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Flonase
Flonase
(Fluticasone) is a nasal corticosteroid that works directly on nasal tissue to
reduce swelling and inflammation. The medication is used to treat itching, runny
nose, postnasal drip, nasal congestion and sneezing in people with a history of
rhinitis.
How to Take Flonase
To get the most benefit from Flonase, make sure you understand how to use
the nasal spray properly. Do not use more than two sprays in each nostril daily.
It may take a few days before the benefits of Flonase are noticed. If no
improvement occurs after several days, notify your doctor.
Side Effects
Common side effects associated with the use of Flonase include nose
bleeding, blood in nasal mucus, or nasal burning or irritation. Less common or
rare occurrences are headache, sneezing, runny nose, nasal dryness, congestion,
or stomach upset. If these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your
doctor.
Long-term use of nasal steroids may cause fungal infections of the nose or
throat. Inform your doctor if you develop an infection. The medication may be
discontinued while the infection is treated. Very unlikely to occur but report:
vision problems, headache, increased thirst or urination, unusual weakness,
weight loss, nausea, dizziness.
In the very unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek
immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash,
itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not
listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Drug Interactions
Before using Flonase, tell your doctor of all other prescription or
nonprescription medicines you use, especially other nasal products (such as cold
products), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), and antibiotics. Do not start or
stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Precautions
Tell your doctor your medical history, including any allergies, eye
problems (glaucoma), infections, recent nasal surgery or nasal sores you might
have. If you are prescribed doses higher than those usually recommended, avoid
exposure to chickenpox or measles. If you do become exposed, notify your doctor
promptly.
Though very unlikely, it is possible this medication will be absorbed into your
bloodstream. This may have undesirable consequences that may require additional
corticosteroid treatment. This is especially true for children and for those who
have used this for an extended period if they also have serious medical problems
such as infections, injuries or surgeries. This precaution applies for up to one
year after stopping use of this drug. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more
details.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this drug is
excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. Caution is
advised in children as this drug may affect growth patterns.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Flonase, do not double the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Keep Flonase and all medications out of the reach of children.
This information regarding Flonase is intended to supplement, not substitute the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of
Flonase is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using
Flonase. |