Asmanex Twisthaler (Mometasone)

Asmanex Twisthaler (mometasone furoate) is a corticosteroid inhaler used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and children 4 years and older. Mometasone furoate works by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps prevent asthma symptoms when it’s taken daily. This medication isn't a rescue inhaler and won't treat sudden asthma attacks that have already started.

Directions

Asmanex Twisthaler is typically used by mouth once daily in the evening or twice daily (morning and evening), depending on what a doctor or healthcare provider prescribes. Adults who previously used bronchodilators alone typically start with 220 mcg once daily, with a maximum dose of 440 mcg per day. Adults who previously used inhaled corticosteroids may need 220 mcg twice daily, with a maximum of 880 mcg per day. Children ages 4 to 11 usually take 110 mcg once daily in the evening, regardless of previous therapy.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in this drug is mometasone.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Asmanex can sometimes cause a yeast infection in the mouth or throat. To lower the risk, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each dose.
• This medication is not meant for sudden asthma attacks. You should always keep a quick-acting rescue inhaler, like albuterol, on hand.
• Allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, and rare cases of anaphylaxis, have been reported. Asmanex contains trace milk proteins, so people with a severe milk allergy should not use it.
• Because Asmanex is a corticosteroid, it can weaken your immune system. This means illnesses like chickenpox or measles can be more severe if you're exposed and not immune.
• People switching from oral steroids to Asmanex need close monitoring. The body can take months to adjust, and some may develop adrenal insufficiency, a condition where the body cannot handle stress well.
• Using higher doses for long periods may cause steroid-related side effects such as adrenal suppression, slower bone growth in children, or reduced bone density in adults. Children should have their growth monitored, and those with osteoporosis risk factors may need extra follow-up.
• Rare eye problems like glaucoma or cataracts have been seen in some users. Tell your doctor if you notice vision changes, eye pain, or halos around lights. In rare cases, Asmanex may also trigger a paradoxical bronchospasm, a sudden worsening of wheezing right after using the inhaler.
• Asmanex may interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as ketoconazole or certain HIV and antibiotic medications. These drugs can increase steroid levels in the body.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or acute asthma episodes requiring intensive intervention
• Known hypersensitivity to mometasone furoate or any ingredients in the formulation
• Allergic reactions to any component of Asmanex Twisthaler

Side Effects

Common side effects of Asmanex Twisthaler include:

• Headache
• Sore throat
• Sinus or upper-respiratory infections
• Upset stomach
• Muscle, bone, or back pain
• Nasal allergy symptoms

These effects are usually mild and improve over time. Some people may also develop thrush, a yeast infection in the mouth or throat, which appears as redness or white patches; rinsing and spitting after each dose helps lower this risk. Any persistent throat irritation, coughing, or worsening asthma symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

More serious side effects can occur, especially with long-term or high-dose use. Asmanex can weaken the immune system, lower adrenal function, increase the risk of infections, or trigger sudden wheezing right after inhalation. Long-term use may also reduce bone density, slow growth in children, or cause eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma.

Seek medical attention right away for allergic reactions, severe fatigue, dizziness, facial swelling, or signs of infection such as fever, chills, persistent nausea, or worsening breathing.