Flunisolide nasal spray


  • Flunisolide is used to prevent allergic conditions of the nose, such as in hay fever.
  • Dryness, irritation of the nose and throat, and mild nose bleeds are the most common side-effects.
Type of medicine Corticosteroid
Used for Prevention and treatment of allergic conditions of the nose
Also called Syntaris®
Available as Nasal spray

Flunisolide is used to prevent and relieve allergic rhinitis. This is when the inside of the nose is inflamed and irritated, and it is commonly caused by hay fever and other allergies.

Exposure to irritants such as plant pollens, pet fur or pollution can cause the body to release a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes the lining of the nose to become swollen and itchy which in turn causes sneezing, a blocked nose, or a sore and continually runny nose.

Flunisolide nasal spray reduces the inflammation and swelling and so relieves congestion, itching, sneezing, irritation and discomfort.

Before using flunisolide nasal spray make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have recently had surgery on your nose, or recently suffered from a nasal infection.
  • If you have pulmonary tuberculosis (TB).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet. This will give you a step-by-step guide of how to use the nasal spray.
  • Flunisolide nasal spray is usually used twice daily, although sometimes it needs to be used three times daily for a short while. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you which is right for you.
  • Use flunisolide exactly as your doctor has told you.
  • Do not use flunisolide more often than your doctor or pharmacist recommends. This can increase the risk of side-effects.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with flunisolide nasal spray.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Nose bleeds, ulcers in the nose, dryness or irritation of the nose and throat. Occasionally, headache and changes in the way things smell or taste, may also occur.

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

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any dental treatment or an operation, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 23/03/2011 Document ID: 3210  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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