Drug name

Flovent (Fluticasone Propionate oral inhaler)

Drug Uses

Flovent is a corticosteroid that works directly in the lungs to make breathing easier by reducing the swelling and inflammation of the airways. This medication must be used regularly to prevent the wheezing and shortness of breath, caused by asthma, bronchitis, or some types of emphysema. This medication does not work immediately. Therefore, it is not used to relieve an acute asthma attack. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (e.g., albuterol, salbutamol) as prescribed.

How Taken

Read the Patient Information Leaflet which contains instructions for a proper use of this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Shake the canister well before using. Follow the instructions for test sprays in the air if you are using a canister for the first time or if you have not used it for a week or more. Avoid spraying the medication in your eyes. A fine mist is a sign that the inhaler is properly working. Inhale this medication by mouth usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is recommended that you use a spacer device with this medication. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Follow the detailed instructions for a proper use of the inhaler and cleaning of the mouthpiece. If two inhalations/puffs are prescribed, wait at least one minute between them. If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait several minutes between the use of each medication, and use this drug (the corticosteroid) last. To prevent dry mouth, hoarseness and oral yeast infections from developing, gargle and rinse your mouth after each use. Do not swallow the rinse solution. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if used consistently at even intervals. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this more frequently or stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor. Keep track of the number of inhalations used from each canister. Discard the canister after you have used the number of inhalations, specified on the manufacturer's package. It may take up to 2 weeks or longer before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store the US product at room temperature between 36-86 degrees F (2-30 degrees C). Store the Canadian product at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C). Store the medication away from light and moisture. Avoid freezing. Do not puncture or expose this medication to high heat or open flame. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Possible Side Effects

Dry or irritated throat, stuffy nose, hoarseness, or coughing may occur as your body adjusts to this drug. A bad taste in the mouth or flu-like symptoms may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: white patches in your mouth or on your tongue, persistent coughing, increased wheezing/trouble breathing. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: vision changes, increased thirst or urination, unusual or persistent headaches, chest pain or discomfort, numbness/tingling of the hands/feet. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

More Information

Do not share this medication with others. Learn to use a peak flow meter. Use it daily and promptly report worsening asthma (such as readings in the yellow or red range, or increased use of quick-relief inhalers). Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you need to use 4 or more puffs daily for 2 or more consecutive days or more than 1 inhaler (200 puff canister) every 8 weeks of your quick-relief inhaler. Make sure all of your doctors know that you are using this medication or have used it in the past. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., cortisol levels, lung function, eye exam) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

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