Fluticasone

Drug Information

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on April 2, 2025

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Quick facts

• Brand Name (Inhalation): Armonair, Arnuity Ellipta, Flovent (aerosol), Flovent Diskus (powder)
• Brand Name (Nasal Spray): Flonase, Veramyst
• Generic Name: Fluticasone
• Uses: Asthma, COPD, Allergic Rhinitis, Nasal Polyps
• Drug Class: Corticosteroid (Glucocorticoid)
• Availability: Prescription required for inhalant medication and fluticasone for nasal polyps. Fluticasone nasal sprays for allergies are available OTC
• Generic Status: Yes
• Controlled Substance: No

What is fluticasone?

Fluticasone is a corticosteroid medication. It is primarily used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and allergic rhinitis. Prescription-strength fluticasone nasal spray is also used to treat nasal polyps.

How does fluticasone work?

Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation in the airways and nasal passages, helping to improve breathing and alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, nasal congestion, and sneezing.

What conditions does fluticasone treat?

Fluticasone is used to treat conditions such as:

• Asthma: Including asthma attacks and ongoing management of asthma symptoms.
• Allergic Rhinitis: This includes seasonal or perennial allergies with symptoms like nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose.
• Nasal Polyps: Fluticasone nasal spray can help reduce inflammation and symptoms associated with nasal polyps.

How do I take fluticasone?

Fluticasone is available in different forms for different conditions:

Inhalation Aerosol/Powder: Fluticasone inhalers and powder are used with metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) or dry powder inhalers (DPIs) for respiratory conditions. Both require a prescription.

Nasal Spray: This is used for allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps. Some fluticasone nasal sprays are available over the counter, but prescription-strength nasal spray is used for nasal polyps.

For inhalation:

• Shake the inhaler well before each use.
• Breathe out fully, place the inhaler in your mouth (for inhalation aerosol) or insert the mouthpiece into your mouth and inhale deeply (for inhalation powder).
• Hold your breath for a few seconds before exhaling slowly.
• Rinse your mouth with water after using the inhaler to reduce the risk of throat irritation or oral yeast infections (thrush).

For nasal spray:

• Shake the nasal spray bottle gently before each use.
• Tilt your head slightly forward and insert the nasal spray nozzle into one nostril, aiming slightly away from the center of your nose.
• Spray the medication into your nostril while inhaling gently through your nose.
• Repeat the process for the other nostril if directed by your healthcare provider.

Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule strictly. Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting your healthcare provider.

How long until I start feeling better?

The time it takes to experience improvement with fluticasone can vary depending on the severity of your condition and how well you respond to the medication. In general, you may start to notice a reduction in symptoms within a few days to weeks of starting treatment. However, it's important to continue using fluticasone as prescribed for optimal control of your condition.

Are there any other uses for fluticasone?

While fluticasone is primarily used for respiratory conditions, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe it off-label for other conditions. These include:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): COPD is an umbrella term for a collection of conditions that include chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Discuss any alternative uses of fluticasone with your healthcare provider.

Dosage forms of fluticasone

Fluticasone is available in the following dosage forms:

• Inhalation Aerosol/Powder: For respiratory conditions.
• Nasal Spray: For allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps.

Generic versions of fluticasone are available under various brand names.

Som forms of fluticasone require a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Side Effects and Precautions for Fluticasone

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What are the side effects of fluticasone?

The use of fluticasone, whether in inhalant or nasal spray form, can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of fluticasone use include:

For Inhalant Form:

• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness
• Dry mouth or throat
• Cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Oral thrush

For Nasal Spray Form:

• Nasal irritation or dryness
• Sneezing
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Throat irritation or soreness
• Headache

More severe side effects of fluticasone use can include:

• Allergic reactions: Such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing
• Eye problems: Including glaucoma, cataracts, blurred vision
• Increased risk of infections: Due to the suppression of the immune system
• Adrenal insufficiency: Especially with long-term use or high doses

If you experience any severe side effects while using fluticasone, especially those that indicate an allergic reaction or serious eye problems, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using fluticasone?

Before using fluticasone, it's important to inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with fluticasone.

Tell your provider if you are taking the following medications or supplements:

• Other corticosteroids
• Immunosuppressants
• Antifungal medications
• HIV/AIDS medications
• Beta-blockers
• Herbal supplements like St. John's wort or others

Additionally, mention any medical conditions you have, such as:

• Allergies, especially to corticosteroids
• Eye problems, including glaucoma or cataracts
• Infections, especially tuberculosis or herpes simplex in the eye
• Liver or kidney problems
• Diabetes
• Pregnancy, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Discuss with your healthcare provider any specific instructions or precautions related to your use of fluticasone.

Are there any other special instructions I should follow?

For both inhalant and nasal spray forms of fluticasone:

• Follow the instructions provided with your medication regarding dosage and administration.
• Rinse your mouth with water after using inhalant fluticasone to reduce the risk of throat irritation or oral yeast infections.
• Use nasal spray fluticasone as directed, aiming away from the center of your nose and avoiding contact with your eyes.
• Clean the inhaler or nasal spray device regularly as instructed.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of an overdose of fluticasone, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may include severe throat irritation, worsening of side effects, or signs of adrenal insufficiency. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.

Proper Use & Dosage Information for Fluticasone

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How should fluticasone be used?

Fluticasone is available in the following forms:

• Inhalation aerosol (44mcg, 110mcg, 220mcg per actuation)
• Nasal spray (50mcg per spray)

The typical starting dose of fluticasone varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and administration.

For conditions like asthma or allergic rhinitis, the typical starting doses may be:

• Inhalation aerosol: 88mcg to 440mcg inhaled twice daily.
• Nasal spray: 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril once daily.

Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dose based on your medical history, current medications, and response to treatment.

Fluticasone should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without consulting your provider.

If you have any questions about your dosage or need adjustments, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. If you need immediate medical advice or assistance, consider scheduling an online doctor appointment through a platform like Sesame.

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

If you miss a dose of fluticasone:

• Inhalant Form: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Nasal Spray Form: Use the missed dose when you remember. If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and resume as usual.

Do not double dose to make up for a missed one.

What should I do if I'm feeling better?

Continue using fluticasone as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. Abruptly stopping may lead to a return of symptoms or worsening of your condition. Follow your provider's instructions regarding the duration of treatment.

How should I store fluticasone?

• Store inhalant fluticasone at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Store nasal spray fluticasone at room temperature, avoiding direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Keep both forms tightly closed and out of reach of children.

Follow the storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.