Fluticasone nasal (nose) spray is a steroid medicine used to prevent and treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis and hay fever, including sneezing, itchy and runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and a blocked nose. These are conditions caused by irritants in the air such as pollen, house dust mites and animal dander (tiny flecks of skin shed by animals).
It works by reducing the swelling and irritation inside the nose.
Flixonase, Avamys and Nasofan are prescription-only for adults and children. You can get some brands of fluticasone nasal spray, such as Pirinase, from pharmacies and shops but you must be 18 years old or over.
Fluticasone also comes as nasal drops that are used to shrink nasal polyps (painless soft growths inside the nose) to relieve the blocked nose. These are only available on prescription. Brand names include Flixonase.
Fluticasone is a type of medicine called a steroid (or corticosteroid). It's not the same as anabolic steroids.
Some nasal sprays, such as Dymista, contain fluticasone mixed with other medicines, such as antihistamines. These are used to treat allergic rhinitis.
Fluticasone also comes as an inhaler to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and as a cream or ointment for skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
Key facts
- You need to use fluticasone regularly for it to work.
- The most common side effects are an unpleasant taste or smell, nosebleeds and a dry or sore nose or throat.
- Not all brands are suitable for children. It's important that your child only uses the spray prescribed for them.
- If you're pregnant, speak to your doctor or a pharmacist before buying fluticasone nasal spray at a pharmacy or supermarket.
- If your doctor has prescribed high doses of fluticasone to control your symptoms you may need to carry a steroid emergency card. Ask your pharmacist or doctor.