Fluticasone Propionate
Flovent HFA
Flovent HFA is an FDA-approved inhaled corticosteroid that plays a crucial role in managing asthma for adults and children aged 4 and above. It helps reduce airway inflammation, thereby preventing asthma attacks and improving breathing. The inhaler comes in strengths of 44 mcg, 110 mcg, and 220 mcg, with typical starting dosages ranging from 88 mcg to 220 mcg twice daily for adults and adolescents and 88 mcg twice daily for children. It’s essential to rinse the mouth after use to minimize the risk of oral infections. While Flovent HFA is effective in controlling asthma, it is not suitable for treating sudden asthma attacks; a rescue inhaler should be used for immediate relief. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for guidance on side effects and precautions.
Product Overview
Flovent HFA (fluticasone propionate) is an inhaled corticosteroid medication mainly used for managing asthma. It is designed to reduce inflammation in the airways, thereby decreasing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks and improving overall lung function. Flovent HFA is available in three strengths: 44 mcg, 110 mcg, and 220 mcg, and is FDA-approved for use in both adults and children aged 4 years and older. The medication works by delivering fluticasone directly to the lungs, where it exerts its anti-inflammatory effects.
To use Flovent HFA, patients should shake the inhaler well, exhale fully, and then inhale the medication through the mouthpiece while pressing down on the canister. It’s important to rinse the mouth after use to reduce the risk of oral infections. The typical starting dosage for adults and adolescents is between 88 mcg to 220 mcg twice daily. Dosages may be adjusted based on the patient’s response to treatment.
Common side effects of Flovent HFA include headache, throat irritation, and cough. Severe side effects may include serious allergic reactions and changes in hormone levels. Patients should not use Flovent HFA to treat acute asthma attacks and should always have a rescue inhaler on hand. Proper storage of the inhaler is crucial. Patients should consult their medical professional for advice on side effects, precautions, and proper use of Flovent HFA to ensure safe and effective treatment.
What Are the Uses of Flovent HFA?
Flovent HFA is used for the following purposes:
- Maintaining and reducing asthma attacks
- Reducing inflammation in the airways of the lungs.
- Helping proceed with routine activities
- Reducing and preventing asthma attacks
[Note: Do not take Flovent HFA without consulting your doctor. They will determine whether you need this medication based on your conditions.]
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Flovent HFA?
Flovent HFA comes in the following forms and strengths:
Form: Inhaler
Strength: 44 mcg, 110 mcg, 220 mcg
What Is the Recommended Dosage for Flovent HFA?
The recommended dosage for fluticasone propionate hfa aerosol may vary from person to person depending on various factors, including age, needs, and the patient’s response to treatment. The dosage mentioned below is generalized, and if your doctor has prescribed you a medication different from the one mentioned below, you should not change your dosage without talking to your doctor, as it can cause undesirable side effects. Flovent dosage according to age group is as follows:
For Teenagers and Adults (12 Years and Older):
- The typical starting dosage ranges from 88 mcg to 220 mcg, administered twice daily.
- The maximum recommended dosage is 880 mcg per day, divided into two doses.
For Children (4 to 11 Years Old):
- The usual starting dosage is 88 mcg, administered twice daily.
- The maximum recommended dosage for this age group is 176 mcg per day, divided into two doses.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Use Flovent HFA?
To ensure safe and efficient use of the medication, carefully read and follow the step-by-step directions given at the end of the patient information leaflet and, if available, the medication guide provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Make sure you understand how to use this medication, and if you have any queries or concerns regarding the medication use or if you have difficulty understanding any part of the leaflet, ask your physician. The step-by-step directions for use are as follows:
Shake the Inhaler:
- Remove the cap from Flovent HFA.
- Hold the canister with your finger on top and thumb under the mouthpiece.
- Shake the inhaler for 5-10 seconds.
Breathe Out Fully:
- Exhale completely to prepare to inhale the medication.
Inhale the Medication:
- Place the mouthpiece in your mouth while sealing your lips around it.
- Press down on the canister once while taking a deep, slow breath from your mouth.
- Now, hold your breath for 5-10 seconds, then exhale.
Repeat if Needed:
- For multiple doses, wait 30 seconds and repeat the steps.
Rinse Your Mouth:
- Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the risk of infection. While you are using Flovent HFA, pay special attention to your oral hygiene, as this medication may cause tooth discoloration or cavities.
Clean Your Flovent HFA:
- Clean the inhaler weekly by removing the cap and using a dry swab for the canister opening.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M-JqiJDE3A6cgAGEt8HwGa7CBdUDVGbfO9WjZxaoxTg/edit
- Wipe the mouthpiece with a damp tissue and let it dry overnight before replacing the cap.
Using a Spacer (If Recommended):
- Shake the inhaler and attach it to the spacer.
- Exhale fully, then inhale the medication slowly through the spacer.
- Try to hold your breath for at least 5-10 seconds, then exhale. Repeat as directed.
Your doctor will monitor your progress on a regular basis while you are using Fluticasone. You may also need to get your vision checked regularly. Get in touch with your doctor at once if your condition does not get better after two weeks of treatment or if your symptoms get worse. If you use a peak flow meter, call your doctor if your numbers are lower than average.
This medication is not a rescue inhaler and will not function fast enough to manage an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, you should only use a rapid-acting inhalation medication. Immediately call your doctor if your condition worsens or if you suspect that the medication you are using is not working as well as it should. You should not let a child use it without adult supervision.
To get the most out of your inhaler, follow the dosage advised by your doctor. To help you remember to take it, set a time that is most convenient for you and take it around the same time every day.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Flovent HFA Work?
Flovent HFA (fluticasone propionate) is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways. When inhaled, the medication is delivered directly to the lungs, decreasing swelling and irritation. This medication helps prevent and control asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, by making breathing easier and reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Important Safety Information Flovent HFA
What Are the Side Effects of Flovent HFA?
Common side effects of Flovent HFA: Similar to other medications, Flovent HFA may also cause side effects in some people using it to relieve asthma symptoms. It is important to mention that not everyone using it will experience such symptoms. Most side effects are not severe and disappear within a few days without any medical attention. Some of the common side effects of Flovent HFA are given below.
- Headache: The exact reason why Flovent HFA causes headaches is not entirely clear, but it may be related to the corticosteroids, including Flovent, affecting the body’s hormone imbalance. It may disappear within a few days or weeks, but consult your doctor if it becomes troublesome or persistent.
- Voice hoarseness or difficulty speaking: Hoarseness, also known as dysphonia, can be a side effect of corticosteroids such as fluticasone as it affects the vocal cords. Its symptoms may include hoarseness, difficulty speaking, pain, and oral thrush. To reduce the risk of damage to the vocal cord, you should rinse your mouth with water and spit out after each dose, use the lowest effective dose of corticosteroids for the lowest duration, and administer the dose with a spacer, if recommended.
- Throat irritation: Inhaled corticosteroids are usually dry powders that may stick to the throat, mouth, and airway lining, causing dryness and irritation. To reduce the risk of throat irritation, you should learn how to use your inhaler properly, brush your teeth & rinse your mouth before and after inhalation.
- Cough: You may experience coughing if the inhalation of the steroid dose is incomplete or may be due to a yeast infection or upper respiratory tract infection. Immediately call your doctor if you have signs & symptoms of breathing difficulties such as worsened breathing problems or if you notice your medication is not working as well as it should.
- Sinus infection or swelling: This is one of the most common side effects of corticosteroids such as Flovent HFA. Its symptoms may include swelling around the eyes, forehead, and nose, tenderness, pain, or runny and blocked nose.
Adverse side effects of Flovent HFA: Rarely, this medication can cause serious symptoms in some users. These severe side effects require immediate medical attention and may become fatal if not managed correctly. It is important to mention that your doctor has recommended this medication after determining that the benefits of this steroid medication outweigh the risks associated with its use. You should discontinue this medication and immediately call your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms.
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- Severe allergic reaction: Some users can experience allergic reactions to this medication, which can become fatal if not treated promptly. Severe allergic reactions may include anaphylaxis, angioedema, bronchospasm, and allergic dermatitis. Symptoms include hives, facial or tongue swelling, and trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should immediately discontinue using Flovent and call your doctor, as they can indicate a severe allergic reaction.
- Airway constriction: Signs include difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, and coughing.
- Alterations in stress hormone levels: Indicators may include weight gain in the abdominal area, facial puffiness, weakness in the arms or legs, easy bruising, stretch marks around the abdomen, fatigue, mood swings, irregular menstrual cycles, and nausea or vomiting.
- Oral thrush: Inhaled Flovent can lead to a condition known as Oral thrush or fungal infection in your throat and mouth. To reduce the risk of an oral thrush, you should rinse your mouth with plenty of water and spit it out after each dose. Do not swallow the water. Call your doctor if you notice any signs and symptoms of thrush, such as pain in the throat, loss of taste, cracking in the mouth corners, hoarseness in voice, and white spots in the throat or mouth.
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- Breathing issues: This medication can cause bronchospasm, a condition in which the airways muscles tighten. In some rare cases, this can be serious. Contact your doctor if your breathing problems worsen or if you think this medication is not working as well as it should.
- Increased infection: This medication can weaken your immune, making you more susceptible to infections, including severe infections. Call your healthcare provider immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Chills
- nausea/vomiting
- Bodyache or pain
- Vision problems: This medication can increase ocular pressure or worsen narrow-angle glaucoma in people with glaucoma, which can further lead to blindness. Inhaled fluticasone can cause cataracts. You should have regular eye tests while using this medication. Tell your doctor right away if you experience changes in vision, such as blindness, pain or redness in the eyes, severe headache, nausea, vomiting, vision halos, and cloudy, blurry, foggy, or filmy vision.
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- Weak bones: Using Flovent HFA for the long term can cause osteopenia, which can cause fracture more easily. You should talk with your doctor about any risk factors if you have weak bones, such as a family history of weak bones, long-term use of a corticosteroid, or poor eating habits. While you are on fluticasone, your doctor will monitor your bone density or recommend treatment based on the results. Call your doctor immediately if you break a bone and get a bone mineral density test if your doctor recommends you take it.
- Slow growth: This medication can slow growth in pediatric patients who are still in their growth phase. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s growth.
- Immune system reaction: In rare cases, this medication can increase the chance of developing an immune system reaction, sometimes called Churg-Strauss syndrome. Talk to your doctor if you have any of the symptoms, such as worsening breathing problems, rashes, heart problems, pain, weakness, or numbness in your hands, legs, or feet.
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Flovent HFA?
There are several warnings that you should consider while using corticosteroids, including Flovent HFA.
- Patients transitioning from systemic corticosteroids to Flovent HFA should be monitored carefully due to the risk of adrenal insufficiency and potential withdrawal symptoms.
- Flovent HFA is not suitable for immediate asthma attack relief; it is a long-term control medication.
- Patients with a history of using high doses of oral corticosteroids may be more susceptible to adrenal insufficiency when switching to Flovent HFA.
- During stressful situations or severe asthma attacks, patients may need to resume oral corticosteroids and consult their physician.
- Caution is advised when using Flovent HFA with ritonavir due to the risk of increased fluticasone propionate exposure and potential systemic corticosteroid side effects.
- When transitioning to Flovent HFA, oral corticosteroids should be gradually reduced, and lung function, asthma symptoms, and signs of adrenal insufficiency should be carefully monitored.
- Transitioning to Flovent HFA may reveal conditions previously suppressed by systemic corticosteroid therapy.
- Patients on immunosuppressive drugs, including Flovent HFA, are at increased risk of infections. Precautions should be taken to avoid exposure to chickenpox and measles.
- Flovent HFA is not a bronchodilator and is not supposed to be used for rapid relief of bronchospasm. Patients should use a fast-acting bronchodilator for immediate relief if bronchospasm occurs.
- Patients should contact their physician if they experience asthma episodes not responsive to bronchodilators while using Flovent HFA, as oral corticosteroids may be required.
What Are the Flovent HFA Precautions?
There are certain precautions that you should keep in mind before you buy Flovent HFA online to treat asthma. Before using this medication, you should tell your doctor about your complete medical history and the medications you are using or plan to use, including all prescription, non-prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements. Some of the key points of precaution may include:
- Avoid inhalation powder (ArmonAir RespiClick, Arnuity Ellipta, Flovent Diskus) if allergic to milk proteins.
- Flovent HFA should not be used to treat an ongoing asthma attack.
- Inform your doctor if you have had:
- Any infection (bacterial, viral, fungal)
- Glaucoma or cataracts
- Parasitic infections (e.g., giardia, malaria, leishmaniasis)
- Tuberculosis
- Herpes infection of the eyes
- Liver disease
- Low bone mineral density
- A weak immune system
- Long-term steroid use may cause osteoporosis, especially with certain lifestyle factors or family history. Discuss your risk with your doctor.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, as untreated asthma can lead to pregnancy complications. However, the benefits you get from the treatment may outweigh the risks.
- Breastfeeding safety with this medication is uncertain. Consult your doctor.
- Do not give Flovent HFA to a child without medical advice.
What Are the Contraindications of Flovent HFA?
Flovent HFA is contraindicated for use in patients who have:
- Flovent (fluticasone propionate) Inhalation Aerosol should not be used as the first treatment for status asthmaticus or other severe acute asthma episodes requiring intensive care.
- If you are allergic to any components of this medication, it is not advisable to use it.
What If You Miss a Dose of Flovent HFA?
To ensure the medication’s safety and effectiveness, you should keep the dosage consistent. This will help you remember taking it around the same time every day.
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
- If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Flovent HFA?
You should not use Flovent HFA more than the prescribed dose, in large doses, or more frequently. This can lead to an overdose. Overdosing on fluticasone is generally not life-threatening. However, long-term use of inhaled steroids can lead to eye issues such as glaucoma and cataracts, skin thinning, altered fat distribution (e.g., in the face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction, and a reduced libido.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store Flovent HFA?
Proper storage instructions should be followed to maintain the medication’s effectiveness and ensure patient safety. It should be kept at room temperature, away from light, moisture, and heat.
- Store the Flovent HFA inhaler at a normal temperature that falls between 68°F and 77°F, with the inhaler mouthpiece pointing downwards.
- The contents of the Flovent HFA inhaler are under pressure. Do not pierce the canister.
- Keep the inhaler away from heat or open flames. Temperatures above 120°F might cause the canister to explode.
- Do not throw the inhaler into a fire or incinerator.
- Dispose of Flovent HFA in the trash when the counter reads 000.
- Ensure Flovent HFA and all medications are kept out of the reach of children.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Flovent HFA?
Medication interactions occur when drugs affect each other’s actions in the body, potentially altering their effectiveness or causing unwanted side effects. Before using a fluticasone HFA inhaler, talk to your doctor and tell them about all medicines you are using or plan to use alongside Flovent HFA, including all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal or vitamin supplements. Some of the potential drug interactions of Flovent HFA include:
- Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like ketoconazole, itraconazole, and ritonavir can increase the levels of fluticasone in the body, potentially resulting in increased side effects.
- Other Corticosteroids: Using Flovent HFA with oral or injected corticosteroids can increase the risk of side effects due to additive steroid effects.
- HIV Protease Inhibitors: Drugs such as ritonavir can increase systemic exposure to fluticasone, potentially leading to Cushing’s syndrome and adrenal suppression.
- CYP3A4 Inducers: Medications like phenobarbital, phenytoin, and rifampin can decrease the effectiveness of Flovent HFA by reducing its levels in the body.
- Beta-Adrenergic Agonists: The concurrent use of Flovent HFA with medications like albuterol may require dosage adjustments.
- Beta-blockers: These may reduce the effectiveness of Flovent HFA and potentially worsen asthma symptoms.
- Diuretics: Some diuretics can lower potassium levels, which may be exacerbated by Flovent HFA, increasing the risk of hypokalemia.
- Certain antidepressants: MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants may potentiate the effect of adrenergic components in the medication.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Flovent HFA. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Other Flovent HFA Interactions?
While generally safe and effective, Flovent HFA can interact with various substances such as herbs, supplements, food items, and beverages, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects. To reduce the risk of such interactions, your doctor may recommend you to make certain dietary or lifestyle changes.
- Grapefruit juice: Regular consumption can inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes, potentially increasing fluticasone levels.
- St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement may decrease fluticasone levels, reducing its effectiveness.
What Are the Flovent HFA Alternatives?
While effective for many patients, some individuals may require alternatives to Flovent HFA due to side effects, cost considerations, or failure to provide desired symptom control. Fortunately, the field of respiratory medicine offers a range of options for asthma management, including other inhaled corticosteroids, combination medications, and non-steroidal treatments. If you plan to change your medication or start a new one, you should talk to your doctor. Based on your individual needs, condition, and response to treatment, they will help you choose the medication that works best for you.
- Advair Diskus (fluticasone/salmeterol)
- Flovent Diskus (fluticasone)
- Pulmicort Respules (budesonide)
- Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol)
- Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol)
- Singulair (montelukast)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause or lead to serious side effects.]
Flovent HFA Cost & Coupons
Flovent HFA is commonly prescribed for managing conditions like asthma, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and eosinophilic esophagitis as part of the inhaled corticosteroids class. Many health insurance coverage do not include corticosteroids such as Flovent (fluticasone), which leads to out-of-pocket expenses. You can choose services like Polar Bear Meds, which offers Flovent HFA at reduced costs to reduce medical expenses. Additionally, first-time customers can benefit from discounts using a special flovent hfa inhaler coupon code WELCOMEPB10, which provides an additional 10% discount on their first order. Exploring these options can help significantly reduce costs for essential medications, such as fluticasone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Flovent help with a cough?
While fluticasone propionate hfa aerosol is primarily used to manage asthma & chronic obstructive pulmonary disease symptoms, it can also provide relief from coughing caused by airway inflammation. However, it is best to consult a licensed healthcare professional to find out the root cause of your cough and the most appropriate treatment.
What precautions should I take while using Flovent HFA?
Stay away from individuals who are ill or have infections. If you come into contact with chickenpox or measles, contact your doctor for preventive measures. These diseases can be severe or potentially deadly for those on steroid medication.
Is Flovent HFA suitable for treating an asthma attack?
No, Flovent HFA should not be used on an as-needed basis or as a rescue inhaler for an asthma attack. It is a long-acting corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs over time, helping to keep airways open. For immediate relief during an asthma attack, short-acting inhalers like albuterol (ProAir, Ventolin) should be used. It’s important to always carry your rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, even when you are using Flovent (fluticasone).
How can I tell if Flovent HFA is effective for me?
The effectiveness of Flovent HFA, a long-acting medication, is not immediately noticeable like short-acting rescue inhalers. Its efficacy is determined by the frequency of your asthma attacks and the need for your rescue inhaler. It may take 1 to 2 weeks to experience the full benefits of Flovent. If you still have asthma attacks after consistent use, your dose might need adjustment, or you might require an additional long-acting medication. Conversely, if your asthma is well-controlled for a while on Flovent, your provider may consider lowering your dose or discontinuing the medication.
Is it safe to use Flovent during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult with your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of using Flovent HFA. Limited data exist on the safety of Flovent during pregnancy. However, it is known that uncontrolled asthma poses significant risks to both the mother and the unborn baby. Current guidelines for managing asthma during pregnancy recommend the use of inhaled corticosteroids, such as Flovent, to maintain asthma control.
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