Flovent (fluticasone propionate) for Asthma Treatment

Flovent (fluticasone propionate) is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces airway inflammation. It is used for long-term treatment of asthma in people 4 years of age and older. Flovent comes as a dry powder inhaler (Flovent Diskus) or a metered-dose inhaler (Flovent HFA).¹

Flovent prevents inflammation. During an acute asthma attack you should continue Flovent as instructed by your doctor. A rescue inhaler should be used in addition to Flovent during an acute attack to provide relief.

What are the ingredients in Flovent?

The active ingredient in Flovent is fluticasone propionate.¹

How does Flovent work?

Fluticasone propionate is a type of synthetic corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are natural chemicals in the body. They reduce inflammation in the airway by blocking the action of pro-inflammatory processes. This reduces symptoms of asthma, but it may take some time for symptoms to improve.¹

Fluticasone propionate activates a protein in your cells called a glucocorticoid receptor. After activation, these receptors increase anti-inflammatory proteins and chemicals in your body.^2,3

What are the possible side effects of Flovent?

Possible side effects of Flovent include:^2,3

• Allergic reactions
• Airway tightening and increased wheezing (bronchospasm)
• Low bone density
• Slow growth in children
• Eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts
• Upper respiratory infections
• Throat irritation
• Fever
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Ear infection

Inhaled corticosteroids like Flovent can cause thrush. This is a fungal infection in the mouth and throat. Rinsing your mouth and regularly cleaning your inhaler after inhaling Flovent can help prevent thrush. Contact your doctor if you notice symptoms of thrush, such as:^2,3

• Throat discomfort or pain
• Hoarse voice
• Red or white patches in your mouth

Corticosteroids can weaken your immune system. This makes you more likely to get an infection. Avoid contact with people who have chickenpox, measles, or other contagious diseases. Contact your doctor if you notice any symptoms of an infection, such as:^2,3

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Aches and pains
• Chills
• Nausea and vomiting

Flovent can also make current infections worse. Tell your doctor if you have any infections, including tuberculosis or herpes simplex virus.^2,3

Inhaled corticosteroids like Flovent taken along with oral corticosteroids can increase the risk of adrenal insufficiency. High doses of Flovent have an increased risk compared to low doses. Adrenal insufficiency is when your adrenal glands do not make enough steroid hormones. It can be life-threatening. Talk to your doctor if you notice symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, including:^2,3

• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Low blood pressure

These are not all the possible side effects of Flovent. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Flovent. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Flovent.

Things to know about Flovent

Take Flovent exactly as your doctor describes. They will show you how to use, store, and clean your inhaler.^2,3

Your doctor will determine your Flovent dosage based on your age and other medicines. You may not feel symptom relief for a few weeks after starting treatment. Once your asthma stabilizes, your doctor will lower your dose to reduce the risk of side effects.^1-3

If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, your doctor may increase your Flovent dosage. Do not stop taking Flovent unless your doctor tells you to. If you miss a dose, take your next scheduled dose when it is due.^2,3

Do not use Flovent if you have allergies to any ingredients. Do not use Flovent Diskus if you have allergies to milk proteins.^2,3

Flovent may worsen certain conditions or interfere with other medicines. Tell your doctor if you:^2,3

• Have had any problems with your liver, eyes, immune system, or bone health
• Have any current infections
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Before beginning treatment for asthma, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information of Flovent HFA and Flovent Diskus.