What is the use of Fluticasone (inhalation corticosteroid)?

From the Guidelines

Fluticasone is a highly effective medication for treating allergic rhinitis and asthma, and its use is recommended as a first-line treatment for these conditions. The medication is available in several forms, including nasal sprays and inhalers, and works by reducing inflammation in the affected tissues. According to a study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 1, intranasal corticosteroids like fluticasone are the most effective medications for treating allergic rhinitis, and are more effective than the combined use of an antihistamine and a leukotriene antagonist.

Key Points to Consider

• The typical adult dose of fluticasone for allergic rhinitis is 1-2 sprays in each nostril daily, while asthma treatment usually requires 88-440 mcg inhaled twice daily depending on severity 1.
• Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation by suppressing the immune response in affected tissues, and decreases the production of inflammatory chemicals and prevents the recruitment of inflammatory cells.
• Side effects may include nasal irritation, headache, and in inhaled forms, oral thrush which can be prevented by rinsing the mouth after use.
• Fluticasone is not for immediate symptom relief, but works gradually over days to weeks for optimal effect.
• It's generally safe for long-term use under medical supervision, though regular monitoring is recommended, especially at higher doses 1.

Important Considerations for Use

• Patients should continue taking fluticasone regularly as prescribed, even after symptoms improve, to maintain control of the underlying condition.
• The medication can be used in combination with other therapies, such as antihistamines and leukotriene antagonists, for optimal effect 1.
• However, the combination of intranasal and inhaled glucocorticosteroids (fluticasone) may be needed to control seasonal increases in nasal and asthmatic symptoms 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, USP, is indicated for the management of the nasal symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic and nonallergic rhinitis in adults and pediatric patients 4 years of age and older. The use of Fluticasone (inhalation corticosteroid) is for the management of nasal symptoms of:

• Seasonal allergic rhinitis
• Perennial allergic rhinitis
• Nonallergic rhinitis in adults and pediatric patients 4 years of age and older 2.

From the Research

Use of Fluticasone

The use of Fluticasone, an inhalation corticosteroid, is primarily for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. The key benefits and applications of Fluticasone are outlined below:

• Treatment of Allergic Rhinitis: Fluticasone is effective in controlling nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis, including seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
• Administration and Dosage: Fluticasone can be administered intranasally, once daily, at various doses, including 100 micrograms, 200 micrograms, and 110 micrograms for fluticasone furoate 3, 4, 5, 7.
• Efficacy and Safety: Studies have shown that Fluticasone is well-tolerated and has a good safety profile, with minimal systemic exposure and no significant adverse effects on adrenal function 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
• Comparison with Other Treatments: Fluticasone has been compared to other treatments, such as beclomethasone dipropionate, flunisolide acetonide, and oral antihistamines, and has shown similar or better efficacy in controlling nasal symptoms 3.
• Onset of Action: The onset of action for Fluticasone furoate nasal spray has been observed to be as early as 8 hours after the first dose 5.
• Pediatric Use: Fluticasone has been shown to be effective and well-tolerated in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis, with a recommended dose of 100 micrograms or 200 micrograms once daily 7.