Beclomethasone Inhaler: What It Is and How It Works

The beclomethasone inhaler is a steroid spray that helps keep asthma and chronic breathing problems under control. It delivers a tiny amount of medicine directly to your lungs, reducing swelling and mucus that can block airways. Because the drug goes straight to the lungs, you feel relief faster and need less overall medication compared to pills.

When and Why You’ll Need It

Doctors usually prescribe beclomethasone for people who need a daily, long‑term plan to stop flare‑ups before they start. If you get wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath often, this inhaler can lower the chances of an emergency visit. It’s also a good backup for those who use a rescue inhaler (like albuterol) when symptoms pop up suddenly. The key is to use it every day, even when you feel fine, so the lungs stay calm.

Most patients start with a low dose—often one puff twice a day—and the doctor may increase it if symptoms persist. The exact number of puffs depends on your age, severity of asthma, and how you respond. Children usually need a smaller dose than adults, so never guess; always follow the prescription.

How to Use It Correctly

First, shake the inhaler for a few seconds. Then, breathe out fully (but don’t exhale into the mouthpiece). Put the mouthpiece between your teeth, close your lips around it, and start to breathe in slowly. Press down on the canister as you begin to inhale, then keep breathing in for about three seconds. Hold your breath for ten seconds before breathing out. This sequence makes sure the medicine reaches deep into the lungs instead of sticking in your throat.

Clean the mouthpiece once a week with a dry cloth—no water. A dirty mouthpiece can block the spray or cause a bad taste. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one. Don’t double up; just keep to the regular schedule.

Timing matters if you use more than one inhaler. Space out beclomethasone and any rescue inhaler by at least five minutes. This prevents the steroid from being washed away before it can work.

Side effects are usually mild, but they can happen. The most common are hoarseness, a sore throat, or a fungal infection (thrush) in the mouth. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to lower that risk. If you notice persistent coughing, wheezing that gets worse, or unusual swelling, call your doctor right away—they might adjust the dose or suggest a different medication.

Finally, store the inhaler at room temperature, away from direct heat or cold. Extreme temperatures can change the spray pressure and affect how much medicine you get per puff. Keep it out of reach of kids, and if the canister feels empty or you can’t hear a spray, replace it even if the date on the label looks fine.

By following these simple steps—regular use, proper technique, and regular cleaning—you’ll get the most benefit from your beclomethasone inhaler and keep asthma symptoms in check. If anything feels off, don’t wait; a quick chat with your healthcare provider can keep you breathing easy.