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. It’s crucial to store the inhaler properly. Patients should consult their medical professional for advice on side effects, precautions, and proper use of Flovent HFA to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Uses
Targeted Treatment
- Maintaining and reducing asthma attacks
Benefits
- Reduces inflammation in the airways of the lungs.
- Helps proceed with routine activities
- Reduces and prevents asthma attacks
[Note: Do not take Flovent HFA without consulting your doctor. They will determine whether you need this medication based on your conditions.]
Flovent HFA Dosage
Forms & Strengths
Form: Inhaler
Strength: 44 mcg, 110 mcg, 220 mcg
Recommended Dosages
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 Take It?
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.
Clean Your Flovent HFA:
- Clean the inhaler weekly by removing the cap and using a dry swab for the canister opening.
- 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.
[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 functions by reducing inflammation in the airways. When inhaled, it delivers the medication directly to the lungs, decreasing swelling and irritation in the airways. This medication helps to prevent and control symptoms of asthma, like, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, by making breathing easier and reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Important Safety Information
Side Effects
Common side effects of Flovent HFA may include:
- Headache
- Voice hoarseness or difficulty speaking
- Throat irritation
- Cough
- Upper respiratory tract infection (e.g., common cold)
- Sinus infection or swelling
Adverse side effects of Flovent HFA may include:
- Severe allergic reaction: Symptoms include hives, facial or tongue swelling, and trouble breathing.
- 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.
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Warnings
- 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.
- Gradual reduction of oral corticosteroids is recommended when transitioning to Flovent HFA, with careful monitoring of lung function, asthma symptoms, and signs of adrenal insufficiency.
- 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.
Precautions
- 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.
Contraindications
- 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.
Missed Dose
- 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.]
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.]
Storage
- 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.]
Flovent HFA Interactions
- 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 the 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.
[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.]
Flovent HFA Alternatives
- 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.]
Frequently Asked Questions
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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