FLUTICASONE (floo TIK a sone) treats allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny or stuffy nose. It may also be used to treat nasal polyps. It works by decreasing inflammation in your nose, making it easier to breathe. It belongs to a group of medications called nasal steroids.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Eye disease, vision problems
Infection, such as tuberculosis, herpes, fungal infection
Recent surgery on nose or sinuses
Taking a corticosteroid by mouth
An unusual or allergic reaction to fluticasone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is for use in the nose. Take it as directed on the prescription or product label. Do not use more often than directed. Do not share this medication with anyone else. Make sure that you are using your nasal spray correctly. Ask your care team if you have any questions.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed to children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, telithromycin
Certain medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole
Conivaptan
Nefazodone
Some medications for HIV
Vaccines
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Crusting or sores in the nose
Frequent or severe nosebleeds
Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness, fatigue, dizziness
Thrush—white patches in the nose or mouth
Whistling through one or both nostrils that does not go away
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Change in sense of smell
Change in taste
Cough
Headache
Irritation inside the nose or throat
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your care team if you are around anyone with measles, chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.