FLUTICASONE (floo TIK a sone) prevents the symptoms of asthma. It works by decreasing inflammation of the airways, making it easier to breathe. It belongs to a group of medications called inhaled steroids. It is often called a controller inhaler. Do not use it to treat a sudden asthma attack.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Eye disease
Immune system problems
Infection, especially a viral infection, such as chickenpox, cold sores, herpes
Injury of mouth or throat
Osteoporosis, weak bones
Receiving steroids, such as dexamethasone or prednisone
Recent surgery
Vision problems
An unusual or allergic reaction to fluticasone, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is inhaled through the mouth. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Make sure not to swallow the water. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use it more often than directed. Keep using it unless your care team tells you to stop.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 4 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, telithromycin
Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
Certain medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole
Nefazodone
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Flu-like symptoms—fever, chills, muscle pain, cough, headache, fatigue
Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness, fatigue, dizziness
Pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet
Sinus pain or pressure around the face or forehead
Thrush—white patches in the mouth
Wheezing or trouble breathing that is worse after use
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Change in taste
Cough
Diarrhea
Headache
Hoarseness
Sore throat
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your them if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
Talk to your care team about how to treat an acute asthma attack or bronchospasm (wheezing). Be sure to always have a short-acting inhaler with you. If you use your short-acting inhaler and your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse, call your care team right away.
You and your care team should develop an Asthma Action Plan that is just for you. Be sure to know what to do if you are in the yellow (asthma is getting worse) or red (medical alert) zones.
This medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your care team for advice if you get a fever, chills, or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.
Using this medication for a long time may weaken your bones. The risk of bone fractures may be increased. Talk to your care team about your bone health.
This medication may slow your child's growth if it is taken for a long time at high doses. Your child's care team will monitor your child's growth.
This medication may cause cataracts or glaucoma, especially with long term use. You should have regular eye exams while taking this medication. Tell your care team if you notice changes in your eyesight.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Keep inhaler away from extreme heat, cold or humidity. Get rid of it 30 days after removing it from the foil pouch, when the dose counter reads "0" or after the expiration date, whichever is first.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
If you cannot return the medication, ask your care team how to get rid of this medication safely.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
