Fluticasone

What is Fluticasone?

Fluticasone is a steroid nasal spray that can treat the symptoms of nasal infections. It reduces inflammation in the nose caused by conditions like sinusitis. Although swelling is a natural immune response to an infection, it can make it difficult to breathe when it occurs in your airways.

Nose infections are often caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Most infections will resolve on their own, but if the infection is severe, you might need antibiotics.

Fluticasone is typically used to manage the symptoms. It can’t treat the infection, but it can alleviate symptoms like nasal congestion.

How does Fluticasone work?

Fluticasone is a potent steroid with anti-inflammatory properties. It reduces swelling in the nose caused by infections. This relieves symptoms like stuffy nose, runny nose, and congestion.^[1]

Fluticasone isn’t a treatment for infections, but it can relieve your symptoms.

What doses of Fluticasone are there?

Fluticasone nasal spray is only available in one dose of 0.05% or 50mg of fluticasone propionate. The typical dosage is two sprays in each nostril once every day.

How to use Fluticasone

If you’re using Fluticasone for the first time, press the pump multiple times until you get a fine mist. 

To use Fluticasone: 

1. Remove the cap from the bottle and shake it.
2. Gently blow your nose. 
3. Hold the bottle in a comfortable position. 
4. Close one nostril by placing your finger on the outside of the nose. 
5. Place the nozzle at the tip of the open nostril. 
6. While breathing in, press down twice to release the mist into your nose. 
7. Remove the bottle from your nose and breathe out through your mouth. 
8. Repeat steps 4-7 for the other nostril. 
9. Once done, wipe the nozzle clean and place the cap back on. 

You’ll typically spray Fluticasone twice in each nostril once a day. When your symptoms improve, you can reduce it to one spray in each nostril.

Fluticasone only treats the symptoms, not the actual infection. Usually nasal infections go away on their own, but if your symptoms persist you might need antibiotics.

When will I feel better with Fluticasone?

It might take a couple of days for your symptoms to improve with Fluticasone. You should notice less nasal congestion and find it easier to breathe. Some individuals might find relief within a few hours, but most likely it will take two to three days. If your symptoms don’t improve within a week, let your doctor know.

I made a mistake when using Fluticasone, now what?

If you forget to take a dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your normal dosing schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.

If you accidentally use too many sprays, it’s unlikely to cause any side effects. But if you’re worried, contact your doctor for medical advice.