Instructions for using Flixonase allergic rhinitis spray bottle

Posted by Pharmacist Cao Thanh Tu, Faculty of Pharmacy - Vinmec Times City International Hospital

Flixonase nasal spray mist contains Fluticasone propionate as the main ingredient. This medication belongs to the group of corticosteroids (also called steroids). Nasal steroids work to reduce inflammation, swelling, and irritation in the nose. Therefore, Flixonase spray helps relieve itchy nose, sneezing, stuffy nose and runny nose. Flixonase spray is used to prevent and treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (such as pollen allergies) and perennial allergic rhinitis (such as dog and cat allergies).

For adults and children 12 years of age and older: The usual starting dose is 2 sprays in each nostril, once a day, preferably in the morning. In some cases it may be necessary to spray twice a day, 2 sprays in each nostril (ie 8 sprays a day, 4 sprays in each nostril). In general, this dose should not be exceeded. Once symptoms have improved, your doctor may reduce your dose to 1 spray in each nostril once daily. If symptoms worsen, the starting dose can be increased again.
For children aged 4 to 11 years: The usual starting dose is one spray in each nostril per day. In some cases it can be increased but should not exceed 2 sprays in each nostril in a day.

Start aerosol: Starting the aerosol helps to ensure uniform doses. You must start the sprayer in the following cases:
Before using the sprayer for the first time The sprayer is not used for a few days After cleaning the sprayer How to start the sprayer:
Shake the sprayer and remove the anti-freeze cap dust Hold spray bottle up and spray nozzle away from you Place index and middle fingers on rims on either side of nozzle, place thumbs on bottom of spray bottle While keeping thumb still, press nozzle with index and middle fingers Spray down to release the medicine. Do this several times until you see a spray containing ultrafine particles. The sprayer is now ready to use If the nozzle is suspected to be clogged: Clean the nozzle according to the instructions in the section “cleaning the sprayer”. Do not use pins or other sharp objects to unclog as it may damage the spray. Use the sprayer
Shake the bottle to mix the medicine, remove the dustproof cap Blow your nose gently to clean the nostrils Close one nostril and place the tip Spray into the other nostril. Tilt your head slightly forward, holding the inhaler up. Inhale slowly through the nose. While inhaling, use your index finger and middle finger to push down the nozzle, one dose of medicine will go into the nostrils Exhale through the mouth Do the same for the 2nd dose in the same nostril and the other nostril After using After use, wipe the nozzle with a clean cloth and put the cap back on. Cleaning the sprayer: it is recommended to clean the sprayer at least once a week to prevent the nozzle from becoming clogged
Remove the dust cap Remove the spray nozzle by pulling the nozzle up Soak spray nozzle and dust cap for a few minutes in warm water then rinse under running water, flake off water and allow to dry in a warm place Insert nozzle back into spray bottle Restart sprayer as directed above

Follow the correct spray technique to ensure the most effective medication and avoid side effects. Pay special attention to the head position while spraying. Do not tilt your head back, but slightly forward. This position helps to prevent the medicine from going down the throat (to create an unpleasant taste) and to keep the medicine in the nose (for better effects). Do not point the nozzle at the nasal septum as this may cause irritation. If there is mucus or rust on the nose, it should be cleaned by using physiological saline for the nose before using Flixonase spray (because mucus and rust can prevent the drug from contacting the nasal mucosa, leading to reduced effectiveness). If you forget to take Flixonase spray, take your next dose as usual, skip the missed dose, do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Regular use is required for full effect. Usually medication does not relieve symptoms immediately. The full effect of Flixonase spray can only be achieved after a few days of treatment (3 – 4 days). Do not stop self-medicating when symptoms have improved (unless directed by your doctor) because symptoms may return.

Some common side effects when using Flixonase allergic rhinitis medicine are unpleasant smell, taste, dry nose, dry throat. Some people may experience nasopharyngeal irritation, nosebleeds, especially during winter or in environments with low humidity and when doses are too high. To limit this situation you can use moisturizing nasal spray gels. In some cases, a dose adjustment may be necessary.
Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects while taking the medicine or have signs of a serious allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, wheezing, difficulty breathing, rash...