Description

What do fluticasone inhalers do?

Fluticasone inhalers put the medicine straight into the lungs. Doctors may prescribe them for regular treatment to control airways’ inflammation. Fluticasone may be available alone or with another medicine, depending on the product.

Therefore, patients should use the inhaler directed to them and follow the instructions given by their healthcare professional.

### What Are Fluticasone Inhalers For?

The primary use of inhaled fluticasone is to prevent asthma symptoms. It may help to reduce airway inflammation and make breathing easier in the long run. Inhaled fluticasone is also used in some people with COPD.

However, fluticasone is a preventer inhaler, not a quick relief medicine. It does not provide quick relief during an asthma attack. During an acute attack, the patient should use an appropriate reliever inhaler as prescribed by their doctor.

How Fluticasone Inhalers Work

Fluticasone is a steroid that reduces inflammation in the airways. So the air passages may be less irritated and symptoms may be less frequent. But the medicine doesn’t work right away.

Some people notice a change within a few days, but it can take some time to feel the full effect. Hence it is important to use regularly as per prescribed schedule.

How To Use Your Fluticasone Inhaler

Always follow the instructions given with your specific inhaler. Different devices need different techniques. Your doctor, your chemist or a respiratory professional can show you the right technique.

If your metered dose inhaler has a dose counter, keep track of your doses. Don’t increase the dose or change the treatment schedule without professional advice.

Some inhaled corticosteroid products can cause mouth and throat problems. Rinse your mouth and spit out the water to help. Follow the directions for your specific product.

What are common side effects?

Like all medicines, Fluticasone inhalers can have side effects. Some people may develop a sore throat, hoarseness or oral thrush. Proper inhaler technique and following the mouth-rinsing instructions may help reduce some local side effects.

Also, inform your doctor if the symptoms persist or become troublesome. If your breathing gets worse quickly after you take the medicine, you should seek medical attention quickly.

FAQs

Are Fluticasone Inhalers Steroids?

Yes. Fluticasone is an inhaled steroid. It helps reduce inflammation in the airways and helps prevent symptoms associated with asthma and certain cases of COPD.

Do inhalers help prevent asthma attacks?

No. Fluticasone is used mainly as a preventer and is not going to help you in a sudden attack of asthma. Take your prescribed rescue medicine as directed in your asthma action plan.

How fast does fluticasone work?

Fluticasone is not a fast-acting one. Some people start feeling better in a few days, but the full effect can take longer.

Can I stop taking fluticasone once I feel better?

Do not stop or change your treatment without talking to your health care professional. Because fluticasone works by reducing inflammation in the airways, stopping treatment without medical advice can lead to symptoms returning.

Summary

Inhalers containing fluticasone can be important in controlling inflammation of the airways and preventing the symptoms of asthma. Furthermore, proper inhaler technique and regular use may improve the effectiveness of treatment. But each inhaler and each patient is different. So take your prescribed product exactly as directed and ask a doctor or pharmacist if you have any enquiries about your treatment.