shake the bottle.
2. Blow your nose gently.
3. Place the nozzle near the tip of the nostril.
4. While breathing in through your nose, press the pump down. 
5. Tilt your head backwards for a few seconds.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 for the other nostril. 

How long does Rhinocort take to work?

Rhinocort starts to work immediately, but it will take a few days to notice an improvement in your symptoms. If your symptoms don’t improve after a week, let the clinician who prescribed Rhinocort form you know, so that they can advise you on what to do next.

What should I do if I make a mistake when using Rhinocort?

Using more than the recommended dose can increase the risk of side effects. But if you accidentally sprayed slightly more than the recommended amount, it’s unlikely that you’ll experience any overdose symptoms. Rhinocort releases only 32 mcg per spray, and this small amount shouldn’t cause harmful effects.

However, if you notice anything that concerns you, seek medical attention or contact your prescriber.