About fluticasone nasal preparations

Fluticasone 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.

Fluticasone nasal preparations reduce the inflammation and swelling and so relieve congestion, itching, sneezing, irritation and discomfort.

Fluticasone nasal spray and drops are also used for nasal polyps, which are small growths inside the nose that can cause symptoms similar to allergic rhinitis.

Before using fluticasone nasal preparations

Before using fluticasone nasal preparations 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 and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use fluticasone nasal preparations

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. This will give you a step-by-step guide of how to use the preparation you have been given.
• Fluticasone nasal preparations are usually used once daily in the morning, although sometimes they need to be used twice daily for a short while. Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you which is right for you.
• Use fluticasone exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not use fluticasone more often than your doctor or pharmacist recommends. This can increase the risk of side-effects.
• If this preparation is for a child, read the label and directions carefully as not all preparations are suitable for children.
• If you are using fluticasone nasal spray to relieve the symptoms of hay fever, your doctor may recommend that you start using it 2-3 weeks before the hay fever season starts.
• If you are using fluticasone drops to treat nasal polyps and your symptoms have not improved after 4-6 weeks, contact your doctor for further advice.

Can fluticasone nasal preparations cause problems?

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, 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.

How to store fluticasone nasal preparations

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Fluticasone nasal drops (Flixonase Nasules®) only keep for 4 weeks once the foil wrapper has been opened. Discard any which are unused after this time and make sure you have a fresh supply.

Important information about all medicines