Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: FLUTICASONE - ORAL AEROSOL INHALER (flew-TICK-uh-sown)
BRAND NAME(S): Flovent
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that works directly in the lungs to make breathing easier by reducing the swelling and inflammation of the airways. This medication must be used regularly to prevent the wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma, bronchitis, or some types of emphysema. This medication does not work immediately. Therefore, it is not used to relieve an acute asthma attack. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (e.g., albuterol, salbutamol) as prescribed.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet which contains instructions for proper use of this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Shake the canister well before using. Follow the instructions for test sprays in the air if you are using a canister for the first time or if you have not used it for a week or more. Avoid spraying the medication in your eyes. A fine mist is a sign that the inhaler is properly working. Inhale this medication by mouth usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is recommended that you use a spacer device with this medication. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Follow the detailed instructions for proper use of the inhaler and cleaning of the mouthpiece. If two inhalations/puffs are prescribed, wait at least one minute between them. If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait several minutes between the use of each medication, and use this drug (the corticosteroid) last. To prevent dry mouth, hoarseness and oral yeast infections from developing, gargle and rinse your mouth after each use. Do not swallow the rinse solution. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if used consistently at even intervals. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this more frequently or stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor. Keep track of the number of inhalations used from each canister. Discard the canister after you have used the number of inhalations specified on the manufacturer's package. It may take up to 2 weeks or longer before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- fluticasone and salmeterol oral inhaler, Advair Diskus - Information on fluticasone and salmeterol oral inhaler (Advair Diskus), a drug prescribed for the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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