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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using fluticasone nasal (Flonase, Veramyst)?

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have been sick or had an infection of any kind. You may not be able to use fluticasone nasal until you are well.

Also tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• glaucoma or cataracts;
• liver disease;
• herpes simplex virus of your eyes;
• tuberculosis or any other infection or illness;
• sores or ulcers inside your nose; or
• if you have recently had injury of or surgery on your nose.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether fluticasone nasal is harmful to an unborn baby. Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether fluticasone passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use fluticasone nasal without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medication to a child younger than 4 years old without the advice of a doctor. Steroid medicines can affect growth in children. Talk with your doctor if you think your child is not growing at a normal rate while using fluticasone nasal.

How should I use fluticasone nasal (Flonase, Veramyst)?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

The usual dose of fluticasone nasal is 1 to 2 sprays into each nostril once per day.

Before using the spray for the first time, you must prime the spray pump. Shake the medicine well and spray 6 test sprays into the air and away from your face. Prime the spray pump any time you have not used your nasal spray for longer than 30 days, or if you have left the cap off for 5 days or longer. Spray until a fine mist appears.

Shake the medicine bottle well just before each use.

It may take up to several days of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after a week of treatment.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects on your nose or sinuses, your doctor will need to check your progress on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store this medication in an upright position at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Throw the medication away after you have used 120 sprays, even if there is still medicine left in the bottle.

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