GENERIC NAME: FLUTICASONE - ORAL HFA INHALER (flew-TICK-uh-sown)

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.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease - Learn about COPD - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease which is primarily two related diseases - chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• Lungs Design And Purpose - Learn about the design and purpose of the lungs including how oxygen is taken into the body and carbon dioxide is expelled through gas exchange. Healthy lungs are important, and there are many diseases of the lung(s).

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