Fluticasone inhalation aerosol
What does fluticasone inhalation aerosol do?
FLUTICASONE inhalation (Flovent(R)) is a corticosteroid for treating respiratory problems due to asthma. Fluticasone is intended for regular use. It will not cure your condition, but can help to reduce asthmatic symptoms. Fluticasone will not relieve an acute asthma attack. Fluticasone can be used along with other inhaled or oral asthma medications.
What should my health care professional know before I use fluticasone?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an asthmatic attack
• infection, especially fungal infection
• an unusual or allergic reaction to fluticasone, other corticosteroids, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
If you are also using a bronchodilator aerosol (such as albuterol) use that inhaler first. Wait a few minutes before using fluticasone.
Fluticasone is for inhalation through the mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Shake the canister well before use. Breathe out completely. Place the mouthpiece between the open lips, past the teeth. Close lips firmly around the mouthpiece, or you may place the mouthpiece close to your mouth. Press down on the canister one time while breathing in deeply and slowly. Remove the canister from the mouth. Hold your breath for a count of 10 and then breathe out slowly. If you are using more than one dose, wait a minute between inhalations, shake the inhaler again and repeat the above procedure. Gargle or rinse your mouth with water after the last dose; do not swallow the water. Clean the inhaler daily. Remove the canister and cap from the inhaler. Rinse the inhaler with warm water and dry thoroughly. Do not use more than the recommended dose.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. Children of ages 4 and up have used fluticasone inhalations for the treatment of asthma.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule, spacing doses evenly. Do not use double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with fluticasone?
• ketoconazole
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using fluticasone?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• abdominal pain
• chest pain
• coughing, hoarseness
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• fever or chills
• skin rash and itching (hives)
• sore mouth, with white curd-like patches in the mouth or throat
• troubled breathing or wheezing
• unusual swelling
• unusual tiredness or weakness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• coughing, hoarseness, throat irritation
• dry mouth
• flushing
• loss of taste, or unpleasant taste