Dispensing Instructions for Flonase (Fluticasone Propionate)
For Flonase (fluticasone propionate) nasal spray, the dispensing instructions are age-dependent: children 4-11 years should receive 1 spray per nostril once daily, while adults and children 12 years and older should receive 2 sprays per nostril once daily. 1
Age-Specific Dosing Guidelines
Children 4-11 years:
- 1 spray per nostril once daily
- Maximum duration: 2 months per year before consulting a doctor 2
- Total daily dose: 50 μg per nostril (100 μg total)
Adults and Children ≥12 years:
- 2 sprays per nostril once daily
- Maximum duration: 6 months of daily use before consulting a doctor 2
- Total daily dose: 100 μg per nostril (200 μg total)
Administration Instructions
- Prior to first use: Prime the pump by pressing down 6 times or until a fine mist appears
- For regular use:
- Shake the bottle gently before each use
- Tilt head slightly forward
- Insert the nozzle into one nostril, pointing away from the nasal septum
- Press down firmly to deliver the spray while breathing in gently
- Repeat for the other nostril
Important Dispensing Considerations
- Fluticasone propionate is available as a 50 μg per spray aqueous formulation 1
- The medication is indicated for allergic rhinitis and nonallergic rhinitis 1
- Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to the medication or its components 1
- Common side effects include headache, pharyngitis, epistaxis, nasal burning/irritation, nausea, vomiting, asthma symptoms, and cough 1
Special Populations
- Children under 4 years: Not approved for use in this age group 1
- Pregnancy: Consult physician before use
- Patients on HIV medications (ritonavir) or ketoconazole: Should consult with healthcare provider before using 2
- Patients using other steroid medications: Should consult with healthcare provider before using 2
Patient Education Points
- Emphasize that regular, consistent use is necessary for optimal effect
- Inform patients that it may take several days to reach maximum effectiveness 2
- Advise against sharing the nasal spray bottle to prevent spreading germs 2
- Instruct patients not to spray the medication in eyes or mouth 2
- Clarify that this medication is not for treatment of asthma or cold symptoms 2
Storage and Handling
- Store at room temperature
- Keep away from direct heat and sunlight
- Discard after the labeled number of sprays has been used, even if the bottle still contains liquid
Once-daily dosing of fluticasone propionate has been shown to be as effective as twice-daily dosing of the same total dose, making it a convenient option for patients 3.