Marketed internationally as Flonase by GSK, the same product is available, made by the same company, without prescription here in New Zealand under the brand name, FLIXONASE 24 HOUR.

In other words Flonase and Flixonase 24 Hour are identical in every way except for the brand name.

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR™ (Pharmacist Only Medicine)

Fluticasone propionate 50mcg per actuation, Aqueous Nasal Spray.

Please read this web page carefully before using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR.

This page answers some common questions about FLIXONASE 24 HOUR.

This page does not replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist, nor does it contain all the available information about this medicine.

All medicines have risks and benefits. Sometimes new risks are found even when a medicine has been used for many years.

If you have any concerns about using this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is used for:

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR contains an active ingredient called fluticasone propionate, which treats inflamed tissue. The tiny amounts sprayed into your nose help to reduce swelling and irritation. This makes breathing easier.

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is for the short term prevention and treatment of seasonal allergies, including hayfever in adults and children aged 12 years and over.

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR helps to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies including itchy and/or runny nose, nasal congestion, and also irritated eyes.

In most cases, FLIXONASE 24 HOUR will control your seasonal allergy symptoms, however in some instances you may need additional therapy, especially to control eye symptoms.

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR works more effectively if used on a daily basis, even if your seasonal allergy or hayfever symptoms have reduced. If FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is used on an irregular basis, for example every 4-5 days, it will not be as effective.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is non-drowsy and not addictive.

Before you use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR:

When you must not use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR

• Do not use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR if you have ever had an allergic reaction to fluticasone propionate, an allergic reaction to any corticosteroid or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this web page.

Read the side effects section to find out the symptoms of an allergic reaction to FLIXONASE 24 HOUR.

• Do not use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding, unless your doctor or pharmacist says you should.

• Do not use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the pack.

If you use the product after the expiry date has passed, it may not work as well.

• Do not use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering.

If you're not sure whether you should be using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Before you start using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR:

You must tell your doctor or pharmacist if you:

• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant

• Are breastfeeding

• Have recently had nasal ulcers, injury or surgery to your nose

• Have a tendency towards nose bleeds

• Have a nasal or sinus infection

• Are under 12 years of age

• Have been treated with steroid injections, taken steroid tablets, used steroid asthma or nasal inhalers or eye/nose drops

• You are allergic to foods, dyes, preservatives or any other medicine

Taking other medicines

• Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including medicines you buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

Some medicines may affect the way other medicines work. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to tell you what to do when using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR with other medicines.

Use in children

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is not recommended for use in patients under 12 years of age.

How to use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR:

Before using

If your FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is new or has not been used for a few days, it may not work the first time. You may need to ‘prime’ the bottle by pumping the spray unit a few times until a fine mist is produced.

Dosage

In adults and children over 12 years of age: Two sprays into each nostril once a day, preferably in the morning, unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you otherwise.

Your doctor or pharmacist will advise you what to do if only one nostril is affected.

The maximum amount of sprays per day must not be more than 2 sprays (200 mcg) into each nostril. (No more than a total of 4 sprays)

You may not feel the maximum benefit from your medicine straight away, but it is important that you continue to use it daily. It may take a few days until you get maximum relief from your medicine. Seek medical advice if nasal symptoms are not relieved after 7 days of treatment.

Using the Spray

1. Shake the bottle and remove the dust cap.

2. Blow your nose gently.

3. Close one nostril by holding a finger against the side of the nose, hold the bottle and put the nozzle in the other nostril. Tilt your head forward slightly and keep the bottle upright.

4. Start to breathe in slowly through your nose. While you are breathing in, squirt a spray of fine mist into your nostril by pressing down firmly on the collar of the bottle with your fingers.

5. Breathe out through your mouth. Repeat step 4 to take a second spray in the same nostril.

6. Remove the nozzle from this nostril and breathe out through your mouth.

7. Repeat steps 3 to 6 for the other nostril.

8. After using the spray, wipe the nozzle carefully with a clean tissue or handkerchief and replace the dust cap.

How long do I need to use the product for?

Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you how long to use your FLIXONASE 24 HOUR for. Do not use the spray for more than 6 months without the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.

If you forget to use the spray

If you miss a dose just use the next one when it is due. Do not use a double dose to make up for the one that you missed.

While you are using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR:

Things you must do:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR if you are about to be started on any new medicines.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if, for any reason, you have not used your medicine exactly as recommended, otherwise, your doctor or pharmacist may think that it was not effective and change your treatment unnecessarily.

Use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR only in your nose.

Things you must not do:

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if his or her symptoms seem similar to yours.

Do not use FLIXONASE 24 HOUR to treat any other conditions unless advised by your doctor to do so.

Side-Effects:

Check with your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you have any problems while using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR, even if you do not think the problems are connected with the medicine or are not listed in this web page.

Like other medicines, FLIXONASE 24 HOUR can cause some side effects. If they occur, they are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and need medical attention.

The most commonly reported side-effects are:

• sneezing

• irritation or dryness in the nose or throat

• bad taste or smell

• nose bleed

• skin rash

• Swelling of the face or tongue

Rare side effects include:

• wheezing and shortness of breath

• breakdown of tissue inside the nose (nasal septal perforation)

If any of these side effects persist, or are troublesome, see your doctor or pharmacist.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to answer any questions you may have.

If you think you are having an allergic (hypersensitivity) reaction to FLIXONASE 24 HOUR, TELL YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY or go to the emergency department at your nearest hospital.

Symptoms usually include some or all of the following:

• wheezing

• swelling of the lips/mouth

• difficulty in breathing

• hay fever

• lumpy rash ("hives")

• fainting

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything else that is making you feel unwell, even if it is not on this list.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don’t understand anything on this list.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything else that is making you feel unwell, even if it is not on this list.

Do not be alarmed by this list of possible side effects. These are rare and you may not experience any of them.

After using FLIXONASE 24 HOUR:

Storage
Keep this medicine where young children cannot reach it.

A locked cupboard at least one-and-a half metres (5 feet) above the ground is a good place to store medicines.

Store your FLIXONASE 24 HOUR upright below 25°C (77°F)

Protect the bottle from direct sunlight.

Do not put the bottle in the refrigerator, or store the medicine in the bathroom. Do not leave the spray bottle in the car or on window sills.

Heat and dampness can destroy some medicines.

Keep your product in its pack until it is time to use it.

If you take the product out of its packaging it may not keep well.

Ingredients
FLIXONASE 24 HOUR contains the active ingredient fluticasone propionate. The Product also contains the following inactive ingredients:

Dextrose (anhydrous), microcrystalline cellulose and carboxymethylcellulose sodium, phenylethyl alcohol, benzalkonium chloride, polysorbate 80, dilute hydrochloric acid and purified water.

Click here to buy Flonase (Flixonase) online

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR is supplied by:
Glaxo Wellcome New Zealand Limited
Quay Tower
Cnr Albert and Customs St
Private Bag 106600
Downtown Auckland
New Zealand

The information provided applies only to FLIXONASE 24 HOUR™.

FLIXONASE 24 HOUR™ is a trademark of the Glaxo Wellcome Group of Companies.