Precautions and Warnings
Before taking Flovent HFA, inform your doctor if you have any allergies to fluticasone or other corticosteroid medications. You should tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have. Certain conditions including liver disease, infections, tuberculosis, and immune system disorders may affect how the drug works.
These may increase your risk of experiencing side effects or interfere with the effectiveness of Flovent HFA. Using a corticosteroid for a long time can affect child growth. Talk to your doctor if your child relies this too often to manage breathing problems
How Flovent HFA Works
Flovent HFA works by reducing the inflammation in the airways caused by asthma. When inhaled, it helps to open up the airways and allows for easier breathing. This medication should be taken regularly to achieve its full benefit.
It may take a few weeks or longer to see improvement in symptoms when used properly. Do not take extra doses hoping for accelerated treatment. Exceeding the recommended dose provides no therapeutic benefit and can lead to adverse reactions.
Do not stop using Flovent HFA without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Suddenly stopping this medication may result in worsening symptoms.
Side Effects
Flovent HFA may cause side effects. The most common side effects include headache, sore throat, hoarseness or changes in voice, coughing, and nausea. If you have serious reactions including allergies, trouble breathing, chest pain, or face/tongue swelling, seek immediate medical attention.
It is important to discuss any concerns about the potential side effects with your doctor before starting treatment. A complete list of side effects can be found in the medication guide provided by your pharmacist.
Side effects may include:
- hoarseness or other voice changes
- eye irritation
- headache, severe and throbbing
- vaginal discharge (creamy white) and itching
- ear ache
- White patches in the mouth and throat
- sneezing
- lower abdominal or stomach pain
- fever
- greenish-yellow mucus in the nose
- runny, sore, or stuffy nose
- pain on passing urine
- nausea
- Bloody mucus or unexplained nosebleeds
- general aches and pains or general feeling of illness
- sore throat
- vomiting
- trouble swallowing
- redness or discharge of the eye, eyelid, or lining of the eye
- Bone pain
- mouth irritation
- irregular or painful menstrual periods
- stomach pain
- Cough
- headache
- diarrhea
- muscle soreness, sprain, or strain
- joint pain
Before Taking Flovent HFA
Before taking Flovent HFA, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if this medication will harm an unborn baby. It is also not recommended for use while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk.
If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not increase your doses unless directed by your doctor. It is important to talk to your pharmacist about any possible drug interactions.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of Flovent HFA will vary depending on the severity of your asthma and your age. It is usually prescribed as 1 or 2 inhalations twice a day, with at least 12 hours between doses. Do not exceed the maximum dose prescribed by your healthcare professional.
Flovent HFA should be used as directed. It is important to not skip doses or stop using the medication without consulting your doctor.
Be sure to rinse your mouth with water after taking your dose. This can prevent fungus (thrush) from forming. If the product does not have a counter. Use a calendar to track the number of doses left in the product.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Flovent HFA?
If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not increase your doses unless directed by your doctor.
Can Flovent HFA be used for sudden asthma attacks?
No, Flovent HFA is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden asthma attacks. It is important to always have a rescue inhaler on hand in case of emergencies.
How long does it take for Flovent HFA to work?
It may take a few weeks or longer to see improvement in symptoms. Do not stop using Flovent HFA without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better. Suddenly stopping this medication may result in worsening symptoms.
Can I share my Flovent HFA with others?
You should never share your medication with others. Even if they have similar symptoms, this may not be an effective treatment for their condition. They should see their own doctor for a relevant treatment option.