From the Guidelines
Budesonide nasal spray is approved for use in children aged 6 years and older. According to the clinical practice guideline on allergic rhinitis 1, the minimum pediatric age of use for Budesonide (Rhinocort AQ) 32 µg per spray is ≥6 years.
Key Points
- The recommended dosage for children aged 6 years and older is 2 sprays per nostril twice a day or 4 sprays per nostril in the morning 1.
- Common side effects of Budesonide nasal spray include epistaxis, pharyngitis, bronchospasm, coughing, and nasal irritation 1.
- It is essential to use the medication regularly for optimal effect, as it may take several days to a week to notice improvement in allergy symptoms.
- Parents should help younger children with proper administration technique, keeping the child's head upright and directing the spray away from the nasal septum.
- Budesonide works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, decreasing the body's immune response to allergens, and is effective for managing allergic rhinitis symptoms including nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.
Important Considerations
- The medication should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially in children, to ensure proper use and minimize potential side effects.
- It is crucial to continue the medication as prescribed even after symptoms improve to maintain control over allergic rhinitis symptoms.
From the FDA Drug Label
Safety and effectiveness in children six months to 12 months of age has been evaluated but not established. Safety and effectiveness in children 12 months to 8 years of age have been established The minimum pediatric age of use for Budesonide inhalation suspension is 12 months 2.
From the Research
Minimum Pediatric Age of Use for Budesonide Nasal Spray
- The minimum pediatric age of use for Budesonide nasal spray is not uniformly established across all studies, but several studies provide insight into its usage in children:
- A study from 3 indicates that budesonide is approved for children aged 6 years and older.
- However, a study from 4 evaluated the effects of budesonide aqueous nasal spray on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function in children with allergic rhinitis, aged 2 to 5 years, suggesting its potential use in younger children.
- Another study from 5 assessed the effects of budesonide aqueous nasal spray on growth velocity in children with perennial allergic rhinitis, with a mean age of 5.9 years, further supporting its use in children under 6 years old.
- Key points regarding the use of budesonide nasal spray in pediatric patients include:
- Efficacy and safety in children aged 6 years and older are well-established 6, 3.
- Potential for use in children under 6 years old, with studies indicating safety and efficacy in this age group 4, 5.
- Importance of considering the risk-benefit ratio and potential systemic effects when prescribing intranasal corticosteroids to children 7.