Fluticasone propionate explained: some information you need to know
Fluticasone propionate is a type of asthma medication typically prescribed for inflammation, allergies, and various nasal conditions.[1]
This article from the medical review team at Chemist2U aims to provide some information on its applications, potential side effects, interactions with other medications, and more. With some important information on fluticasone propionate, you’ll be able to discuss your options with your doctor.
In this article
How does fluticasone propionate work?
Fluticasone propionate is a type of medication known as a corticosteroid, which plays a role in managing inflammatory conditions within the body.[2] It is typically sold under the brand name Flixotide.[3] By constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling, it addresses inflammation at its earliest stages.
Additionally, fluticasone propionate may help ease breathing in individuals dealing with conditions that compromise their airways by indirectly assisting in the relaxation of the muscles surrounding the airways and curtailing mucous production.[4]
How do you take fluticasone propionate?
Fluticasone propionate may be administered orally, nasally, or topically, depending on your condition and your doctor’s prescription. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor, including the recommended fluticasone propionate dosage, and always read the leaflet included with your medication.
How you take fluticasone propionate will differ based on the formulation and type of medication. For example, the nasal spray formulation is typically used to manage allergy symptoms, hay fever, non-allergic rhinitis, and nasal polyps. To use it, take note of the following:[5]
- Preparation: Shake the bottle gently and prime the pump if it’s your first use or if the spray has not been used for a while.
- Usage: Blow your nose to clear your nostrils. Close one nostril, insert the spray tip into the other, inhale gently while spraying, then exhale through your mouth. Clean the spray tip after use.
- Consistency: Use as prescribed for best results. Fluticasone manages symptoms over time and is not an immediate cure.
Who can take fluticasone propionate?
While nasal spray versions are generally for adults over 18, nasal drops can typically be used by those aged 16 and older.[6] Some formulations, such as Flixotide Junior (fluticasone propionate), may also be used by children over four years old under the guidance of a doctor.[7]
However, fluticasone propionate is not recommended for individuals allergic to fluticasone, those on or recently off steroid medication, anyone who has had nasal surgery or infection recently, or pregnant women without prior medical consultation.
Always consult a doctor before starting fluticasone propionate to ensure it’s appropriate for your situation.
Side effects of fluticasone propionate
Like most medications, fluticasone propionate may cause side effects ranging from common to serious, although not everyone will experience them. Understanding these can help in recognising when to seek medical advice:
Some common side effects include:[8]
- Unpleasant taste or smell
- Nose dryness or soreness, which may lead to nosebleeds
- Throat irritation or hoarseness
- Headaches
Serious side effects include the following:[9]
- Breathing difficulties
- Nasal damage or sores
- Vision changes, which could signal glaucoma or cataracts
If common symptoms persist or cause significant discomfort, consulting a doctor is highly advisable. However, if any serious side effects occur, call your doctor immediately.
Fluticasone propionate and other medications
When starting fluticasone propionate, it’s essential to disclose all current prescription medications to your doctor, as well as any over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal treatments.
Drug interactions may alter your treatment’s effectiveness or cause unexpected side effects, so it’s crucial to be open about them.
Medicines you should not use with fluticasone propionate
When using fluticasone propionate, awareness of its potential interactions with other medications is critical.
Certain medications, when taken alongside fluticasone propionate, can interfere with its action or elevate the risk of adverse effects. These include:
- Corticosteroid Medications: This category spans a wide range, including eczema creams, asthma inhalers, oral steroids, injections, and other corticosteroid-based nasal sprays and eye/nose drops. Concurrent use can amplify corticosteroid effects in the body, leading to an increased likelihood of systemic side effects.[10]
- Ritonavir: This HIV treatment can significantly boost the levels of corticosteroids in your body when combined with fluticasone propionate, thus heightening the risk of experiencing corticosteroid-associated side effects.[11]
- Ketoconazole: As an antifungal agent, ketoconazole can raise fluticasone levels in the body, potentially intensifying side effects.[12]
How to order fluticasone propionate through Chemist2U
At Chemist2U, we strive to make the process of obtaining your medications as convenient as possible, whether you have a prescription for asthma medication, allergy relief medication, or corticosteroid treatments.
To begin, simply order delivery using this website or download the Chemist2U mobile app. Here, we offer the option for you to securely upload your eScript. This transfers your prescription details to a local pharmacist, who will carefully prepare your medications before a dedicated courier delivers them to your door.
We understand that your needs may extend beyond prescription medications. That’s why we also offer a variety of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy goods, which you can conveniently add to your order.
Home delivery of prescription and over-the-counter medicines is just the beginning of how Chemist2U makes medication easy. We make it easy to keep all your e-prescriptions in one place so you are always on top of your medication. We’ll even send you reminders when it’s time to reorder or get a new script.
Make your medication easy and have your medication delivered today with Chemist2U.
References
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15932376/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9563368/
[3] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,29811000168100/flixotide
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542161/
[5] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695002.html
[6] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fluticasone-nasal-spray-and-drops/who-can-and-cannot-use-fluticasone-nasal-spray-and-drops/
[7] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,40261000168108/flixotide-junior-accuhaler
[8] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fluticasone-nasal-spray-and-drops/side-effects-of-fluticasone-nasal-spray-and-drops/
[9] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/fluticasone-nasal-spray-and-drops/side-effects-of-fluticasone-nasal-spray-and-drops/
[10] http://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/95783775-2751-49f0-a1d6-a24ff2f79050.pdf
[11] https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2017-CMI-01679-1
[12] https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2017-CMI-01679-1
