Fluticasone (inhaler/nasal): uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Fluticasone is an inhaled/nasal steroid for asthma and allergic rhinitis. It belongs to the Respiratory / cough & cold medicine group. These ease breathing, loosen mucus or calm a cough in chest and airway conditions.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Respiratory / cough & cold medicine
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Preventing asthma attacks (inhaler)
COPD in combination inhalers
Allergic rhinitis and nasal blockage (nasal spray)
Nasal polyps (nasal drops/spray)

Common brand names

India: Flohale, Flomist, Seroflo (with salmeterol)
Worldwide: Flovent, Flonase

Common side effects

Hoarseness or sore throat
Oral thrush
Nosebleeds or nasal dryness (spray)

Before taking it — precautions

Rinse your mouth after the inhaler
Use regularly; it may take days to work fully
Tell your doctor about HIV medicines like ritonavir or some antifungals, which raise steroid levels

When to see a doctor urgently

Asthma getting worse (urgent)
Severe allergy (urgent)
Blurred vision or frequent nosebleeds

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of fluticasone depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the nasal spray take to work?

Some relief may come within a day, but full benefit takes a few days of regular use.

Is it a steroid?

Yes, a corticosteroid, but inhaled or nasal forms act mainly where applied, with little reaching the body.

Can I use it in pregnancy?

Discuss with your doctor; inhaled steroids are often continued as uncontrolled asthma is riskier.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.