Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: fluticasone
BRAND NAME: Flonase, Veramyst
DRUG CLASS AND
MECHANISM: Fluticasone is a synthetic steroid of the glucocorticoid family of
drugs that is used for treating allergic conditions involving the nose.
Fluticasone mimics the naturally-occurring hormone produced by the adrenal
glands, cortisol or hydrocortisone. The exact mechanism of action of fluticasone
is unknown. Fluticasone has potent anti-inflammatory actions. It is believed
that fluticasone exerts its beneficial effects by inhibiting several types of
cells and chemicals involved in allergic, immune and inflammatory responses.
When used as a nasal inhaler or spray, the medication goes directly to the
lining within the nose, and very little is absorbed into the rest of the body.
The FDA approved fluticasone in October 1994.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Intranasal spray: 50 or 27.5 mcg per actuation
STORAGE: Fluticasone should be stored at 4°-30°C (39°-86°F) and shaken well
before each use.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Fluticasone is used for the control of symptoms of allergic
and non-allergic rhinitis, a condition in which the lining of the nose swells
and releases fluid that results in a stuffy and
runny nose.
DOSING: Fluticasone usually is administered as two sprays in each nostril
once daily, or one spray in each nostril twice daily. After a few days of
continuous use, one spray in each nostril once daily may be sufficient.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Ritonavir (Norvir) and ketoconazole (Nizoral) may increase the blood
concentrations of fluticasone and potentially increase its side effects.
PREGNANCY: Fluticasone has not been adequately evaluated in pregnant women.
Fluticasone should be used during
pregnancy when it is absolutely necessary.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known if fluticasone is secreted in breast milk.
Other medications in the same class as fluticasone are secreted into breast
milk. Fluticasone should be used only while
breastfeeding if it is absolutely
necessary.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects associated with fluticasone are
headache, throat infection, nasal irritation, sneezing,
cough, nausea,
vomiting,
and nosebleeds. Hypersensitivity reactions such as skin rash, itching, facial
swelling, and anaphylaxis may occur. Some children may experience growth
suppression when using fluticasone.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 4/14/2008
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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.
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