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What is Fluticasone Propionate HFA?
Fluticasone propionate HFA is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways. It helps prevent asthma attacks by keeping the airways open and expanded, making it easier to breathe. Over time, regular use of fluticasone can also decrease the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations.
This medication comes in an inhaler device that creates a fine spray or mist. When you inhale the spray by mouth, the drug particles travel deep into your lungs, allowing the medication to act directly where it's needed most. Your doctor can show you the proper technique for using your inhaler.
Fluticasone is not meant to treat sudden asthma attacks. For quick relief, you'll still need a fast-acting rescue inhaler. However, using fluticasone as prescribed can reduce your need for emergency inhalers over time.
If you require fluticasone propionate as part of your asthma treatment, using an online Canadian pharmacy like My Drug Center can help you save up to 90% on this medication.
How Does Fluticasone Propionate Work?
Fluticasone is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid medication. Corticosteroids are synthetic substances like cortisol, a natural hormone produced in the adrenal glands.
Fluticasone belongs to a class of corticosteroids known as inhaled corticosteroids. When inhaled, Fluticasone goes directly to the lungs and airways to decrease inflammation, which improves asthma symptoms.
How to Use Fluticasone Propionate HFA
Before using the fluticasone HFA, it's important to ensure that it is at room temperature. If you haven't used this inhaler before or if it has been more than seven days since your last use, you will need to prime the inhaler. Follow these steps to properly prime the inhaler:
- Remove the cap from the inhaler and give it a good shake for about five seconds.
- Aim the inhaler away from your face and press the canister to release one spray.
- Repeat this process two more times for a total of three sprays.
Once the inhaler is primed and ready for use, follow these steps to take Fluticasone HFA correctly:
- Shake the inhaler for five seconds to ensure the medication is well-mixed, then remove the mouthpiece cover.
- Breathe out fully, expelling as much air from your lungs as possible.
- Place the mouthpiece between your lips, making sure to form a tight seal around it.
- Press down firmly on the top of the canister to release the medication, while simultaneously taking a slow and deep breath in. This allows the medication to reach your lungs effectively.
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds to allow the medication to be absorbed, and then exhale slowly.
- To minimize the risk of developing a yeast infection in your mouth, rinse your mouth with water after each use. Remember not to swallow the water.
If you’re uncertain about any of these steps, contact your doctor or pharmacist for a step-by-step demonstration of the proper usage of fluticasone propionate HFA.
Fluticasone Propionate Side Effects
Common side effects of fluticasone HFA include:
- Hoarseness of your voice
- Throat irritations
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- White patches in your mouth
- Stuffy nose
- Sinus pain
- Cough
- Deepened voice
While less common, some serious side effects may occur with fluticasone HFA. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat)
- Vision problems
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Easy bruising
- Mood changes
- Bone pain
FAQs
Does fluticasone propionate replace my rescue inhaler?
Fluticasone propionate is often prescribed to control asthma symptoms long-term. While it is an effective controller medication, it does not provide immediate relief for sudden asthma attacks. For that reason, it should not be used as a rescue inhaler to treat sudden breathing problems.
Instead, fluticasone works by reducing inflammation in the lungs over time. This helps prevent asthma attacks from occurring in the first place. But it can take days or weeks to reach full effect. When asthma symptoms flare up quickly, a fast-acting bronchodilator is needed to open the airways right away.
Does fluticasone propionate HFA contain lactose?
The fluticasone propionate HFA inhaler does not contain lactose, so people with milk allergies can safely use it.
However, the fluticasone propionate Diskus inhaler does contain lactose. If you have a severe allergy to milk proteins, you should not use the Diskus inhaler, as it could cause an allergic reaction.
How long does it take for Fluticasone propionate HFA to work?
Once you begin fluticasone treatment, it can take time for the medication to fully take effect and open your airways. Do not expect instant relief or results. It often takes one to two weeks of regular use, sometimes longer, before you notice major improvements in your breathing and asthma symptoms. Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation in the lungs and airways over time.
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