Asmanex (30 Metered Doses)

Asmanex (30 Metered Doses) is FDA-approved for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 years and older. It is intended for daily use to control and prevent asthma symptoms over the long term. Asmanex is not approved for the treatment of acute bronchospasm or as a rescue inhaler.

Asmanex is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mometasone furoate or any other components of the inhaler. It should not be used for the relief of acute bronchospasm (asthma attacks). Patients with untreated fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections should use caution, as corticosteroids can suppress the immune response.

Patients using Asmanex should be advised to use the inhaler regularly as prescribed, even if they are not experiencing asthma symptoms. It is important to rinse the mouth with water after each use and spit it out to reduce the risk of developing oral thrush, a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids. Patients should understand that Asmanex is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks. They should have a short-acting bronchodilator (like albuterol) available for such situations. If symptoms worsen or the rescue inhaler becomes less effective, they should contact their healthcare provider.

Common side effects of Asmanex include headache, sore throat, cough, and hoarseness. Some patients may experience oral thrush, which is a fungal infection of the mouth. Serious side effects, though rare, can include decreased bone density, slowed growth in children, and an increased risk of infections. Patients should seek medical attention if they experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids like Asmanex may be associated with a risk of decreased bone mineral density, particularly in patients at risk for osteoporosis. In children, long-term use may potentially slow growth, so growth should be monitored regularly. Patients with a history of tuberculosis, untreated infections, or ocular conditions like glaucoma or cataracts should use Asmanex with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

Asmanex may interact with other medications, particularly those that affect the immune system. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking. Use of other corticosteroids or immune-suppressing drugs concurrently with Asmanex may increase the risk of side effects.

Alternative treatments for asthma include other inhaled corticosteroids, such as budesonide (Pulmicort) or fluticasone (Flovent). Combination inhalers that include both an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA), such as fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair) or budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort), may also be considered. The choice of treatment will depend on the severity of asthma and the patient’s response to previous treatments.