Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology
Fluticasone propionate is part of a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, or steroids, are synthetic drugs that are modeled after the naturally occurring hormone cortisol, which is produced in the adrenal glands located above the kidneys. Corticosteroids are used to reduce inflammation, pain, itchiness, and other effects mediated by the immune system response.
Each corticosteroid is formulated to be used in a specific dosage form, either parenteral, oral, topically, or otherwise. Fluticasone as propionate is available as an inhalational powder, nebule of inhalation, nasal spray, drops, and topical cream or ointment.
Fluticasone propionate is mainly indicated to treat the following conditions:
Fluticasone as propionate is available as an inhalational powder, nasal spray, drops, and topical cream or ointment.
Inhalational dosage forms require an inhaler or nebulizer for administration. Follow the instructions carefully to administer each dose. Take a deep breath and hold it for a few seconds to allow the medication to enter the airways. Swish and spit with clean water after using a dry powder inhaler to get rid of residual powder and prevent the development of opportunistic infections of the mouth.
Nasal spray and drops should only be administered through the nose. Clean and cover the tip of the nozzle after each use.
The topical dosage forms should be applied as a thin layer on the affected areas of skin. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application.
Never share any corticosteroids, inhalers, etc. with others, even if they have the same symptoms or are prescribed the same medication.
This drug should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Do not store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Always check the label before using this product. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.
Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.
Corticosteroids, including fluticasone, are associated with an increased risk of infection, bone demineralization, weight gain, water retention, and various other effects. This risk is further increased in elderly patients, young patients, immunocompromised patients, and those undergoing chronic treatment with steroids.
Because fluticasone as propionate is not generally used as a systemic dosage dorm, these effects are less likely and less severe. For orally administered doses, the mouth should be rinsed with water by using a swish, gargle, and spit method. This is to prevent the occurrence of oral candidiasis or thrush.
Never stop taking corticosteroids suddenly. If side effects are being experienced or you have completed your therapy, your doses must be tapered gradually until it is safe to stop taking corticosteroids. Abruptly stopping the use of steroids can result in adrenal insufficiency, which is potentially life-threatening.
Some groups of people with conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypothyroidism, myopathy, glaucoma, and myasthenia gravis may experience an exacerbation of symptoms after using corticosteroids.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:
This drug is a pregnancy category C drug. There is insufficient evidence from human studies that shows it can cause fetal harm when taken during pregnancy. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.
This drug may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.
All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are route and dose-related and will likely resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.
Potential side effects while using this drug include:
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these serious, potentially fatal drug reactions:
You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
This drug may interact with other medications. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and inform your doctor and pharmacist.
Known drugs and their interactions with fluticasone propionate include:
If you experience an adverse drug interaction, do not stop taking this drug. Inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Your dose may need to be adjusted, substituted with another drug, or discontinue using the drug.
This medication can be taken with or without meals. This medication does not have any significant interaction with alcohol.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.
This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:
Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding specific health conditions.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist before using fluticasone propionate.
As asthma prophylaxis
For allergic rhinitis
For nasal polyps
For corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses
As asthma prophylaxis
For allergic rhinitis
For nasal polyps
For atopic dermatitis that is unresponsive to lower potency corticosteroids
This drug is available in the following brands, dosage forms, and strengths:
Inhalants
Topicals
Nasal sprays and drops
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.
If you miss a dose of this drug, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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