Asmanex HFA (Mometasone)

Description

Asmanex HFA (mometasone furoate) is an inhaler used in patients 5 years old or older to control asthma.

Do not use Asmanex HFA as a rescue inhaler.

Directions

Asmanex HFA is available as an inhaler that contains 50 mcg, 100 mcg, or 200 mcg of a corticosteroid known as mometasone furoate in each puff.

The initial dose is based on previous treatments for asthma. 

Asmanex HFA directions:

1. Take the cap off the inhaler's mouthpiece.
2. To reduce the risk of fungal infections of the mouth, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after using Asmanex HFA. 
3. Do not take the canister off the inhaler.
4. Use a dry wipe to clean the mouthpiece after every 7 days of use. Do not wash it in water.

Previous asthma treatment determines the starting dose of Asmanex HFA.

Patients who are at 12 years old or older are recommended to inhale 2 puffs by mouth twice daily of Asmanex HFA 100 mcg or 200 mcg.

Patients who are 5 to 11 years old are recommended to inhale 2 puffs by mouth two twice daily of Asmanex HFA 50 mcg.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Asmanex HFA is mometasone furoate, a corticosteroid.

Contraindications

Sudden asthmatic episodes that require intensive treatment should not be treated with Asmanex HFA. It also should not be used as the primary asthma treatment. 

Avoid using Asmanex HFA if you have an allergy to any of the ingredients in the inhaler.

Cautions

• Before you begin treatment with Asmanex HFA, tell your doctor:
• If you take any medications
• If you have any allergies
• About any health conditions you may have
• About your pregnancy or breastfeeding status 
• The use of Asmanex HFA can cause fungal infections of the mouth and throat. After each use, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. 
• The symptoms of tuberculosis, fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections or herpes simplex of the eye may be worsened by Asmanex HFA. Severe and life-threatening episodes of chickenpox or measles may appear in patients who are susceptible.
• Hypercorticism and adrenal suppression can be caused by Asmanex HFA. If these effects occur, your doctor may slowly taper you off Asmanex HFA.
• Caution should be used while using Asmanex HFA with strong cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibitors. If you are unsure whether or not you take these medications, talk to your doctor. 
• The use of Asmanex HFA can induce paradoxical bronchospasm. Talk to your doctor if this occurs as he or she may decide to discontinue treatment with Asmanex HFA.
• The use of Asmanex HFA can cause serious allergic reactions. Immediately seek emergency attention if you develop a rash, trouble breathing, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Bone mineral density loss can be caused by Asmanex HFA. 
• Pediatric patients who use Asmanex HFA should have their growth monitored. 
• Vision problems such as glaucoma and cataracts can be caused by Asmanex HFA. 

Side Effects

Nasopharyngitis, headache, sinusitis, bronchitis, and flu are side effects of Asmanex HFA.

Reference:

Asmanex HFA (mometasone furoate) inhalation aerosol, for oral inhalation use. Jersey City, NJ: Organon & Co.; 2021.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....