Fluticasone Nasal Spray

What is this medication for?

Fluticasone is a steroid that reduces inflammation in the nasal passages. It is used to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis such as runny nose, blocked nose, sneezing, and nasal itching.  

How should I take or use this medication?

Priming: The device must be primed before first use. Re-prime if the cap is left off.
	1. Shake the nasal spray vigorously for about 10 seconds with the cap on to liquefy the suspension.
	2. Remove the cap and hold the nasal spray upright, pointing the nozzle away from you.
	3. Press the button firmly all the way in approximately 6 times until a fine mist is seen. The nasal spray is now ready for use. If you have difficulty pressing the button with your thumb, you can use the index, middle and fourth fingers together. Replace the cap after use to keep the nozzle clean.

Administering the medication
	1. Shake the nasal spray vigorously to liquefy the suspension and remove the cap.
	2. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils.
	3. Covering one nostril with your finger, insert the nozzle comfortably into the other nostril.
	4. Point the nozzle towards the outside of your nose, away from the centre ridge of your nose. This prevents nosebleed or discomfort.
	5. Tilt your head forward slightly. This allows the medication to stay in the nose, rather than drain down the back of your throat.
	6. Press the button once firmly all the way in.
	7. As you press the button, take a quick, deep breath in through your nose simultaneously.
	8. Remove the nozzle from your nose and breathe out through your mouth. 9. Repeat steps 3-8 for the other nostril.  10. If 2 doses are prescribed for each nostril, repeat the cycle starting from the first nostril.
	11. Wipe the nozzle and inside of the cap with a clean and dry tissue.   12. Replace the cap after use.   13. Gargle and spit out to remove any remaining steroid that may fall to the back of your throat.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies 

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

• Nosebleed (more common with longer-term use more than 6 weeks)
• Headache
• Nose discomfort or irritation (may be reduced by spraying away from the centre of the nose)
• Throat irritation or hoarseness of voice (may be reduced by gargling and spitting out after use)

Most side effects are temporary and will improve with time if they occur. Speak with your healthcare professionals if any of them continues, worsens, or affects your daily life. 

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

You can also find out about drug allergies by watching these videos:

For videos in 中文, Melayu and தமிழ், click here.

Other rare but serious side effects include:  

• Hole in the wall between the nostrils
• Increased eye pressure or cataracts (eye pain or vision changes) 

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.

When should i throw away this medication? 

Discard this medication when it has delivered 120 doses, or 2 months after opening.

What else should I know about this medication? 

• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional. It may take several days of treatment to achieve full benefit.
• This medication is for use in the nose only. If it gets into your eyes, rinse your eyes with water.
• Do not push any sharp objects into the nozzle of the nasal spray.