What Is a Mometasone Inhaler?

A mometasone inhaler is a device that delivers a corticosteroid drug to a patient's airways. It is prescribed for patients with asthma. This corticosteroid inhalation drug works to alleviate symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. A mometasone inhaler helps patients with asthma breathe easier by easing irritation and swelling in the throat.

Unlike some other asthma medications, a mometasone inhaler is not a bronchodilator, which means that it is not intended to treat an asthma attack that has already begun. This drug is not fast-acting. Patients should use it regularly to help prevent asthma attacks from occurring in the future. A different asthma drug should be used to treat existing asthma attacks. Most people will be prescribed one to two doses daily.

To inhale one dose, patients should hold the mometasone inhaler upright and twist the cap, rather than the base, to load a measured dosage in the device. The patient should then expel his breath, insert the mouthpiece in his mouth, and close his lips tightly around it. He may then inhale deeply and quickly, remove the mouthpiece, and hold his breath for about 10 seconds. After wiping down the mouthpiece, the patient should twist the cap back on until he hears a clicking sound. He should also rinse his mouth with water.

Some side effects may occur with the use of this asthma medication, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become severe. Patients may experience painful or difficult urination, painful menstruation, and loss of appetite. A mometasone inhaler can also cause vomiting, dry throat, and stomach pain, as well as nose irritation or a nosebleed. Some people may notice heartburn and muscle, joint, or bone pain.

More serious side effects require immediate medical attention. This drug can sometimes cause vision changes, missed menstrual periods, and decreased libido. Patients may notice anxiety, depression, or irritability, along with fatigue and muscle weakness. Throat tightness, thinning arms and legs, and easy bruising may also occur. White patches inside the mouth, problems breathing or swallowing, and swelling have also been reported.

Before using a mometasone inhaler, patients should disclose their other medical conditions to their doctors, as well as any other medications or supplements they take. As of 2011, it is unknown whether this drug may harm a nursing infant or an unborn baby. Those with osteoporosis, high blood pressure, or liver disease may be unable to use the device. It may interact with other drugs, including ketoconazole.