Related to this topic: Patient+ | Medicines | Pharmacy | Equipment | Books | Your Experience | Other resources | Glossaries
Print options: Printer friendly version of this leaflet (html)     Other options: See related products available from our registered pharmacy AddThis Social Bookmark Button (what's this?)

Fluticasone nasal preparations

  • Fluticasone is used to prevent and relieve allergy of the inside of the nose; commonly caused by hay fever and other allergies. It can also be used to treat nasal polyps which are small lumps found inside the nose.
  • Dryness and irritation of the nose and throat, mild nose bleeds or disturbance of taste and smell and headache are the most common side effects.

About fluticasone nasal preparations

Type of medicine Corticosteroids
Used for Fluticasone is used to prevent and relieve allergic conditions of the nose and for nasal polyps (small lumps on the inside of the nose)
Also called Flixonase Nasal Spray; Flixonase Nasule; Nasofan
Available as Nasal spray and drops

Fluticasone is used to prevent and relieve allergic rhinitis, inflammation of the inside of the nose, 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, sore and continually runny nose.

Nasal polyps, which are small growths inside the nose, can also cause similar symptoms.

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 suffer from glaucoma
  • If you have recently had surgery on your nose or recently suffered from a nasal infection
  • If you have tuberculosis (TB)
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine

How to use fluticasone nasal preparations

Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.

NASAL SPRAY:

  1. Blow your nose gently
  2. Shake the container and remove cap
  3. Tilt your head back and insert the nozzle of the spray into the nostril, taking care to keep the canister upright as shown in the instruction leaflet. Push down firmly on the canister to administer one puff
  4. If a second dose is required, administer another dose
  5. Repeat in the other nostril if you have been instructed to use Fluticasone in both nostrils
  6. Wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the cap immediately after use

NASAL DROPS:

  1. Wash your hands
  2. Remove the outer cap
  3. Tilt your head back. You may find it easier to rest your head over the back of a chair or the side of a bed
  4. Turn the container upside down near to the nostril, trying not to touch the inside of the nose
  5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release six drops into the nostril
  6. Repeat in the other nostril if you have been instructed to use Fluticasone in both nostrils
  7. Keep your head tilted back for a short while to allow the drops to run down into your nose and sniff gently
  8. Discard the single use pack
  9. Wash your hands

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Use fluticasone exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Fluticasone nasal spray should only be used by one person.
  • Do not use fluticasone more often than your doctor or pharmacist recommends. This can increase the risk of side effects.
  • Fluticasone is not recommended for use in children under four years old.
  • If you are using fluticasone to relieve the symptoms of hay fever, your doctor may recommend that you start using the nasal spray two to three weeks before the hay fever season starts.
  • If you are using fluticasone drops to treat nasal polyps and your symptoms have not improved after six weeks, contact your doctor for advice.
  • Avoid getting fluticasone in your eyes. If you accidentally get any of this preparation in your eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water.

Can fluticasone nasal preparations cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Dryness and irritation of the nose and throat Try rinsing your mouth with water/gargling after using the nasal spray or drops; if it continues or becomes a problem contact your doctor.
Mild nose bleeds or disturbance of taste and smell Try rinsing your mouth/gargling with water after using the nasal spray or drops; if it continues or becomes a problem contact your doctor.
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.

How to store fluticasone nasal preparations

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

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • 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. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • 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.
© EMIS 2007 DocID:
3438
DocRef:
dils2560
Last Updated:
19 Jul 2007
Date of Next Review:
18 Jul 2009
Version:
22

Patient Experience


















Disclaimer: Patient UK has no control of the content of the above links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient UK.

Advertise on this site










Disclaimer: Patient UK has no control of the content of the above links. Inclusion does not imply endorsement by Patient UK.

Advertise on this site


PS - Health and Poverty

Perhaps the biggest cause of ill health in the world is poverty. Help to Make Poverty History. For example, why not lend some of your money to disadvantaged communities to enable them to trade their way out of poverty through schemes such as Shared Interest.

See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

^ Top of Page