Veramyst

Generic name: Fluticasone Furoate

What is Veramyst?

Veramyst is a medicine that treats seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms in adults and children 2 years old and older. Veramyst contains fluticasone furoate, which is a man-made (synthetic) corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are natural substances found in the body that reduce inflammation. When you spray Veramyst into your nose, it helps reduce the nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the lining of the nose), such as stuffy nose, runny nose, itching, and sneezing. Veramyst may also help red, itchy, and watery eyes in adults and teenagers with seasonal allergic rhinitis.

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

Rare fungal infections may occur with treatment with Veramyst Nasal Spray. In addition, nasal corticosteroids are associated with nasal bleeding, nasal ulcerations, and nasal septal perforation and impaired wound healing.

Patients who have experienced recent nasal ulcers, nasal surgery, or nasal trauma should not use Veramyst Nasal Spray until healing has occurred.

Glaucoma and cataracts are associated with nasal and inhaled corticosteroid use. You should have regular eye exams, and inform your health care provider if a change in vision is noted while using Veramyst Nasal Spray.

Immune system effects may increase the risk of infections with the use of Veramyst. Veramyst Nasal Spray should be used on a regular once-daily basis for optimal effect. Veramyst, like other corticosteroids, does not have an immediate effect on rhinitis symptoms. Although significant improvement is usually achieved within 24 hours with seasonal allergic rhinitis and 4 days with perennial allergic rhinitis, maximum benefit may not be reached for several days.

Long-term use of systemic corticosteroids may cause adrenal suppression.

Abrupt discontinuation may cause joint pain, muscular pain, and depression. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider's instructions when discontinuing this drug.

Make sure to tell you doctor if you have any form of liver disease.

Children taking Veramyst should have their growth checked regularly since corticosteroids may slow the growth of children.

Who should not take Veramyst?

You should not use Veramyst if you have had recent nasal surgery, nasal ulcers, or nasal trauma; if you've recently been exposed to chicken pox or measles; if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding; if you have liver disease or you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Veramyst.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Veramyst, especially if you are taking a medicine that contains ritonavir (commonly used to treat HIV infection or AIDS). Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or you are breastfeeding; if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in Veramyst or any other nasal corticosteroid; if you have been exposed to chickenpox or measles; or if you are feeling unwell or have any symptoms that you do not understand.

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 and children 12 years and older: The usual starting dosage is 2 sprays in each nostril, once a day. After you begin to feel better, your healthcare provider may recommend 1 spray in each nostril once a day.

Children 2 to 11 years: The usual starting dosage is 1 spray in each nostril, once a day. Your healthcare provider may tell you to take 2 sprays in each nostril once a day. After you begin to feel better, your healthcare provider may change the dosage to 1 spray in each nostril once a day.

How should I take Veramyst?

Before you use a new bottle the first time, you need to prime Veramyst Nasal Spray: With the cap on, shake the device well. Take the cap off by squeezing the finger grips and pulling it straight off. Do not press the button while you take off the cap. Hold the device with the nozzle pointing up and away from you. Place your thumb on the button. Then firmly press and release the button 6 times or until a fine mist is sprayed from the nozzle. Your Veramyst Nasal Spray is now ready to use.

Before taking a dose of Veramyst Nasal Spray, gently blow your nose to clear your nostrils. Tilt your head forward a little bit. Hold the device upright. Place the nozzle in one of your nostrils. Point the end of the nozzle toward the side of your nose, away from the center of your nose (septum). This helps get the medicine to the right part of your nose. Firmly press the button 1 time to spray the medicine in your nose while you are breathing in.

Do not get any spray in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes well with water.

Take the nozzle out of your nose. Breathe out through your mouth. Repeat these steps in the other nostril as well.

Put the cap back on the device after you have finished taking your dose. After each use, wipe the nozzle with a clean, dry tissue. Never try to clean the nozzle with a pin or anything sharp because this may damage the nozzle.

What should I avoid while taking Veramyst?

Avoid skipping doses of your medication. To get the best results with Veramyst you must be on top of your doses. Avoid giving this medication to a person that it is not prescribed for. Corticosteroids can be dangerous for some people who are not approved by a health care professional to take them. Keep this medication away from your eyes and mouth. Never leave your Veramyst device un-capped.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Veramyst?

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

What are the possible side effects of Veramyst?

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: cough and fever, nasal sores, nosebleeds, and headaches

Can I receive Veramyst if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Veramyst 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 Veramyst?

If you remember to take your dose within 12 hours of your scheduled time, go ahead and take the missed dose. If you remember to take your dose when it is more than 12 hours past your scheduled time, skip that dose and take the next one. Do not double the dose.

How should I store Veramyst?

Store Veramyst upright, at room temperature. Keep it out of the reach of children.