Flonase Nasal Spray – Information, Uses, Side Effects and Dosage

Drug Trade Name: Flonase Allergy Relief, Xhance, Flovent HFA

Category: Corticosteroid

Generic Name: fluticasone propionate

Introduction and quick information:

Flonase Allergy Relief is a nasal spray that contains a corticosteroid, fluticasone as an active ingredient. It helps the body in preventing the release of substances that cause inflammation.  This medicine is meant for use in adults and children at least 4 years old and can be obtained from over-the-counter, without prescription. 

Is It Approved by U.S. FDA?     

Fluticasone propionate was approved by the U.S. FDA on October 19, 1994.  The application for the approval of Flonase is filed by GlaxoSmithKline.

Usage and Benefits of Flonase Allergy Relief :

Flonase belongs to the class of corticosteroids that are beneficial for following purposes:

• Prevention of inflammation
• Treatment of allergic symptoms, both seasonal and perennial
• Treatment of non-allergic symptoms
• Prevent asthma attack

Flonase Allergy Relief Side Effects:

Some of the side effects associated with Flonase Allergy Relief use are:

• White patches in mouth and throat
• Blood in the nasal discharge
• Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
• Runny, sore or stuffy nose
• Dizziness
• Muscle ache
• Diarrhea
• Sore throat
• Headache

Before using the medicine, healthcare provider’s advice is necessary, in case you have:

• Liver disease
• Glaucoma and cataracts
• Recent injury or surgery on your nose
• Sores or ulcers inside your nose
• Tuberculosis or any other infection or illness
• Herpes simplex virus in your eyes.

Inform your doctor and seek medical attention if you face any side-effect.

General recommended dosages of Flonase Allergy Relief:

Dosage without doctor’s prescription can be dangerous and may even cause adverse effects. Flonase Allergy Relief comes in the form of an inhalational spray that is meant for oral inhalation only. It can be prescribed for once or twice a day therapy. Avoid spraying it in your eyes as it may cause irritation in eyes and might even result in temporary or permanent blindness.   

In Case I Miss the Dose?

If you miss a dose, spray it at any time before next scheduled spray or skip it altogether. Do not spray an extra dose to make up for the missed dose.  

In Case I Take Overdose?

An overdose of Flonase calls for an immediate medical help if symptoms like fainting, appetite loss, depression and skin darkening are observed. 

Drug Interactions of Flonase Allergy Relief: 

Some of the drugs that react with the active ingredient of Flonase Allergy Relief  are as follows:

• cetirizine hydrochloride (Zyrtec)
• aspirin (Aspirin)
• ibuprofen (Advil)
• omeprazole (Omeprazole)
• metformin hydrochloride (Fortamet)
• montelukast sodium (Singulair)
• simvastatin (Simvastatin)

As it is nearly impossible to address all the drugs here, we recommend you to inform your doctor about other medications you are taking before starting Flonase Allerggy Relief therapy.

Lifestyle and Food Habits You Must Follow When on Flonase Allergy Relief:

As far as lifestyle is concerned, you must keep the following things in mind while on Flonase Allergy Relief therapy :

• Avoid its use if you are suffering from cold
• Do not use it if you are allergic to fluticasone
• Avoid it if you are already on oral steroids
• Use it as instructed by doctor or pharmacist 
• Avoid taking grapefruit juice, if possible

How Safe Is Flonase Allergy Relief for Pregnant Women or Nursing Mothers?

Flonase Allergy Relief has not been assigned any category in the placed in the U.S. FDA pregnancy category. Pregnant women with Asthma should be monitored closely in order to keep asthma under check. Neonates exposed to glucocorticoids are at a higher risk of developing hypoadrenalism and should be carefully monitored.  

Inhaled therapeutic doses of fluticasone in Flonase Allergy Relief are too less in the bloodstream. If it gets secreted in the breastmilk, that concentration will be far too less to cause any harm to the breastfed infant.

Complications and Conditions Possible Due to Prolonged Use of Flonase Allergy Relief:

Prolonged use of corticosteroids is injurious to health as it can suppress your immune system. It can also cause serious adverse effects on your eyes and result in dryness, blurred vision, irritation glaucoma, cataracts, increased intraocular pressure and conjunctivitis. Sometimes, allergic reactions are also observed displaying symptoms of itching, hives, swelling, angioedema, and anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical help if you observe any of the above-mentioned symptoms. In some cases, it can also interfere with the functioning of the adrenal gland. 

Availability of Flonase Allergy Relief:

Flonase Allergy Relief is available over-the-counter across all the pharmacies in the U.S.