Fluticasone nasal preparations

Overview

Fluticasone is a type of steroid (corticosteroid) used to prevent, or ease, rhinitis. This is a condition where the inside of your nose becomes inflamed and irritated. It is commonly caused by allergies, such as hay fever.

How does fluticasone work?

Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nose, helping to relieve congestion, itching, sneezing, irritation, and discomfort of nasal allergies.

What is fluticasone available as?

Fluticasone is available on prescription as a nasal spray or nasal drops. There are several different brands available. You can also buy smaller packs of some brands without a prescription at pharmacies.

The Dymista® brand of fluticasone spray also contains a medicine called azelastine. Azelastine is an antihistamine. Antihistamines help to ease the symptoms of rhinitis too.

Fluticasone nose drops (brand Flixonase® Nasule) are used for nasal polyps. Polyps are small growths inside the nose that can cause symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis.

Common side effects of fluticasone include:

• Dryness and irritation of the nose and throat.

• Unusual tastes and smells.

• Blocked or congested nose.

• Runny nose.

• Itchy nose.

• Headache.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet inside your pack.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using fluticasone, let your doctor or pharmacist know:

• If you have an infection in your nose.

• If you have recently had any surgery on your nose.

• If you have tuberculosis (TB).

• If it is intended for a child. (Fluticasone is suitable for use by children, but only if it has been prescribed by a doctor.)

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• If you are taking or using other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• Read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack for a step-by-step guide of how to use the spray/drops, and a full list of the side effects.

• Try to remember to use fluticasone regularly, even if your symptoms are controlled.

• If you forget a dose at your usual time, take it as soon as you remember unless your next dose is due. If your next dose is due then have the dose which is due and leave out the forgotten one. Do not 'double up' to make up for a missed dose.

If you are using fluticasone nasal spray

• Use the spray in both nostrils.

• Most adults use 2 sprays in each nostril once daily (e.g. Flixonase®, Nasofan®, Avamys®).

• For Dymista®, use 1 spray in each nostril twice daily.

• Check the label carefully to make sure you are using the correct dose for your brand.

• Use it at the same time(s) each day.

• Once symptoms improve, you may be able to reduce to 1 spray in each nostril once daily (if the label says this is suitable).

• Keep using it regularly, even when symptoms are controlled.

• If bought without seeing a doctor and there is no improvement after 7 days, book an appointment with your GP.

• Do not use it more often or longer than recommended, as this may increase side effects.

• Fluticasone can usually be used for up to 3 months, or longer if prescribed by a doctor.

• For hay fever, start using it 2–3 weeks before the season begins for best results.

If you are using fluticasone nose drops

• Use the drops once or twice daily as recommended by your doctor.

• If your symptoms have not improved after 4-6 weeks of using the drops, contact your doctor for further advice.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• Flixonase Nasules® only keep for four weeks once the foil wrapper has been opened. Always keep unused Nasules® in the foil and dispose of any which are unused after this time.

• Check the label for how long you can use fluticasone spray once it has been opened. After this time, get a fresh supply.

Can I use fluticasone during pregnancy?

Fluticasone can be used during pregnancy, with both nasal sprays and drops generally considered safe because very little of the medicine enters the bloodstream.

Can I drink alcohol while using fluticasone?

Yes, you can usually drink alcohol while using fluticasone. There are no known direct interactions between alcohol and fluticasone inhalers or nasal sprays.