Nasonex (mometasone) — what it does and how to use it

Nasonex is a prescription nasal steroid spray (mometasone) most often used for allergic rhinitis and to treat nasal polyps. It reduces inflammation inside your nose so you breathe easier, sneeze less, and have less runny or blocked nose. People use it daily during allergy season or year-round when allergies are constant.

How to use Nasonex the right way

Follow your doctor’s directions, but a common adult starting dose is two sprays in each nostril once a day (then often reduced to one spray per nostril for maintenance). Shake the bottle, blow your nose gently, bend forward a little, and aim the nozzle slightly away from the center septum to avoid irritation. Breathe in gently while spraying. Don’t sniff hard. If you use other nasal sprays, separate them by several minutes or check with your provider about the order to use them.

Prime the pump before first use or after long storage by spraying into the air away from your face. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember that day — don’t double up the next day. Store at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.

What to expect — timing and effectiveness

Some people notice symptom relief within 12 to 24 hours, but the full benefit often takes several days to two weeks. If your symptoms don’t improve after two weeks at your prescribed dose, check back with your doctor — they may adjust the dose or suggest a different treatment.

Common side effects are mild: nasal dryness, irritation, throat soreness, headache, or occasional nosebleeds. If you get frequent or heavy nosebleeds, severe nasal pain, vision changes, or signs of infection (fever, severe sore throat), stop use and contact your doctor. Long-term high-dose steroid use can rarely affect hormone levels or bone health, so your provider may review ongoing risks if you use it for months or years.

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have recent nasal surgery, or have a nasal infection. Nasonex has few drug interactions when used as a nasal spray, but mention other steroid use or immune-suppressing medicines to be safe.

Looking for alternatives? Other steroid sprays like fluticasone or budesonide work similarly. If steroids aren’t ideal, your provider might suggest antihistamines, nasal antihistamine sprays, or allergy shots depending on your situation.

Bottom line: use Nasonex as prescribed, learn the spray technique, and give it time to work. If side effects bother you or symptoms don’t improve, talk to your clinician — they’ll help you find the right option for breathing easier.