How to use Clarinaze nasal spray correctly for optimal relief

October 7, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, mometasone furoate, the active ingredient in Clarinaze nasal spray, is available over-the-counter for adults. Correct application is crucial to ensure this corticosteroid medication effectively treats symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.

Quick Summary

A guide on using Clarinaze nasal spray, detailing the preparation, correct application technique for best absorption, after-care, and general tips for effective allergy relief.

Key Points

Prime the bottle: Before first use or after a period of inactivity, pump the spray until a fine mist appears.
Clear your nose: Gently blow your nose before each application to clear the nasal passages for better medication absorption.
Aim correctly: Insert the nozzle into your nostril and aim it outwards, towards your ear, not towards the center of your nose (septum).
Inhale gently: Breathe in slowly and gently through your nose as you press the pump once; avoid hard sniffing.
Use consistently: For best results, use the spray daily as directed, as it can take time to reach its full effect.
Clean the nozzle: Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue after each use and replace the cap.

Preparing to use Clarinaze

Before you start, a little preparation ensures you get the maximum benefit from your nasal spray. The active ingredient, mometasone furoate, works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, but its effectiveness depends on proper delivery.

Priming the spray

This is a critical step, especially when using a new bottle or if it has been left unused for two weeks or more. Priming ensures a consistent, fine mist is delivered with each spray, rather than a single squirt of liquid.

For first-time use:

Shake the bottle gently.
Remove the protective dust cap.
Hold the bottle with your forefinger and middle finger on either side of the nozzle and your thumb underneath.
Point the nozzle away from your face and pump it 10 times until a fine, uniform mist appears.

For subsequent use (if unused for 14 days or more):

Re-prime the bottle by pumping the spray twice until a fine mist is produced.

Clearing your nasal passages

For the medication to reach the areas of inflammation in your sinuses, you must first clear your nasal passages. Gently blow your nose to remove any mucus. If your nose is particularly congested, a saline rinse can help further clear the passages, but you should wait at least 10 minutes before using Clarinaze.

The correct application technique

Following the right technique is the most important factor in achieving optimal relief. Incorrect application can lead to the medicine running down the back of your throat, where it is less effective and may cause a bad taste.

Step-by-step instructions:

Shake the bottle: Give it a gentle shake just before each use to ensure the contents are well-mixed.
Close one nostril: Use one hand to press a finger against the side of your nose to close off one nostril.
Position the nozzle: Tilt your head slightly forward and insert the nozzle into the open nostril. Aim the nozzle towards the side of your nose, away from the central wall (septum) to prevent irritation.
Spray and inhale: As you begin to breathe in slowly and gently through your nose, press down firmly on the applicator to release a single spray.
Exhale: Breathe out slowly through your mouth.
Repeat for the same nostril: If your prescribed application requires repeating the process for the same nostril, follow those instructions.
Switch nostrils: Remove the nozzle, close the treated nostril, and repeat the process for the other side.

Comparison: Proper vs. improper nasal spray technique


Feature	Proper Technique	Improper Technique
Head Position	Tilted slightly forward, looking at your feet.	Tilted backward, potentially causing medicine to go down throat.
Nozzle Aim	Angled away from the center of the nose towards the ear.	Straight up or directly towards the center of the nose (septum).
Inhalation	Gentle sniff during the spray to draw mist into the sinuses.	Hard sniff or snort, which causes medicine to drain down the throat.
Results	Maximum relief by delivering medication directly to inflamed tissues.	Reduced effectiveness and increased risk of side effects like throat irritation.
After-care	Avoid blowing your nose for 5-10 minutes.	Blowing your nose immediately, which removes the medication.

Application and ongoing treatment

The appropriate application frequency and number of sprays per nostril should be determined by a healthcare professional or indicated on the product packaging. Always use the minimum required amount to manage your symptoms effectively. Consistent, daily use as directed is important, and it can take some time for the full therapeutic effect to be felt.

After-care and cleaning

After each use, wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue to prevent buildup or contamination. Make sure to put the dust cap back on securely. Do not wash the nozzle with water, as this can interfere with the spray's mechanism. If the spray becomes clogged, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning or repriming. Never try to unblock the nozzle with a pin or other sharp object. The bottle should be discarded after a specific period following its first use, regardless of how much medication is left, as indicated by the manufacturer.

Conclusion

Using Clarinaze nasal spray effectively requires attention to detail, from proper priming and application to consistent use as directed. By following the correct procedure, you can help ensure the medication reaches the nasal passages and provides relief from allergy symptoms like hay fever, congestion, sneezing, and irritation. For ongoing symptoms or any concerns, always consult a pharmacist or doctor for advice.

For more detailed information, consult the manufacturer's patient information leaflet.

Frequently Asked Questions

The correct amount of Clarinaze nasal spray to use should be determined by a healthcare professional or by following the instructions provided on the product packaging.

Some people may feel relief within 12 to 24 hours of the first application, but it can take up to 48 hours to a few days to experience the full benefit. For consistent relief, daily use as directed is recommended.

Yes, you should shake the bottle gently before each use to ensure the medication is properly mixed and a consistent application is delivered.

For first-time use, pump the spray 10 times away from your face until a fine mist appears. If the spray has not been used for 14 days or more, you should re-prime it with two sprays.

Clarinaze can typically be used for a specified duration as indicated on the packaging or by a healthcare professional. If your symptoms have not improved after a certain period, or you need to use it continuously for longer than recommended, you should consult a doctor.

If you miss an application, use it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled application. In that case, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not apply extra to compensate for a missed application.

Common side effects can include headache, nosebleeds, sneezing, sore nose or throat, and respiratory infections. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical advice.

Clarinaze can be used safely alongside oral antihistamines like loratadine. However, you should consult your pharmacist before combining treatments to avoid duplication and ensure safety, especially if taking other corticosteroids.