Main Findings

Mometasone furoate (MF) is an inhaled corticosteroid that has been shown to be effective in treating asthma. 3 A study found that MF inhaler improved health-related quality of life (HRQL) and reduced the need for oral corticosteroids in patients with severe persistent asthma. 3 A review article also indicated that MF inhaler is well-tolerated and as effective as other inhaled corticosteroids. 2 Another study found that oral administration of MF in rats maintained anti-inflammatory effects while minimizing metabolic adverse effects. 1

Reasons for side effects

MF inhaler is generally considered safe and severe side effects have not been reported. 2 However, inhaled corticosteroids may cause irritation or cough due to their local action on the airway mucosa. 2 Long-term use may also lead to side effects such as oral candidiasis. 3

Common side effects

Oral candidiasis

A common side effect of MF inhaler is oral candidiasis. 3 Oral candidiasis is an infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida fungus in the mouth. Symptoms include mouth sores, white patches on the tongue, and angular cheilitis. Oral candidiasis can occur due to the suppression of immunity in the mouth by inhaled corticosteroids. 2

Irritation upon inhalation

Inhalation of MF inhaler may cause irritation of the airway mucosa. 2 This is because inhaled corticosteroids directly act on the airway mucosa. Symptoms include cough, phlegm, and shortness of breath. Inhalation irritation can be reduced by adjusting the inhalation method and dosage. 2

Countermeasures for side effects

Oral candidiasis

Rinsing the mouth after inhalation is effective in preventing oral candidiasis. 3 If oral candidiasis develops, antifungal medications should be used. 2

Irritation upon inhalation

Correct inhalation technique is essential to reduce irritation upon inhalation. 2 Rinsing the mouth before inhalation is also effective. 2 If the irritation is severe, consult your doctor. 2

Comparison across studies

Commonalities

Multiple studies have shown that MF inhaler is effective in treating asthma. 3 , 2 It is also generally considered to be well-tolerated and as effective as other inhaled corticosteroids. 2

Differences

The administration method and target patients varied across studies, leading to different findings. 3 , 2 For example, a study found that MF inhaler improved HRQL and reduced the need for oral corticosteroids in patients with severe persistent asthma. 3 Another review article suggested that MF inhaler is as effective as and well-tolerated as other inhaled corticosteroids. 2 In addition, another study showed that oral MF maintained anti-inflammatory effects while minimizing metabolic adverse effects in rats. 1

Notes on real-world application

MF inhaler is an effective medication for treating asthma, but it can have side effects. 3 , 2 It is crucial to use it correctly according to your doctor's instructions to minimize the risk of side effects. 2 In particular, preventing oral candidiasis by rinsing the mouth after inhalation is important. 3 If you experience irritation upon inhalation, ensure you are using the correct inhalation technique. 2

Limitations of current research

The long-term effects of MF inhaler are not yet fully understood. 2 Further research is needed to determine the impact of MF inhaler on pregnant or breastfeeding women. 2

Future directions for research

Further research is needed on the long-term effects of MF inhaler and its impact on pregnant or breastfeeding women. 2 Comparative studies between MF inhaler and other inhaled corticosteroids are also required to assess its efficacy and safety. 2

Conclusion

MF inhaler is an effective medication for treating asthma, but it can have side effects. 3 , 2 It is crucial to use it correctly according to your doctor's instructions to minimize the risk of side effects. 2 If you have any concerns about asthma treatment, please consult your doctor. 2