Fluticasone
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Corticosteroid
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Fluticasone is used to treat asthma, which is a condition causing breathing difficulties, and allergic rhinitis, which is inflammation of the nasal passages leading to symptoms like sneezing and congestion. It helps manage these conditions by reducing inflammation and improving breathing.
Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation, which is the body's response to injury or irritation, in the airways or nasal passages. It blocks substances that cause inflammation, helping to decrease swelling and irritation, which improves breathing and reduces symptoms of asthma and allergies.
Fluticasone is usually taken as an inhaler for asthma, with adults typically using 100 to 500 micrograms twice daily. For allergic rhinitis, it is used as a nasal spray, with one or two sprays in each nostril once daily. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Common side effects of fluticasone include nasal irritation, which is discomfort in the nose, sore throat, and cough. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor for advice.
Fluticasone can cause thrush, which is a fungal infection in the mouth, and may suppress the immune system, increasing infection risk. It should not be used if you're allergic to it. Always use fluticasone as prescribed and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.
Indications and Purpose
How does fluticasone work?
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways or nasal passages. It works by blocking the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, similar to how a dam controls water flow. This action helps decrease swelling and irritation, improving breathing and reducing symptoms of asthma and allergies. By controlling inflammation, fluticasone helps prevent asthma attacks and manage allergy symptoms, improving overall respiratory health. Always use fluticasone as prescribed by your doctor for the best results.
Is fluticasone effective?
Fluticasone is effective for treating asthma and allergic rhinitis, which is inflammation of the nasal passages. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways or nasal passages, improving breathing and reducing symptoms. Clinical studies show fluticasone significantly improves asthma control and reduces nasal allergy symptoms. It is a well-established treatment for these conditions, providing relief and improving quality of life for many patients. Always use fluticasone as prescribed by your doctor for the best results.
What is fluticasone?
Fluticasone is a corticosteroid medication used to treat asthma and allergic rhinitis, which is inflammation of the nasal passages. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways or nasal passages, improving breathing and reducing symptoms. Fluticasone is available as an inhaler for asthma and a nasal spray for allergies. It is often used as a long-term treatment to manage these conditions and improve quality of life. Always use fluticasone as prescribed by your doctor for the best results.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take fluticasone?
Fluticasone is usually a long-term medication for managing ongoing conditions like asthma or allergies. You'll typically use it daily as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your conditions to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your fluticasone treatment.
How do I dispose of fluticasone?
To dispose of fluticasone, bring unused medicine to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, take it out of its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take fluticasone?
Fluticasone is usually taken as an inhaler or nasal spray. For inhalers, use it once or twice daily, as directed by your doctor. Shake the inhaler well before use. For nasal sprays, use it once daily, typically in the morning. Do not crush or chew the medication. It can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Avoid taking two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for using fluticasone.
How long does it take for fluticasone to start working?
Fluticasone starts working within a few hours, but full effects may take several days to weeks. For asthma, you might notice improved breathing within a few days, but it can take up to two weeks for maximum benefit. For allergic rhinitis, symptom relief may begin within 12 hours, but full effects can take several days. Individual response times can vary. Consistent use as prescribed is important for the best results. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about how fluticasone is working for you.
How should I store fluticasone?
Store fluticasone at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store fluticasone out of children's reach to prevent accidental use. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication. Follow your doctor's instructions for storing fluticasone safely.
What is the usual dose of fluticasone?
The usual dose of fluticasone varies depending on the form and condition being treated. For asthma, adults typically use 100 to 500 micrograms twice daily via inhaler. For allergic rhinitis, one or two sprays in each nostril once daily is common. Dose adjustments may be needed for children or the elderly. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medication and any side effects you experience.
Warnings and Precautions
Can fluticasone be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Fluticasone is generally considered safe to use while breastfeeding. Limited data suggest it doesn't pass into breast milk in significant amounts. However, it's important to monitor your baby for any unusual symptoms. If you're using fluticasone and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice and help ensure your treatment is safe for both you and your baby. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking while breastfeeding.
Can fluticasone be taken safely while pregnant?
The safety of fluticasone during pregnancy isn't fully established. Limited data suggest it may be safe, but it's important to weigh the benefits and risks. Uncontrolled asthma or allergies can harm both mother and baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition. They can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby while using fluticasone.
Can I take fluticasone with other prescription drugs?
Fluticasone can interact with certain medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, like ketoconazole, can increase fluticasone levels, leading to more side effects. Combining fluticasone with other corticosteroids can increase the risk of systemic effects, like weakened immune function. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid interactions. They can adjust your treatment plan to ensure it's safe and effective. Regular monitoring by your doctor is important to manage any potential interactions.
Does fluticasone have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of fluticasone include nasal irritation, sore throat, and cough. These effects are usually mild. Serious side effects, like vision changes or severe allergic reactions, are rare but require immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms while using fluticasone, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication and recommend appropriate action to address any issues.
Does fluticasone have any safety warnings?
Yes, fluticasone has safety warnings. It can cause thrush, which is a fungal infection in the mouth, and may suppress the immune system, increasing infection risk. Long-term use can affect bone density and growth in children. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always use fluticasone as prescribed and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor. Regular check-ups are important to monitor for potential side effects and ensure the medication is working effectively.
Is fluticasone addictive?
Fluticasone is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it. Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation in the airways or nasal passages, and it doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to use more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that fluticasone doesn't carry this risk while managing your health condition.
Is fluticasone safe for the elderly?
Fluticasone is generally safe for the elderly, but they may be more vulnerable to side effects like bone density loss or infections. Regular monitoring by a doctor is important to manage these risks. The elderly should use the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects. Always consult a doctor before starting or adjusting fluticasone treatment to ensure it's safe and effective for older adults. They can provide personalized advice based on individual health needs.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking fluticasone?
It's generally safe to drink alcohol in moderation while using fluticasone. There are no well-established interactions between fluticasone and alcohol. However, excessive alcohol consumption can weaken your immune system and worsen asthma or allergy symptoms. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and monitor your symptoms. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking fluticasone to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation.
Is it safe to exercise while taking fluticasone?
Yes, it's safe to exercise while using fluticasone. This medication helps control asthma and allergy symptoms, which can improve your ability to exercise. However, if you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or wheezing during physical activity, slow down or stop and rest. Always carry your rescue inhaler if you have asthma. Talk with your doctor about your exercise routine and any concerns you have while using fluticasone to ensure your treatment is effective and safe.
Is it safe to stop fluticasone?
Fluticasone is often used for long-term management of conditions like asthma or allergies. Stopping it suddenly can worsen symptoms. If you need to stop, consult your doctor first. They may suggest gradually reducing your dose to prevent symptom flare-ups. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health. Always follow your doctor's advice on how to use or discontinue fluticasone to ensure effective management of your condition.
What are the most common side effects of fluticasone?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of fluticasone include nasal irritation, sore throat, and cough. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice new symptoms after starting fluticasone, they might be unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to fluticasone and provide guidance on managing any side effects.
Who should avoid taking fluticasone?
Fluticasone should not be used if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Caution is needed if you have untreated infections, as fluticasone can suppress the immune system. Always consult your doctor about these concerns. They can help determine if fluticasone is safe for you and provide guidance on managing any potential risks while using this medication.
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