Flovent is an inhaled medication used to control and prevent the symptoms of asthma including shortness of breath and wheezing by reducing swelling and inflammation of the lung airways. Fluticasone is a corticosteroid and should be used regularly in order to be effective. Flovent is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Flovent is typically taken two times a day, in the morning and the evening.
• Shake your inhaler well for five seconds before using.
• If this is your first time using Flovent, or if your inhaler has not been used in over a week, prime your inhaler by spraying it away from your face.
• Wait at least 30 seconds between inhalations of this inhaler or of other inhalers.
• After every use of Flovent, rinse your mouth with water without swallowing.
• Fluticasone should be used at evenly spaced times. Try to use this inhaler at the same time each day.
• It may take two weeks before you feel the full effects of Flovent.
• Young children may get better results using a spacer device and face mask.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history especially of glaucoma, cataracts, tuberculosis in your lungs, hereditary osteoporosis, liver disease, any untreated infection on your body or herpes eye infections.
• If you smoke or use tobacco.
• If you are pregnant or planning on pregnancy.

Other information you should also know:

• Flovent is not a rescue inhaler and shouldn’t be used to relieve an asthma attack.
• You should avoid people who have infections, especially measles and chickenpox if you have not been vaccinated or have not had these conditions.
• You should tell all of your doctors and dentists that you use Flovent or any other corticosteroid.
• Fluticasone may slow down children’s growth if taken over a long period of time.

Common side effects of Flovent:

• Headache.
• Painful white patches in your mouth or throat.
• Toothache.
• Sore or irritated throat.
• Fever.
• Ear infection.
• Hoarseness.

If you have any of the following fluticasone side effects, seek medical help:

• Shortness of breath.
• Coughing.
• Eye redness, pain or discomfort.
• Vision changes including seeing halos or bright colors around lights or blurred vision.
• Slowed growth in children.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Flovent?

If you miss a dose of Flovent, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

When should I take Flovent?

Flovent should be used at regularly spaced intervals. It is not a rescue inhaler and shouldn’t be used to relieve sudden shortness of breath.