Flixonase

What is Flixonase

Flixonase is a nasal spray which is intended to treat allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory condition within the nose which is brought on by allergens such as dust, mould, animal dander or pollen.

Commonly known as hay fever, this condition can cause a number of symptoms, including:

• Coughing
• Itchy eyes
• Itchy nose
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose
• Watery eyes

Depending on the sensitivity of the individual, these symptoms can come on quickly after exposure to an allergen. Knowing and avoiding allergens which trigger your symptoms is important to your treatment, however avoiding your allergen may be challenging or impossible.

Flixonase can prevent the symptoms from arising, even during exposure to allergens. When taken daily, it is an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis.

How does Flixonase work?

Flixonase contains a corticosteroid called fluticasone propionate. When administered nasally, it prevents and treats inflammation in the nose brought on by seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, or perennial allergies, such as animal fur.

When an allergen enters the body through the nose, the cells in the nose lining release inflammatory chemicals to help fight the invasion. Fluticasone blocks the cells’ ability to release these chemicals, preventing allergic rhinitis from occurring.

It’s important to understand that Flixonase will not release rhinitis symptoms immediately.

How to take Flixonase?

For adults, 2 sprays should be administered into each nostril daily. This dosage can be reduced to one spray into each nostril daily if your symptoms are under control. Your doctor will determine the most suitable dose for you. You should take Flixonase at the same time every day for it to be most effective.

Before you can use your Flixonase nasal spray for the first time, you will need to prime it.

To prime your nasal spray:

1. Hold the bottle away from you.
2. Place your index finger and middle finger on the collar of the spray, with your thumb providing support from the bottom of the bottle.
3. Holding the bottle upright, press the pump down a few times until a fine mist is produced.
4. This fine mist indicates that the spray is ready to be used.

To use your spray:

1. Shake the bottle and remove the cap
2. Gently blow your nose
3. Press your finger against one nostril and put the nozzle of the spray bottle into the other nostril.
4. Holding the bottle upright, start to breathe in through your nose.
5. While breathing, depress the collar with your fingers. This will dispense a fine mist into your nose.
6. Gently breathe out through your mouth.
7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 for your other nostril.
8. Clean the nozzle of your spray with a clean tissue or handkerchief.
9. Replace the cap and store your spray in a safe place away from children.

Further information about how to use your Flixonase nasal spray, including instructions on cleaning the nozzle, can be found in the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine.

You can also view the patient information leaflet for Flixonase nasal spray online.

Always take Flixonase as prescribed by the doctor.

Do not change your dosage without your doctor’s consent.

Flixonase side effects and cautions

All medicines carry the risk of side effects, though not everybody gets them. It is important to familiarise yourself with the risks associated with the treatment you are taking for your safety.

Always read the patient information leaflet before taking your medicine.

Very common side effects of Flixonase:

• Nosebleeds

Common side effects of Flixonase:

• A dry or painful nose or throat
• Headaches
• Unpleasant smell
• Unpleasant taste

This is not a complete list of side effects associated with Flixonase. A full list of side effects can be found within the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine.

Allergies

Do not take Flixonase if you are allergic to any of the ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

If you experience the symptoms of an allergic reaction, stop taking Flixonase and seek urgent medical attention. Allergic reactions to Flixonase are rare but can be very serious. Inform your doctor if you have an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:

• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Skin rashes or redness
• Suddenly feeling weak or light-headed
• Swelling around the face, mouth or tongue
• Wheezing

Flixonase contains an ingredient, called benzalkonium, which may cause breathing problems (bronchospasm).

Will Flixonase interact with any of the medicines I am currently taking?

Please inform our doctor of all the medicines you take during your consultation. This includes prescription, over the counter and herbal treatments.

Frequently asked questions about Flixonase

Can I take Flixonase while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Speak to your doctor before taking Flixonase if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby.

Can I drink alcohol while using Flixonase?

While alcohol has no known influence on Flixonase or allergic rhinitis, consuming alcohol can cause non-allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Will Flixonase affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

It is unlikely that Flixonase will affect your ability to drive or operate tools or machinery.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Flixonase?

If you miss a dose of Flixonase, forget the dose and take your next dose as you normally would. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.

What should I do if I take too much Flixonase?

If you take more Flixonase than you should, speak to your doctor. Using more Flixonase than advised by the doctor can make your symptoms worse or increase your risk of side effects.