Beclometasone

A corticosteroid drug that is used in the treatment of asthma and hay fever (see rhinitis, allergic). Beclometasone, which is prescribed as an inhaler or nasal spray, controls the symptoms by reducing inflammation and mucus production in the lining of the nose or, in asthma, inflammation of the airways. The drug is often given with bronchodilator drugs in the management of asthma. A severe asthma attack may require the dose to be increased. The action of beclometasone is slow, however, and its full effect takes several days to occur. Adverse effects of the drug may include hoarseness, throat irritation, and, on rare occasions, fungal infections in the mouth. Beclometasone is also prescribed in the form of a cream or ointment to treat inflammation of the skin caused by eczema.