Rhinocort Aqua

This medicine is a corticosteroid used to treat the symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (hay fever). It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using
WARNING: If you have switched from an oral corticosteroid (e.g., prednisone tablets) to this inhaler within the past 12 months, your body may not produce enough natural steroids. You may need to start taking additional corticosteroids, especially if your body is stressed due to major infections such as stomach infections (gastroenteritis), surgery, or injury. Deaths have occurred during such stresses, due to low steroid levels. Consult your doctor or pharmacist now for specific advice regarding stress situations; you may need to carry a supply of corticosteroid tablets as a precaution. Routine blood tests may be performed (e.g., morning cortisol levels). Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following signs of low steroid levels: unusual weakness, sudden weight loss, vomiting, fainting or severe dizziness. Carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet that identifies your need for oral corticosteroids during times of stress as noted. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine is used in the nose. THIS MEDICINE COMES WITH A PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. SHAKE GENTLY before using a dose. Clear your nose before using this medicine. You may sniff gently to distribute the medicine into your nose, but do not breathe deeply. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature below 86 degrees F (30 degrees C) in an upright position, away from moisture and light. CONTINUE TO USE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT use 2 doses at once.

Cautions
DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE without checking with your doctor. IT MAY TAKE UP TO 2 WEEKS for this medicine to work. Do not stop using this medicine without checking with your doctor. IF YOU EXPERIENCE difficulty breathing; tightness of chest; swelling of eyelids, face, or lips; or if you develop a rash or hives, tell your doctor immediately. Do not take any more doses of this medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so. AVOID GETTING THIS MEDICINE IN YOUR EYES. IF YOU HAVE NOT HAD CHICKENPOX OR MEASLES, avoid contact with anyone who has any of these diseases. THIS MEDICINE MAY AFFECT GROWTH RATE in children. Your child's growth should be checked regularly while using this medicine. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.