Read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with this product before you start using fluticasone and each time you get a refill. Read the patient instructions on how to use this inhaler properly. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Hold this device in a level, flat position. Inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day (in the morning and evening). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
It is important to inhale each dose deeply to get the right amount of drug into your lungs. You may or may not taste/feel the drug when you inhale. Either is normal. Do not breathe out (exhale) into the inhaler device.
If two inhalations are prescribed, wait at least one minute between them. If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait at least 1 minute between the use of each medication, and use this drug (the corticosteroid) last.
Gargle and rinse your mouth with water after each use to help prevent irritation and fungal/yeast infections (thrush) in the mouth and throat. Do not swallow the rinse water.
Do not take the inhaler apart or wash the mouthpiece or any part of the device. Close the device after each use.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. This medication works best if used at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this medication more often, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.
If you are regularly taking a different corticosteroid by mouth (such as prednisone), you should not stop taking it unless directed by your doctor. Some conditions (such as asthma, allergies) may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. If you suddenly stop taking the drug, you may also have withdrawal symptoms (such as weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness, dizziness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may slowly lower the dose of your old medication after you begin using fluticasone. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal. See also Precautions section.
It may take up to 2 weeks or longer before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Learn which of your inhalers you should use every day (controller drugs) and which you should use if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your doctor ahead of time what you should do if you have new or worsening cough or shortness of breath, wheezing, increased sputum, worsening peak flow meter readings, waking up at night with trouble breathing, if you use your quick-relief inhaler more often (more than 2 days a week), or if your quick-relief inhaler does not seem to be working well. Learn when you can treat sudden breathing problems by yourself and when you must get medical help right away.