Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces  inflammation and swelling when applied intranasally. The most popular method for administering this medication is with an atomizer that distributes a fine spray of liquid medication into the nasal passages and sinus area. It may also be prescribed in an individual nasal spray bottle, which provides metered doses of each spray, or as a nasal irrigation with a saline rinse bottle.

Effectiveness of Intranasal Budesonide

Intranasal budesonide works well for treating:

• Allergic rhinitis symptoms, such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itching, or swelling of the nasal passageway
• Nasal polyps in the lining of the nasal passage

One study showed that Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) scores were significantly higher in patient groups treated with intranasal budesonide compared to placebo. In this study, about 4/5 patients experienced a clinically meaningful improvement in their sinusitis symptoms. Budesonide is a corticosteroid, so it works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages that causes the feeling of congestion. While congestion is associated with increased mucus and discharge, the feeling of being congested is actually most often due to inflammation.

Nasal Spray

A nasal spray bottle containing this medication may be prescribed. The nasal spray bottle offers a metered-dose pump that dispenses a consistent amount of medication with each actuation.

Atomization

Atomization with the RhinoClear Sprint has become one of the more frequently prescribed methods of administering compounded intranasal medications. The RhinoClear Sprint is a battery powered device that sends a fine spray of medicated solution deep into the nasal passages and sinuses.

Nasal Irrigation

Nasal irrigation with a saline rinse may be used to administer this medication. The medication is combined with the saline solution in a nasal rinse bottle that is used to irrigate the nasal passages and sinuses.

Research

• Effect of Budesonide Added to Large-Volume, Low-pressure Saline Sinus Irrigation for Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial. – JAMA Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgergy