How and when to use inhaled fluticasone - Brand name: Flixotide

Dosage

The usual dose for the fluticasone inhaler is 1 or 2 puffs, taken twice a day.

It's important to use your fluticasone inhaler or nebuliser regularly to manage your symptoms. Use it regularly, even if you do not have any symptoms.

After using your inhaler, always put the lid back on to keep it clean.

Fluticasone inhalers come in different strengths. Your doctor, asthma nurse or respiratory nurse will tell you which strength is right for you. Always follow their instructions. They may tell you to have more than 2 puffs at a time from your inhaler. It depends on how bad your breathing is and which inhaler you're using.

The usual dose for the nebuliser is 0.5mg to 2mg, breathed in from the nebuliser machine, twice a day.

Fluticasone nebules come in different strengths. Your doctor or nurse will give you clear instructions on how to use the nebuliser.

Changes to your dose

Your dose may go up or down depending on how bad your breathing is. You'll be prescribed the lowest dose that controls your symptoms.

If you've agreed on a personal action plan with your doctor or nurse, follow your action plan.

Different types of inhalers

There are different types of fluticasone inhaler. It's very important to use your inhaler properly. This is so you get the right amount of fluticasone into your lungs and the most benefit from your medicine.

Before using your inhaler, read the information leaflet that comes with it. This leaflet contains instructions and diagrams to show you how to use the inhaler, how to keep it clean, and how long to use it before getting a replacement.

Check your inhaler technique

To get the most from your inhaler, it's important to have your technique checked regularly.

If you are not sure how to use your inhaler, or your technique has not been checked for a year, ask your doctor, nurse or a pharmacist to watch you use it.

It's very important to use your inhaler properly. This is so you get the right amount of fluticasone into your lungs and the most benefit from your medicine.

Using your inhaler with a spacer

If you or your child find it difficult to use an inhaler, your doctor or nurse may give you a spacer to use with it.

A spacer is a large plastic container with a mouthpiece and a hole for the inhaler. When used with the inhaler it makes it easier to get the right amount of fluticasone into your lungs.

Spacers can reduce the risk of side effects from the medicine affecting your mouth and throat. They're particularly useful for giving fluticasone to young children.

Your doctor, nurse or a pharmacist can show you how to use a spacer with your inhaler.

How long to use it for

You'll usually use fluticasone for a long time. It helps prevent your asthma or COPD getting worse.

It's important to keep using your inhaler or nebuliser even if you feel better.

Do not stop using fluticasone suddenly, even if you feel better, without speaking to your doctor or nurse first.

If you have an inhaler or nebuliser to control asthma or COPD, your breathing problems may return if you suddenly stop using it.

If you forget to use it

If you forget a dose, use your inhaler or nebuliser as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

If you take too much

Taking more than your prescribed dose of fluticasone is unlikely to harm you.

If you're worried, talk to your doctor or a pharmacist.

Steroid cards

If you take more than 400 micrograms of fluticasone a day (for example, if your dose is 250 micrograms, twice a day), ask your doctor, nurse or a pharmacist if you need to carry a blue steroid treatment card, a red steroid emergency card, or both.