Description

Fluticasone propionate belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids. It can help reduce inflammation. It is available as a cream or ointment, nasal spray, and inhaler. Due to this effect, people can use some form of fluticasone propionate to treat inflammatory skin conditions, allergies, or asthma.

Creams and ointments

Fluticasone propionate topical is a steroid medication used to treat different skin conditions. It is available in many different formulations, including a cream, ointment, and lotion. The typical directions are to apply a small amount of medication onto the skin one to two times a day, as directed by your provider. They help alleviate the inflammation and itching associated with inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis. While side effects are not common, it is possible to experience skin burning and itching when you use the medication. Fluticasone propionate topical is only available by prescription; it cannot be purchased over the counter.

Nasal spray

Nonprescription (over-the-counter) fluticasone nasal spray is used to relieve symptoms of rhinitis, such as sneezing and a runny, stuffy, or itchy nose and itchy, watery eyes caused by hay fever or other allergies (caused by an allergy to pollen, mold, dust, or pets). Prescription fluticasone nasal spray is used to relieve symptoms of nonallergic rhinitis, such as sneezing and runny or stuffy nose, which are not caused by allergies. Prescription fluticasone nasal spray (Xhance) is used to treat nasal polyps (swelling of the lining of the nose). This drug should not be used to treat symptoms (e.g., sneezing, stuffy, runny, itchy nose) caused by the common cold.

Inhaler

A person can also get fluticasone propionate as an inhaled medication for the treatment of asthma symptoms. These symptoms may include:

breathing difficulties

tightness in the chest

wheezing

coughing

As an inhaled medication, fluticasone propionate reduces the airways' inflammation, allowing air to pass in and out of the lungs more easily.

Side effects

The nasal spray and oral inhaler formulations have fewer corticosteroid side effects than the tablet formulation because they limit systemic (blood) absorption. However, systemic absorption is not negligible even with correct administration. Using the spray or inhaler at higher than recommended doses or with other corticosteroids can increase the risk for serious, systemic corticosteroid-induced side effects. These side effects include a weakened immune system, increased risk of systemic infections, osteoporosis, and elevated eye pressure.