FLIXONASE AQUEOUS NASAL SPRAY 0.05% w/w
WHAT FLIXONASE IS USED FOR
Flixonase contains a corticosteroid called fluticasone propionate, which treats inflamed tissue. The tiny amounts sprayed into your nose help to reduce swelling and irritation.
Flixonase is used to prevent and treat allergic rhinitis (including allergic symptoms due to dust mites, moulds and pet hair) in adults aged 18 years and over.
When you have rhinitis, the inside of your nose becomes swollen and itchy. This usually occurs when people breathe in allergens from house dust mites or mould or fur from animals such as cats or dogs.
When you spray Flixonase into your nose, it helps to relieve the itching, sneezing, and blocked or runny nose.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions or if you aren't sure why Flixonase has been recommended for you. Flixonase is non-drowsy, and is not addictive.
BEFORE YOU USE FLIXONASE
When you must not use it
Do not use Flixonase if you have ever had an allergic reaction to fluticasone propionate, an allergic reaction to any other corticosteroid or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
Read the side effects section to find out the symptoms of an allergic reaction – please refer to the Product Insert/Patient Information Leaflet published on HSA for the full drug information.
Do not use Flixonase after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack. If you use it after the expiry date has passed, it might not work as well.
Do not use Flixonase if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.
If you're not sure whether you should be using Flixonase, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
HOW TO USE FLIXONASE
How much to use
To be sprayed into the nose only.
If your Flixonase is new and you have not used it before, or if you have not used it for one week or more, you should activate a few sprays into the air before use.
For adults above 18 years old, the usual dose is two sprays into each nostril once a day, preferably in the morning. In some cases, two sprays twice daily may be required. The maximum daily dose should not exceed four sprays per nostril. Flixonase should not be used in children under 18 years of age unless on the advice of a doctor.
Flixonase quickly starts to reduce inflammation and swelling in your nose, although it may take a few days to significantly improve symptoms. Therefore to prevent the onset of symptoms, start to use Flixonase a few days before expected exposure to one of your 'usual' triggers.
It may take a few days for this medicine to work and it is VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU USE IT REGULARLY for the recommended treatment duration. If you stop the treatment when you feel better, your symptoms may return as the medication wears off.
If your symptoms include itchy watery eyes and they trouble you, inform your pharmacist or doctor.
If after seven days of continuous use:
your symptoms have not improved, stop using the spray and speak to your doctor.
your symptoms have improved but not enough, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Do not use for more than 3 months without the advice of a doctor or pharmacist.
If you use too much (overdose)
If you or someone else accidentally uses too much Flixonase on one occasion, there is nothing to worry about. However, if you use too much of it over a long time (months or years) you may start to get unwanted side effects inside your nose and body.
It is important that you take your dose as stated on the pharmacist's label or as advised by your doctor. You should use only as much as your doctor recommends; using more or less may make your symptoms worse.
Discuss any worries you may have about this with your doctor or pharmacist.
USING THE SPRAY
HOW LONG TO USE THE SPRAY
Your pharmacist or doctor will tell you how long to use your Flixonase for.
Do not use the spray for more than 3 months without the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.
If you forget to use the spray
If you miss a dose, just use the next one when it is due.