What is fluticasone nasal spray? What is fluticasone nasal spray used for?

Fluticasone is a synthetic steroid of the glucocorticoid family of drugs that is used for treating allergic conditions involving the nose.

Fluticasone mimics the naturally-occurring hormone produced by the adrenal glands, cortisol or hydrocortisone. The exact mechanism of action of fluticasone is unknown. Fluticasone has potent anti-inflammatory actions. It is believed that fluticasone exerts its beneficial effects by inhibiting several types of cells and chemicals involved in allergic, immune and inflammatory responses. When used as a nasal inhaler or spray, the medication goes directly to the lining within the nose, and very little is absorbed into the rest of the body. The FDA approved fluticasone in October 1994.

What brand names are available for fluticasone nasal spray?

Veramyst

Is fluticasone nasal spray available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for fluticasone nasal spray?

Yes

What are the side effects of fluticasone nasal spray?

The most common side effects associated with fluticasone are headache, throat infection, nasal irritation, sneezing, cough, nausea, vomiting. Hypersensitivity reactions such as skin rash, itching, facial swelling, and anaphylaxis may occur. Some children may experience growth suppression when using fluticasone. A bloody nasal discharge (nosebleed) and septum perforation may occur. Fungal infection of the nose and throat, glaucoma, and cataracts are also associated with intranasal fluticasone.

High doses, and rarely normal doses, may suppress the adrenal glands and impair their ability to make natural cortisone. People with such suppression (which can be identified by testing) need increased amounts of cortisone orally or by the intravenous route during periods of high physical stress since higher amounts of cortisone are naturally needed by the body to fight physical stress.

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What is the dosage for fluticasone nasal spray?

Fluticasone usually is administered as two sprays in each nostril once daily, or one spray in each nostril twice daily. After a few days of continuous use, one spray in each nostril once daily may be sufficient if using Flonase. The dose for children is 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril once daily.

Which drugs or supplements interact with fluticasone nasal spray?

Ritonavir (Norvir) and ketoconazole (Nizoral) may increase the blood concentrations of fluticasone and potentially increase its side effects. Drugs that reduce the action of liver enzymes that breakdown fluticasone should not be combined with fluticasone.

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Is fluticasone nasal spray safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is not known if fluticasone is secreted in breast milk. Other medications in the same class as fluticasone are secreted into breast milk. Fluticasone should be used only while breastfeeding if it is absolutely necessary.

What else should I know about fluticasone nasal spray?

What preparations of fluticasone-nasal spray are available?

Intranasal spray: 50 or 27.5 mcg per actuation

How should I keep fluticasone-nasal spray stored?

Fluticasone should be stored at 4 C and 30 C (39 F and 86 F) and shaken well before each use.

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Medically Reviewed on 7/5/2019

References

REFERENCES:

FDA Prescribing Information on Flonase.