You have asthma, so your doctor may have prescribed you a Mometasone inhaler. This is what we usually call a 'controller inhaler', meaning an inhaler that controls the disease over the long term. There are many things to be aware of when using this. Today, we'll talk about it all in a very simple way, in a way that you can understand.
What is this Mometasone?
Simply put, Mometasone is a medicine that reduces inflammation in your airways, or breathing passages, and makes it easier to breathe. It belongs to a class of medicines called 'inhaled steroids'. Its main function is to prevent asthma symptoms from occurring when you use it daily.
Very important: This is not for use in a sudden asthma attack. In such an emergency, you should use the blue 'reliever' or 'rescue' inhaler that your doctor has given you. Mometasone is a controller inhaler, not a reliever .
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you start using this inhaler, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell them if you have any of the following conditions:
| Your situation | What to inform the doctor |
|---|---|
| Eye problems | If you have eye pressure-related diseases such as glaucoma. |
| Immune system weaknesses | If your body's resistance to disease is low. |
| Current infections | Especially if you have a viral infection like chickenpox, herpes, or any other infection. |
| Mouth or throat sores | If you have recently had any injury or surgery in the mouth or throat. |
| Bone weakness | If you have a bone thinning disease such as osteoporosis. |
| Use of other types of steroids | If you are using other steroids, such as Prednisone, which is taken in pill form. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to mometasone or any other medicine or food. |
How do you use this inhaler correctly?
To get the most out of this, it is essential to use the inhaler correctly.
1. At the same time every day: Use this at the same time every day, as prescribed by your doctor.
2. Inhale through your mouth: Insert the inhaler into your mouth and inhale the medicine.
3. Rinse your mouth (required!): After using the medicine, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out without swallowing it. This is very important. Failure to do so can lead to things like oral thrush.
4. Read the instruction leaflet: Read the instructions on the leaflet that comes with your inhaler carefully. If you don't understand, ask your doctor to explain.
5. For children: This is sometimes given to children over 5 years of age. However, you should ask your doctor for special instructions about it.
What if it is used too much?
If you think you have taken too much, do not panic and call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital immediately.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
Take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose on time. Never take two doses at once.
Things to consider when using
- Medical Checkups: Go to your doctor at regular intervals and check your condition. If your symptoms persist or worsen, report them.
- Asthma Action Plan: Talk to your doctor and create an 'Asthma Action Plan' that works for you. You should clearly know what to do when your asthma is worsening (yellow zone) and in an emergency (red zone).
- Risk of infection: This medicine may slightly lower your resistance to infections. So try to avoid places where people are sick. If you develop symptoms such as fever, cold, or sore throat, call your doctor.
- Bone health: Long-term use of this medication may cause a slight decrease in bone strength. Talk to your doctor about this as well and get the necessary advice.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| Side effects and precautions to take | |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately. | |
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Fungal infections of the mouth (Thrush) | White spots inside the mouth. |
| Difficulty breathing | If you experience increased difficulty breathing or wheezing after using the inhaler. |
| Decreased adrenal function | Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, dizziness. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Change in taste in the mouth, cough, headache, hoarseness, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat. | |
Take-Home Message
- Mometasone is a daily 'controller' inhaler that prevents asthma symptoms. It cannot be used for an asthma attack.
- After using the inhaler, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out.
- Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking and any other illnesses you may have.
- If you have difficulty breathing, develop white patches in your mouth, or develop allergic symptoms after using the inhaler, contact your doctor immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Never share your inhaler with anyone else.
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