Fluticasone

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Avamys (nasal spray), Cutivate (cream/ointment), Flixonase (nasal spray/nasules), Flixotide (inhaler/accuhaler), Flomist (nasal spray), Flonase (nasal spray)

Popular combinations:

Foxair (inhaler/accuhaler), Sereflo (HFA inhaler), Seretide (inhaler/accuhaler)

Drug group:

Corticosteroid

Prescription needed?

Yes (except for some nasal sprays)

What does it do?

Fluticasone is a corticosteroid drug used to control inflammation in allergic conditions:

• Asthma: regular use of inhaler can help to prevent asthma attacks
• Allergic rhinitis: daily use of nasal spray reduces the runny nose associated with hay fever
• Dermatitis and eczema: creams/ointments reduce swelling, redness and itching

How should it be used?

• Inhaled fluticasone should be used regularly to prevent asthma attacks rather than intermittently to relieve symptoms, as it does not provide immediate relief
• To reduce the risk of developing a fungal infection, rinse/gargle with water or brush your teeth after using your inhaler
• Ensure that you know how to use your device (nasal spray or inhaler) correctly
• Start using your nasal spray 2-3 weeks before the start of hay fever season

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Eczema: ointment/cream to be used as directed, but usually once daily for <2 weeks
• Allergic rhinitis (nasal sprays): 1–2 sprays into each nostril, 1–2 x daily
• Asthma (inhalers): 100–1000mcg per dose, 2 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Asthma 4–7 days, allergic rhinitis 3–4 days   
      

How long will the effects last?   

The effects can last for several days after stopping the drug
              

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor 
              

Is it safe for prolonged use?

Long-term use of fluticasone seldom causes severe side effects as the drug is being delivered directly to the skin, nasal passages or lungs, but there is a small risk of:

• Inhaled fluticasone - peptic ulcers, muscle weakness, osteoporosis, growth retardation in children (should have height monitored regularly), adrenal gland suppression
• Nasal spray - glaucoma
• Topical treatment - thinning of the skin

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• Nasal spray: irritation of the nasal passages, nosebleeds
• Inhaler: coughing, hoarseness, sore throat, fungal infection of the throat/mouth

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: chronic sinusitis, recent nasal ulcers/surgery, tuberculosis or another respiratory infection
• Other medicines: Ritonavir, telaprevir, and iraconazole
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established
• Children: Not recommended under 4 years, reduced dose necessary in older children
• Over 60: No known problems
• Driving and hazardous work: No known problems
• Alcohol: No known problems