Some important information about Flixotide (fluticasone propionate)
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) is typically prescribed for managing certain respiratory conditions. It may help diminish inflammation within the airways, address symptoms such as wheezing and breathlessness, and lead to more comfortable breathing.
This article from Chemist2U explains how it works and provides some other important information that you can discuss with your doctor for asthma management.
In this article
How does Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) work?
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and is typically prescribed as an asthma medication.[1] A doctor may prescribe it for various severities of asthma.
These inhalers are designed to provide respiratory relief by reducing inflammation in the airways.
This corticosteroid inhaler works by activating specific genes that make anti-inflammatory proteins and block inflammatory pathways. This process helps decrease inflammation and the immune response in the airways.[2]
Clinical studies have demonstrated that fluticasone propionate can lead to improvements in both objective measures (lung function) and subjective outcomes (symptoms, beta-agonist use, and quality of life).[3]
Furthermore, extensive data suggests that fluticasone propionate does not have clinically meaningful effects on bone mass or growth velocity in children, making it one possible treatment option for children.[4]
How do you take Flixotide (fluticasone propionate)?
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) is administered through oral inhalation, either as an aerosol or as a powder. This medication is typically inhaled twice daily, though it may depend on your prescription.[5]
It’s crucial to use fluticasone at the same times each day, strictly adhering to the prescribed dosage without deviation. Always follow the instructions provided with your prescription, and consult your doctor for any clarification on usage.
For additional guidance on the usage of this breathing aid, including preparation and proper inhalation technique, refer to the instructions that accompany the medication.
Who can take Flixotide (fluticasone propionate)?
The medication is available in various forms, including the accuhaler and inhaler forms, each offering different strengths to accommodate the severity of the asthma condition.
For adults and children over 16 years old, the dosage ranges from 100 to 1000 micrograms, used twice daily, depending on the asthma’s severity.
For children aged four years and older, dosages range from 50 to 100 micrograms used twice daily.[6] A doctor may also consider Flixotide Junior (fluticasone propionate) for this age group.
It’s essential to adjust the dosage of fluticasone propionate according to individual response, and therapy should be regularly reviewed to potentially reduce the dose to the lowest effective amount to maintain asthma control.
Special precautions should be taken when transitioning patients from oral steroid therapy to inhaled fluticasone propionate, as prolonged treatment with high doses of inhaled corticosteroids can result in adrenal suppression and acute adrenal crisis, particularly in children taking higher than licenced doses.
Side effects of Flixotide (fluticasone propionate)
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) is associated with several side effects, which can vary in severity. Common side effects include oral thrush (mouth thrush), dry or sore throat, and hoarse voice.[7]
To mitigate the risk of oral thrush, it is advised to rinse the mouth with water or brush the teeth after using the inhaler. Using a spacer with the inhaler can also help reduce the risk of a dry or sore throat and a hoarse voice.
Serious side effects are less common but may include a round face, weight gain in the upper back or belly, symptoms of infections, adrenal gland problems, changes in eyesight indicating possible glaucoma or cataracts, and serious allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.[8]
In some cases, fluticasone may cause metabolic abnormalities and psychiatric disturbances and may increase the risk of severe asthma when used alone without combination therapy with drugs like salmeterol.[9]
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) and other medications
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) can interact with several other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking or have recently taken.
Key interactions include antifungals like itraconazole, ketoconazole, and voriconazole; antibiotics such as clarithromycin; conivaptan; HIV protease inhibitors; certain medications for seizures; other oral steroids like dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and prednisone; and telithromycin.[10]
Your doctor may need to adjust your doses or closely monitor you for side effects when using fluticasone. Always consult with your doctor for advice on your asthma control plan that’s specific to your health situation.
Medicines you should not use with Flixotide (fluticasone propionate)
When using Flixotide (fluticasone propionate), it’s crucial to avoid certain medicines that can interact negatively, such as some types of antifungals (such as ketoconazole) and certain HIV protease inhibitors.
These medications can increase the levels of fluticasone in the body, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects. Always consult your doctor before starting any new medication alongside Flixotide (fluticasone propionate).[11]
How to order Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) through Chemist2U
Chemist2U is all about easing your medication routine with our convenient delivery service right to your doorstep. Begin by either downloading our app or using our website. Here’s a quick guide:
- Uploading prescriptions online is easy. Simply submit your eScript wherever you are.
- Add over-the-counter medications or general pharmacy products. Choose from a vast selection of over-the-counter medicines and general pharmacy products, just like the options you’d find at a physical pharmacy.
- Your order is professionally handled. A trusted pharmacist from one of our partner pharmacies in your area will meticulously prepare your order.
- Delivery to your door. Serving a number of metros and major regional areas across Australia, we ensure that orders placed prior to our daily cutoff are delivered the same day, directly from the chemist to you. Note: A minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow 5 to 7 business days.
For any assistance with your order, reach out to our customer support team.
At Chemist2U, we make your access to medications as easy as possible. Let us deliver your medications today.
References
[1] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/1c37f249-186a-4645-854e-a53300fef371.pdf
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542161/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11249490/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11249490/
[5] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601056.html
[6] https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2010-PI-05259-3&d=20240315172310101
[7] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fluticasone-inhalers/side-effects-of-inhaled-fluticasone/
[8] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fluticasone-inhalers/side-effects-of-inhaled-fluticasone/
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542161/
[10] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601056.html
[11] https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/getFile.cfm?setid=99249b31-bf0a-464f-8335-845279350dbe&type=pdf