Flonase

Generic name: fluticasone propionate

What is Flonase?

Flonase nasal spray is used to treat nasal symptoms (stuffy or runny nose) associated with seasonal and year-round nasal allergies, as well as year-round non-allergic nasal symptoms. Flonase is an anti-inflammatory medication that reduces the inflammation in the nasal passages causing these nasal symptoms.

What is the most important information I should know about Flonase?

Steroids, including Flonase, can suppress your immune system, making it difficult for your body to fight infections. Therefore, it is important to avoid exposure to chickenpox and measles when taking Flonase, especially if you have not had these infections or been properly immunized before.

Because steroids may slow down the rate of growth in children, their growth should be checked regularly.

Once you start using Flonase, a decrease of your nasal symptoms may be seen after 12 hours, but maximal benefit may not be noted until several days after.

Avoid spraying this medication into your eyes.

Do not use more of your medicine or take it more often than your doctor has prescribed. The maximum total daily dose should not exceed 2 sprays in each nostril.

Who should not take Flonase?

Do not use Flonase if you are allergic to it or to any of its ingredients.

Flonase should also be avoided in patients who have experienced recent nasal septal ulcers, nasal surgery, or nasal trauma until healing has occurred.

Flonase Nasal Spray is not recommended for children under 4 years of age.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Flonase?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Flonase. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you experience: weakness, dizziness, fatigue, joint/muscular pain, feeling of decreased energy, depression or any other symptoms you cannot explain; have been exposed to chickenpox or measles; have experienced recent nasal septal (the section of the nose that divides the left and right nostrils) ulcers, nasal surgery, or nasal trauma; have asthma and are receiving long-term corticosteroid treatment.

Tell your doctor if you are taking any medication containing ritonavir (a medication commonly used to treat HIV or AIDS)

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The recommended starting dose is 2 sprays in each nostril once daily or divided into 1 spray in each nostril twice daily. For long-term therapy, the dose may be reduced to 1 spray in each nostril once daily.

Adolescents and Children 4 years and older: The recommended starting dose is 1 spray in each nostril once daily. If symptom relief is not obtained, the dose may be increased to 2 sprays in each nostril once daily. Once adequate control is achieved, the dosage should be decreased to 1 spray in each nostril once daily.

The maximum total daily dose should not exceed 2 sprays in each nostril.

For Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

Adults and Children 12 years and older:

May use up to 2 sprays in each nostril once daily as needed for symptom control

How should I take Flonase?

Prime the pump according to the manufacturer's directions. Blow your nose to clear nostrils. For each spray, close one nostril. Tilt head slightly forward keeping the bottle upright and carefully insert the nasal applicator into the other nostril. Start to breathe in through the nose and while breathing in, press firmly down on the applicator to release the spray holding the bottle as before described. Avoid spraying into eyes and breathe gently inward through the nostril. Breathe out through your mouth.

Once you have administered the required number of sprays, wipe the nasal applicator with a clean tissue and replace the dust cover.

Do not use this bottle for more than the labeled number of sprays, even if the bottle is not completely empty.

What should I avoid while taking Flonase?

Do not exceed the recommended maximum dose of 2 sprays in each nostril per day.

Do not take the drug ritonavir while taking this medication.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Flonase?

If Flonase is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Flonase with ketoconazole or ritonavir.

What are the possible side effects of Flonase?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: cataracts, headache, increased eye pressure, nasal burning or irritation, nasal fungal infections, nasal septum perforation, nosebleed, throat inflammation, wheezing,

Can I receive Flonase if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Flonase during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Flonase?

If you miss a dose, skip the dose you missed and return to your next scheduled dose. Do not double your dose.

How should I store Flonase?

Store at room temperature.