Flonase

 Drug Name

Flonase is a corticosteroid that is used to treat the symptoms of nasal allergy like congestion, sneezing, itching, and runny nose.

How it is taken

Before using it for the first time, shake the container and replace the existing screw cap with the pump unit. Now, prime the delivery system with a few sprays until a fine mist appears.

The bottle is now functional to use. If you haven’t used it for the last 2 to 3 days, then you may need to reprime the pump with a few sprays.

You may clear your nose before using Flonase by blowing it gently.

Place one finger against the side of your nose to close one nostril. Tilt your head forward slightly and insert the nozzle of the spray pump into your other nostril and press firmly to release the spray into it.

After each spray sniff in deeply through your nostril and breathe out through the mouth. Tilt your head backwards after the spray to let it spread on the back of your nose.

Your doctor will be the best person to guide you regarding a suitable dosage for you.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Flonase is a corticosteroid that reduces the inflammation in the nasal passageway and cures symptoms like sneezing, stuffy nose etc which are caused by irritants in the air.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Flonase, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it between between 39 and 86 degrees F (4 and 30 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

 Warnings/Precautions

You must maintain caution if you are switching from an oral steroid (eg, prednisone) to Flonase. It may take several months for your body to make enough natural steroids to handle events that cause physical stress.

Such events like injury, surgery, infection, loss of blood electrolytes, or a sudden asthma attack may be severe and sometimes fatal.

Contact your doctor right away if any of these events occur.

You may need to take an oral steroid (eg, prednisone) again to recover fully. Carry a card at all times that says you may need an oral steroid (eg, prednisone) if any of these events occur.

Ensure that your doctor or dentist knows that you take Flonase before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

Flonase can weaken the immune system and if you have not had chickenpox or measles, avoid contact with anyone who does.

You should be careful to avoid spraying in the eyes.

Flonase should not be used in children younger than 4 years old as safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

Corticosteroids may affect growth rate in children and teenagers in some cases. They may need regular growth checks while they use Flonase.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then do not use Flonase without discussing about the risks involved with the doctor.

It is unknown whether Flonase is found in breast milk. So avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are aches and pains, asthma symptoms, bronchitis, changes in or loss of senses of smell and taste, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, fever, flu-like symptoms (headache, tiredness, muscle aches, fever), infection of the nose and throat, nasal irritation or burning, nausea, nosebleed, runny nose, sore throat, stomach pain, vomiting.

Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), cataracts, growth suppression in children, hoarseness, increased pressure in the eye, infection or pain in the nose or throat, nasal septum perforation, repeated nosebleeds, voice changes.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.