FLOMIST NASAL SPRAY

# Benzalkonium Chloride 0.01% w/v + Fluticasone 0.05% w/v ## SHORT DESCRIPTION Benzalkonium Chloride 0.01% w/v + Fluticasone 0.05% w/v is a **nasal formulation** combining an antiseptic preservative, benzalkonium chloride, with **fluticasone**, a corticosteroid. Fluticasone helps reduce inflammation, swelling and irritation inside the nose. It may be used in products intended to relieve symptoms associated with **allergic rhinitis and nasal inflammation**, depending on the specific product formulation and prescribing information. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps reduce **nasal inflammation** * Helps relieve nasal congestion associated with allergic rhinitis * May reduce sneezing and nasal irritation * Helps relieve a runny or stuffy nose * Fluticasone provides local anti-inflammatory activity * Benzalkonium chloride acts primarily as an antimicrobial preservative in many nasal formulations ## USES / INDICATIONS This formulation may be used for symptoms associated with: * **Allergic rhinitis** * Seasonal allergic rhinitis * Perennial allergic rhinitis * Nasal congestion * Sneezing * Runny or itchy nose * Nasal inflammation The exact approved indication depends on the specific product and formulation. **Note:** Benzalkonium chloride in this type of formulation is commonly included as a preservative and should not be considered the primary treatment for allergic rhinitis. ## HOW IT WORKS ### Fluticasone Fluticasone is a **corticosteroid**. When administered into the nose, it acts locally to reduce inflammatory responses associated with allergens. This decreases swelling and mucus production and helps relieve symptoms such as congestion, sneezing and runny nose. ### Benzalkonium Chloride Benzalkonium chloride is an **antimicrobial preservative** commonly used in nasal preparations to help prevent microbial contamination of the product. ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Use exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the specific product label. * If supplied as a nasal spray, gently shake the container if instructed. * Blow your nose gently before administration. * Keep your head upright or slightly forward. * Insert the nozzle into one nostril while closing the other nostril. * Spray while gently breathing in through the nose. * Repeat in the other nostril if prescribed. * Avoid spraying directly toward the nasal septum. * Do not exceed the recommended dose. The appropriate dose depends on the **age, indication and specific formulation**. Follow the product's dosing instructions rather than using a generalized dose. ### Important Fluticasone nasal preparations may require **regular use for several days** before maximum symptom relief is achieved. They are not intended to provide immediate relief like some decongestant nasal sprays. ## SIDE EFFECTS Common side effects may include: * Nasal irritation * Dryness of the nose * Sneezing * Headache * Sore throat * Unpleasant taste or smell * Nosebleed * Mild nasal discomfort ### Serious Side Effects Seek medical attention if you experience: * Severe or persistent nosebleeds * Nasal sores or ulcers * Blurred vision or other significant visual changes * Severe allergic reaction * Swelling of the face, lips or throat * Difficulty breathing * Signs of infection that do not improve Long-term or excessive corticosteroid exposure may rarely cause effects such as **glaucoma, cataracts, adrenal suppression or growth effects in children**. ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * Use only in the nose if this is the intended formulation. * Avoid spraying directly onto the nasal septum because this may increase irritation and nosebleeds. * Tell your doctor if you have recently had **nasal surgery, nasal injury or nasal ulcers**. * Inform your doctor if you have a current or recurrent nasal infection. * Tell your doctor if you have tuberculosis or another significant respiratory infection. * Prolonged use of corticosteroids may rarely increase the risk of certain infections. * Regularly monitor children using nasal corticosteroids for prolonged periods because corticosteroids can potentially affect growth. * Tell your doctor if you have **glaucoma or cataracts**. * Seek medical advice if you develop persistent nasal irritation or recurrent nosebleeds. * Do not share the nasal spray with another person. * If symptoms do not improve or become worse, consult your healthcare professional. * Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Fluticasone nasal preparations generally have limited systemic absorption, but interactions can occur, particularly with medicines that strongly inhibit CYP3A4. Important examples include: * **Ritonavir** * **Cobicistat** * **Ketoconazole** * **Itraconazole** * Other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors These medicines can increase systemic exposure to fluticasone and potentially increase corticosteroid-related adverse effects. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements you use. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep the product in its original packaging. * Store at the recommended room temperature. * Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. * Do not freeze unless specifically instructed. * Keep the bottle/container tightly closed when not in use. * Keep out of reach of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use if the container or spray mechanism is damaged. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Prescription status may vary depending on the country and specific product formulation.** Use this medicine according to the product label or the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE For safe and genuine Benzalkonium Chloride + Fluticasone nasal medicine: * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name and strength. * Verify the manufacturer's details. * Check the batch number and expiry date. * Confirm the expiry date before use. * Ensure the packaging and seal are intact. * Avoid products with damaged or suspicious packaging. * Do not purchase medicines from unauthorized sources. * Consult a pharmacist if you have concerns about product authenticity. ## FAQ ### What is Benzalkonium Chloride + Fluticasone used for? This nasal formulation may be used to help manage **nasal inflammation and symptoms of allergic rhinitis**, such as congestion, sneezing and a runny or itchy nose. ### What is Fluticasone? Fluticasone is a **corticosteroid** that reduces inflammation in the nasal passages. ### What is Benzalkonium Chloride used for in nasal spray? Benzalkonium chloride is commonly used as an **antimicrobial preservative** to help prevent contamination of multidose nasal preparations. ### Does Benzalkonium Chloride treat allergies? It is primarily included as a preservative in many nasal formulations. **Fluticasone is the active anti-inflammatory component responsible for controlling allergy-related nasal symptoms.** ### Is Fluticasone a steroid? Yes. Fluticasone is a **corticosteroid**, but when used as a nasal spray, its main effect is intended to occur locally in the nasal passages. ### What symptoms can Fluticasone nasal spray relieve? It can help relieve **nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose and nasal itching** associated with allergic rhinitis. ### How long does Fluticasone nasal spray take to work? Some improvement may occur within several hours to a few days, but maximum benefit may require **regular use over several days**. ### Can Fluticasone nasal spray be used every day? It may be used regularly when recommended for allergic rhinitis. Follow the specific product instructions and do not exceed the recommended dose. ### Can this medicine cause nosebleeds? Yes. **Nosebleeds and nasal irritation** are recognized side effects of intranasal corticosteroids. Correct spray technique can help reduce irritation. ### How can I reduce nosebleeds while using Fluticasone? Aim the spray slightly away from the nasal septum rather than directly toward the middle wall of the nose. If nosebleeds are frequent or severe, contact your healthcare professional. ### Can children use Fluticasone nasal spray? Some fluticasone nasal products are approved for children, but the permitted age and dosage vary by product. Use it in children only according to the product label or healthcare professional's advice. ### Can Fluticasone affect growth in children? Long-term corticosteroid exposure may potentially affect growth. Children using nasal corticosteroids for extended periods should use the lowest effective dose and may require growth monitoring. ### Can Fluticasone cause eye problems? Rarely, prolonged corticosteroid exposure may be associated with **glaucoma or cataracts**. Tell your doctor if you develop vision changes or have a history of these conditions. ### Can I use this medicine during pregnancy? Discuss its use with your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. Your doctor can determine whether the expected benefits outweigh potential risks. ### Can I use Fluticasone while breastfeeding? Discuss breastfeeding with your doctor before use. Intranasal fluticasone generally has low systemic exposure, but individual circumstances should be considered. ### Can I use Fluticasone with other allergy medicines? It may be used with certain antihistamines or other allergy treatments, but tell your healthcare professional about all medicines you are taking to avoid unnecessary duplication. ### Can I use this nasal spray with other steroid medicines? Tell your doctor if you use other corticosteroids, including inhaled, oral, topical or injectable steroids, because combined exposure may increase corticosteroid-related adverse effects. ### What should I do if I miss a dose? Use the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not use extra doses to compensate. ### Can I stop using Fluticasone suddenly? For a nasal product used at recommended doses, stopping is generally not associated with the same withdrawal concerns as long-term systemic corticosteroids. However, follow your healthcare professional's treatment plan. ### How should this nasal medicine be stored? Store according to the manufacturer's instructions, generally at room temperature away from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Keep the container closed and out of reach of children. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. **Benzalkonium Chloride 0.01% w/v + Fluticasone 0.05% w/v is a nasal formulation whose exact indication, dosage and regulatory status depend on the specific product.** Fluticasone is a corticosteroid and prolonged or excessive use may cause local or systemic adverse effects. Seek medical advice for persistent nosebleeds, nasal sores, vision changes, severe allergic reactions or worsening symptoms. Always follow the specific product label and your healthcare professional's instructions.