Flonase General Information
Flonase is used to relieve seasonal and year-round allergic and non-allergic nasal symptoms, such as stuffy/runny nose, itching, and sneezing. It can also help relieve allergy eye symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes. Flonase belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works in your nose to block the effects of substances that cause allergies (such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold) and to reduce swelling.
How to Use Flonase
If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using Flonase. If your doctor has prescribed Flonase, read the Patient Information Leaflet before you start using Flonase and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Use Flonase in the nose as directed by your doctor or the product package, usually once or twice a day. Do not spray in your eyes.
Gently blow your nose before using Flonase. Shake the container gently before each use. Follow the instructions on how to properly prime the bottle if you are using it for the first time or if you have not used it for a week or longer.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use Flonase more often or for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. You may be directed to start with a higher dose of Flonase for the first several days until you have begun to feel better, then decrease your dose. Children may need to use Flonase for a shorter amount of time to lower the risk of side effects. If a child is using the over-the-counter product, read the package information to see how long he/she should use it and when you should check with the doctor.
Use Flonase regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
Clean the applicator regularly. Keep track of the number of sprays used from the container. Discard the container after you have used the number of sprays on the package label.
Flonase does not work right away. You may feel an effect as soon as 12 hours after starting treatment, but it may take several days before you get the full benefit. If your condition does not improve after 1 week, or if it worsens, stop using Flonase and consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Flonase Possible Side Effects
Nasal dryness/irritation, nausea, or vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use Flonase, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Flonase do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: eye pain, facial pain, signs of nasal damage (such as pain, severe nosebleeds, a constant whistling sound from your nose), white patches in your nose/back of your throat, pain when swallowing, persistent sore throat.
Rarely, it is possible that corticosteroids given in the nose will be absorbed into the bloodstream. This can lead to side effects of too much corticosteroid. These side effects are more likely in children and people who use Flonase for a long time and in high doses. Tell your doctor right away if any of the following side effects occur: unusual/extreme tiredness, weight loss, headache, swelling ankles/feet, increased thirst/urination, vision problems.
A very serious allergic reaction to Flonase is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Flonase Precautions
Before using Flonase, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Flonase may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Flonase, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: recent nose problems (such as injury, ulcers, surgery), infections (including tuberculosis, herpes eye infection), certain eye problems (glaucoma, cataracts), liver disease.
Avoid contact with people who have infections that may spread to others (such as chickenpox, measles, flu). Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.
Rarely, using corticosteroid medications for a long time can make it more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Therefore, before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using Flonase or have used Flonase within the past few months.
Though it is unlikely, Flonase may slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. The effect on final adult height is unknown. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked.
During pregnancy, Flonase should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if Flonase passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Flonase Possible Intercations
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with Flonase include: HIV protease inhibitors (such as lopinavir, ritonavir).