Perhaps you’ve just been prescribed Flonase by your doctor, or you picked up a bottle from your local pharmacy to help with your allergies. Either way, you might be wondering how to properly use this product to achieve maximum relief. In this article, you’ll get an easy and comprehensive guide on properly using Flonase, ensuring you alleviate your symptoms with each daily dose.
Understanding What Flonase Is
Flonase is a leading medication used for treating symptoms related to allergies. It has gained popularity over the years because of its effectiveness and the backing of many professionals in healthcare.
Definition of Flonase
Flonase is a brand name for a scientific drug called fluticasone propionate. This is a corticosteroid medication specifically designed to help manage and alleviate the symptoms associated with allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.
Uses of Flonase
Flonase is primarily used to treat symptoms of both seasonal and perennial allergies. It is used to relieve sneezing, congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, nose and throat, and other symptoms related to allergic and non-allergic rhinitis.
Benefits of Flonase
One major benefit of using Flonase is that it provides comprehensive relief from all major allergy symptoms. It works not just on nasal symptoms but also on those related to eyes, palate and ‘itchy throat’. Moreover, its long-lasting effect can provide relief for up to 24 hours.
How Flonase Works
The understanding of Flonase’s working mechanism is essential to comprehend its effectiveness.
How Flonase treats nasal symptoms
Flonase works by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. It does this by first attaching itself to the glucocorticoid receptors found in the nasal cells. It then activates the receptors to produce a protein that can inhibit various types of cells and chemicals involved in all allergic reactions.
Duration of action of Flonase
Flonase provides relief for up to 24 hours with just one administration per day. It doesn’t offer immediate relief to allergy symptoms; however, its regular use can help control these symptoms over time.
How often to use Flonase
The recommended frequency of use for Flonase varies depending on the symptoms or condition being treated. It is generally used once or twice daily, and patients are advised to follow their doctor’s instructions.
Before Using Flonase
Before using Flonase, there are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the medication.
Medical conditions to be considered
Before using Flonase, inform your healthcare provider if you have tuberculosis, herpes simplex infection of the eyes, or untreated fungal, bacterial, systemic viral infections, or ocular herpes simplex, and are not effectively controlled with treatment.
Potential allergies
As with any medication, Flonase can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It’s crucial to let your healthcare provider know if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to fluticasone or any other medication.
Interaction with other medication
Flonase can interact with other medications, thereby affecting how they work or increasing side effects. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbs you’re taking.
Preparation for Use of Flonase
Before using Flonase, certain preparation steps are necessary.
Inspecting the package
Before using, take time to inspect the package. Be sure to check the expiration date and make sure that the spray’s safety seal is intact.
Understanding the parts of the Flonase sprayer
Familiarize yourself with the different parts of the Flonase sprayer, including the spray nozzle, the pump, and the sealed plastic bottle which contains the medication.
Cleaning the nasal passages
Before administering Flonase, it’s important to clean out your nasal passages. This can be done by gently blowing your nose to clear up any mucus or congestion.
Step by Step Guide on How to Use Flonase
If used correctly, Flonase can be a highly effective tool to combat your allergy symptoms.
Priming the Flonase sprayer
Before the first use, the sprayer must be primed by shaking the medication well and spraying it into the air away from the face until a fine mist is seen.
Administering the spray
After priming, gently insert the nozzle into one nostril and close the other nostril with a finger. Depress the pump while inhaling through the nose to deliver the medication.
Breathing techniques while using Flonase
While using Flonase, breathe gently in through the nostril and out through your mouth. Avoid sneezing or blowing your nose immediately after using the medication.
Dosage and Frequency of Usage
Getting the right dosage and frequency of usage is crucial in using this medication
Recommended dosage of Flonase
The recommended dosage may vary depending on the condition being treated and your individual response to the medication. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Frequency of usage
Typically, Flonase is used once or twice a day. However, this will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your healthcare provider’s advice.
When to use Flonase for best results
It is usually recommended to use Flonase at the same time each day for the best results.
Possible Side Effects of Flonase
Like all medications, Flonase can also cause some side effects.
Common side effects
Some of the more common side effects of Flonase include nasal irritation or burning, nausea, vomiting, cough, or headaches.
Less common side effects
Some of the less common side effects of Flonase include changes in taste or smell, nosebleeds, or symptoms of a sinus infection, such as fever, severe headache, or pain behind the eyes.
When you should seek medical help
If you experience severe or persistent side effects, including those not listed, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Any signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing, should also be reported to a healthcare provider promptly.
Storage and Disposal of Flonase
How you store and dispose of your Flonase can affect its effectiveness and safe usage.
Proper storage conditions
Flonase should be stored at room temperature, away from light, heat, and moisture. It should also be kept out of reach of children.
When and how to discard expired Flonase
All expired or unused Flonase should be discarded safely. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless advised to do so by a healthcare provider.
What to do when Flonase appears discolored or has floating particles
If your Flonase appears discolored or has floating particles in it, it may not be safe to use. In such cases, stop using it and consult with your healthcare provider.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Flonase
When considering using Flonase, it can be helpful to discuss the following questions with your doctor.
Proper usage
Ask your doctor for specific instructions on how to use Flonase properly and what to expect while using it.
What to do in cases of missed doses
What should you do if you miss a dose? Is it safe to double up on doses or should you skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule?
Health monitoring while using Flonase
Find out how often to see your doctor while using Flonase and what symptoms to watch for that might indicate problems.
What to Do in Cases of Overdose or Misuse
A clear understanding of the signs of overdose or misuse and the correct response can crucially impact health outcomes.
Recognizing symptoms of overdose
Symptoms of a Flonase overdose may include fatigue, easy bruising, thinning skin, increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.
Responding to situations of overdose or misuse
If you suspect an overdose, contact a healthcare provider or a poison control center immediately. Dop not induce vomiting unless told to do so.
Measures to prevent overdose or misuse
To prevent misuse or overdose, always use Flonase as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not share your Flonase with others, even if they have the same symptoms as you do.
