What is Flonase?

Flonase is a drug in the form of a nasal spray. It contains corticosteroid fluticasone. It prevents inflammation in the body.

Uses

It is used to treat nasal problems such as congestion, runny nose or sneezing caused by allergies.

Warnings

Before hand inform your doctor if you have been prescribed any HIV medicine or any antifungal medicine.
If you have an existing nose problem like nose bleeding or a sore in your nose then inform your doctor about it.
Flonase is to be shaken well before each use. Flonase can lower your blood cells which fight germs. So when using Flonase you is highly vulnerable to infections. Avoid being in contact with any person who has infections. If you have been exposed to chicken pox or measles then inform your doctor immediately about it. This type of exposure can be fatal too.
Flonase should not be given to a child younger than 4 years of age. Steroids such as Flonase can affect the growth of children.
Before using Flonase inform your doctor about all recent infections you had or the diseases that you face. You might not be able to take Flonase under a history of certain infections. You can consult with your doctor to know more about these conditions.

How should I use Flonase?

Basic usual dose of Flonase is 2 sprays into a nostril per day. But you might be prescribed a dose other than this. Ask your doctor about your dose and course plan.
Prime the spray pump if you are using the spray for the first time. You should also prime it if you have left it open and not used it for more than 5 days.
Shake the spray well before use. It may take many days before your symptoms get better. Inform your doctor if your symptoms are not improving even after a week of use of this medicine. Your doctor may need to test you on daily basis to check if your nose is not being damaged by its use.
Do not use the same bottle after you have used up 120 sprays even if medicine is left in it.

What happens if I overdose?

Immediate medical attention should be given to the patient who has used too much of this medicine.
An overdose of Flonase does not pose any threat to your life. But being a steroid it may harm your body. You can ask your doctor about the symptoms of an overdose of steroids.

Flonase side effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you are facing any serious side effects. These include:

• Severe nose bleeding;
• Vision problem;
• Fever;
• Body Aches;
• Sore in the nose which is not healing or
• Flu.

Less serious side effects are more likely to take place. These include:

• Headache;
• Minor nose bleeding;
• Menstrual problems;
• Sinus pain;
• Cough or
• Loss in interest of sex.

The patient might face side effects other than those listed here. If any unusual symptom is caused by the use of Flonase then contact your doctor immediately.

Proper storage of Flonase

Flonase is to be stored at room temperature. Room temperature: 68 to 77 Degrees F or 20 to 25o C. It is to be kept in a tightly closed container. Keep Flonase away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Do not place it in bathrooms. Keep Flonase out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information

For more information about Flonase consult your doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms get worse after using this drug then inform this to your doctor.
Flonase is to be used only for the person it is prescribed for. Do not share your medication.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If the patient misses a dose then take the missed dose as soon as possible. If the scheduled next dose is near then skip the missed dose. Continue the rest of the course as usual. Do not take any other medicine to cover up the missed dose.