Asmanex (generic name: mometasone furoate) can be prescribed to treat asthma that requires long-term daily control. It is an inhaled corticosteroid designed to reduce swelling inside the airways. Asthma is a condition in which the breathing passages become inflamed and overly sensitive, making them narrow easily. By lowering inflammation, Asmanex helps the airways stay open and more stable throughout the day.
Mometasone furoate is used to prevent ongoing symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and night-time coughing. These symptoms often occur when airway swelling is not controlled. Asmanex does not provide quick relief during a sudden asthma attack; a separate fast-acting rescue inhaler is needed for that purpose. Its role is to decrease the frequency of flare-ups, reduce the need for rescue medicines, and help improve day-to-day breathing comfort.
Asmanex is delivered directly into the lungs through a metered-dose inhaler. Because it acts locally where inflammation occurs, the amount of steroid that reaches the rest of the body is kept lower than with oral corticosteroids. Different strengths allow the dose to be tailored to the person’s age and asthma severity.
Taken every day as prescribed, Asmanex supports steadier breathing, fewer asthma disruptions, and improved overall control of persistent symptoms.
Dosage
NOTE: The strengths of Asmanex Twisthaler are shown according to the European manufacturer’s specifications. The following table shows the equivalent US strengths:
100 mcg = 110 mcg in USA
200 mcg = 220 mcg in USA
400 mcg = 440 mcg in USA
It is important to follow the dosage instructions printed on the label of the box. Check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any doubts regarding the proper dosage and treatment regimen.
Asmanex is taken by inhaling the medicine through the mouth using a metered-dose inhaler. Adults are usually prescribed strengths containing 100, 200 or 400 micrograms per actuation (US strengths 110, 220 or 440 mcg). The typical dosage is 100 mcg for patients 4 to 11 years old, and 200 mcg for adolescents 12 years and older.
The inhaler is usually taken twice daily – once in the morning and once in the evening – although the exact dose depends on asthma severity and previous treatment.
After each dose, the person should rinse the mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent thrush. If a dose is missed, it should be taken at the next regular time; a double dose must not be taken. Once asthma becomes stable, the doctor may lower the dose to the minimum needed to maintain good control.
Storage
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Store at room temperature: 20-25 °C (68-77 °F).
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Do not store above 30 °C (86 °F).
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Do not puncture or burn the inhaler canister; the contents are under pressure and may explode if exposed to high temperatures or open flame.
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Keep the cap on the mouthpiece when not in use and keep inhaler dry.
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Keep out of reach of children.
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Expiry date refers to the last day of the printed month.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
The patient information leaflet that comes with the medication includes full information about the correct usage, storage and possible side effects. Be sure to read and understand these, and if there are any questions, discuss these with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting treatment.
Most people who use Asmanex do not experience any adverse side effects. Doctors prescribe this medication because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Common side effects:
Serious side effects requiring immediate action:
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sudden worsening of asthma or increasing difficulty breathing
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severe oral thrush causing pain or swallowing problems
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signs of adrenal issues such as extreme tiredness or dizziness
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slowed growth in children
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vision changes or eye pressure concerns
Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Asmanex is prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in people aged 4 years and older. It helps manage symptoms caused by long-term airway inflammation.
Common symptoms of uncontrolled asthma include:
These symptoms happen when the breathing passages are irritated and narrowed by swelling. Cold air, exercise, allergens, infections, or smoke can trigger attacks.
Asmanex does not treat sudden asthma attacks because it does not work quickly enough. A fast-acting rescue inhaler is needed for emergencies. Instead, Asmanex helps keep the airways calmer over time, making flare-ups less frequent and breathing more consistent. For people whose asthma persists despite occasional symptoms, daily inhaled corticosteroid therapy like Asmanex is often an important part of long-term asthma control.