What is Flonase Nasal Spray?

Flonase is a nasal spray containing fluticasone propionate. Fluticasone propionate is a corticosteroid that prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Fluticasone is used to relieve seasonal and year-round allergic and non-allergic nasal symptoms, such as stuffy/runny nose, itching, and sneezing. It can also help relieve allergy eye symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works in your nose to block the effects of substances that cause allergies (such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold) and to reduce swelling.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Use this medication in the nose as directed by your doctor or the product package, usually once or twice a day. Do not spray in your eyes.
• Gently blow your nose before using this drug. Shake the container gently before each use. Follow the instructions on how to properly prime the bottle if you are using it for the first time or if you have not used it for a week or longer.
• The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. You may be directed to start with a higher dose of this drug for the first several days until you have begun to feel better, then decrease your dose. Children may need to use this drug for a shorter amount of time to lower the risk of side effects.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
• Clean the applicator regularly. Keep track of the number of sprays used from the container. Discard the container after you have used the number of sprays on the package label.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: recent nose problems (such as injury, ulcers, surgery), infections (including tuberculosis, herpes eye infection), certain eye problems (glaucoma, cataracts), liver disease.
• If you are breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• This medication does not work right away. You may feel an effect as soon as 12 hours after starting treatment, but it may take several days before you get the full benefit. If your condition does not improve after 1 week, or if it worsens, stop using this medication and consult your doctor or pharmacist.
• You should avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu). Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.
• Though it is unlikely, this medication may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.
• Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Therefore, before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication or have used this medication within the past few months.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Nasal dryness, irritation, nausea, or vomiting.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Eye pain, facial pain, signs of nasal damage (such as pain, severe nosebleeds, a constant whistling sound from your nose), white patches in your nose/back of your throat, pain when swallowing, persistent sore throat.
• Rarely, it is possible that corticosteroids given in the nose will be absorbed into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children and people who use this medication for a long time and in high doses. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.
• Any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

Q: What should I avoid while using Flonase?

A: Avoid getting the spray in your eyes or mouth. If this does happen, rinse with water.

Avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Call your doctor for preventive treatment if you are exposed to chickenpox or measles. These conditions can be serious or even fatal in people who are using fluticasone nasal.