Fluticasone Propionate

Fluticasone Propionate is a corticosteroid medicine available in Bangladesh under many brand names. Below are its uses, dosage, side effects and precautions — and all brands with their current prices.

• Maintenance treatment to prevent symptoms of asthma when an inhaled corticosteroid is appropriate.
• Relief and prevention of symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, nasal itching, congestion, and runny nose.
• Short-term treatment of corticosteroid-responsive inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis, when prescribed.
• Some respiratory formulations may be prescribed for other airway inflammation conditions according to local product approval and specialist advice.

Dosage depends on the formulation, age, severity of disease, and response to treatment. Inhaled forms are usually used regularly as maintenance therapy, not for immediate relief of acute wheezing; a separate reliever inhaler may be needed if prescribed. Nasal spray should be used consistently with correct technique. Cream or ointment should be applied thinly to the affected area for the shortest duration needed, avoiding eyes, broken skin, and large areas unless directed. Follow the exact dose and duration given by the doctor.

• Inhaled forms: throat irritation, cough, hoarse voice, and oral thrush; rinsing the mouth after use may reduce thrush risk.
• Nasal spray: nasal irritation, dryness, sneezing, unpleasant taste or smell, and nosebleeds.
• Topical forms: burning, itching, dryness, skin thinning, stretch marks, and changes in skin colour, especially with prolonged or excessive use.
• Serious but uncommon: allergic reactions, worsening breathing or paradoxical bronchospasm after inhalation, adrenal suppression, slowed growth in children, glaucoma or cataracts, and increased risk of infections.

Use Fluticasone Propionate with caution in people with active or untreated infections, tuberculosis, recent nasal surgery or injury, eye problems such as glaucoma or cataracts, liver disease, or a history of sensitivity to corticosteroids. Topical use on the face, groin, underarms, or under occlusive dressings needs special care. Do not stop long-term corticosteroid treatment suddenly unless advised. Use this medicine under the guidance of a registered doctor or pharmacist.

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir, cobicistat, ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, and some HIV or hepatitis C medicines can increase fluticasone levels and raise the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects.
• Using multiple corticosteroids together, including tablets, injections, inhalers, nasal sprays, or skin preparations, may increase the risk of side effects.
• Tell the doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, and other inhalers or nasal sprays being used.

• Known hypersensitivity to fluticasone propionate or any component of the formulation.
• Inhaled formulations must not be used as the primary treatment for acute asthma attacks or status asthmaticus.
• Topical formulations should not be used on untreated bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic skin infections, or for conditions such as acne, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis unless specifically directed by a doctor.

During pregnancy or breastfeeding, Fluticasone Propionate should be used only when the expected benefit justifies any potential risk. Inhaled and nasal corticosteroids generally have low systemic absorption when used correctly, but the lowest effective dose is preferred. For topical use, avoid prolonged use, large areas, and application to the breast before nursing unless advised by a doctor.

Store at room temperature, away from excessive heat, direct sunlight, and moisture. Keep inhalers, nasal sprays, nebuliser solutions, creams, and ointments tightly closed when not in use and out of reach of children. Do not puncture or burn aerosol containers, and follow the product label for any specific storage instructions.