Side effects from fluticasone may depend on the form, dose, and the individual. They may range from a runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes to skin scaling, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Fluticasone is a corticosteroid medication used to treat symptoms related to an overactive immune response from various conditions like allergies and asthma. Corticosteroids are steroid medications that mimic the effects of the stress hormone cortisol.

It’s available in generic and brand-name, over-the-counter (OTC), and prescription forms.

One of the most common brands of fluticasone is Flonase nasal spray.

Keep reading to learn more about the different types of fluticasone and their side effects, precautions to take when using these medications, safety tips, and when to talk with a doctor about your symptoms.

Warning: When to seek emergency care

Medications, including fluticasone, can cause allergic reactions that require emergency medical care. If you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, contact 911 or your local emergency services.

Symptoms may include:

  • facial swelling
  • throat or tongue swelling
  • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • wheezing
  • severe skin rash
  • itching
  • asthma symptoms that don’t improve
  • severe nosebleeds
  • weakness

Fluticasone is available in several different forms.

The dosage and strength depend on the form of fluticasone. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information on specific brands.

Topical (cream, ointment, lotion)

Other forms of fluticasone topical may be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. Corticosteroids help calm skin reactions such as skin discoloration, itching, scaling, and irritation.

Examples include:

  • fluticasone propionate cream (Cutivate cream)
  • fluticasone propionate lotion (Cutivate lotion)
  • fluticasone propionate ointment (Cutivate ointment)

Oral (inhalation powder)

Fluticasone is also used alone or in combination with other medications to treat symptoms of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This causes wheezing, shortness of breath, and inflammation of the airways, making it hard to breathe.

Examples include:

Nasal (spray)

Fluticasone is available over the counter as a nasal spray to treat symptoms of hay fever or allergic rhinitis, such as:

  • runny nose
  • sneezing
  • swelling of the nasal passages
  • itchy, watery eyes

Examples include:

  • fluticasone propionate (XHANCE, Flonase Nasal Spray, Flonase Allergy Relief)
  • fluticasone furoate (Flonase Sensimist Allergy Relief)

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Generally, corticosteroids like fluticasone have a greater risk of more serious side effects when taken orally or injected compared to topical, nasal, or inhaled forms.

Keep in mind, this isn’t a full list of possible side effects. It’s best to talk with your pharmacist or a doctor about any specific side effects or other concerns about fluticasone.

Fluticasone nasal spray

Fluticasone can potentially cause side effects that range from common to rare.

Common side effects

Serious side effects

  • symptoms of infection (fever, or a temperature that exceeds 99 to 99.5°F (37.2 to 37.5°C) for adults, chills, sore throat, etc.)
  • hoarseness
  • nosebleeds
  • severe skin rash
  • trouble breathing or swallowing
  • thick nasal discharge
  • wheezing
  • slow wound healing
  • tiredness and muscle weakness
  • tear in your nasal cartilage (septum), which can cause bleeding, whistling, or a runny nose

Rare side effects

Research shows incorrect use of fluticasone nasal spray can impact effectiveness and compliance and lead to side effects. Ask your pharmacist the correct technique for using your specific nasal spray.

Side effects of oral fluticasone

Common side effects can include:

  • cough
  • throat irritation and hoarseness
  • thrush (rinse your mouth after using your inhaler to lower the risk of this issue)
  • dry mouth
  • headache
  • changes in smell or taste
  • stomach problems
  • irregular heart rate
  • nausea or vomiting
  • tiredness
  • joint pain or back pain

More serious side effects can include:

  • fever or infection
  • pneumonia, with an increased risk at high doses
  • unexplained changes in weight
  • increased blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia)
  • white patches in the mouth
  • fainting
  • coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness
  • noisy, high-pitched breathing
  • hives or rash
  • fast, or irregular heartbeat

Using these medications a longer period of time increases the risk of side effects.

Side effects of fluticasone topical

Common side effects can include:

  • sun sensitivity (wear protective clothing, sunscreen)
  • burning, irritation, itching, or dryness
  • acne
  • blisters and skin discoloration
  • bumps on the skin or around the mouth
  • thinning of skin and skin changes, including the risk of injury, infection, or bruising
  • blotchy skin or patches on the skin
  • increased hair growth (body and face)
  • stretch marks

Serious side effects can include:

  • severe rash
  • hives
  • skin infection (skin discoloration, swelling, warmth where you applied the medication)

Follow these precautions when taking fluticasone:

  • For topical products, always wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Do not cover the affected area unless your doctor tells you to do so.
  • Rinse your mouth after using an inhaler.
  • Let your doctor know if you have unusual changes in taste or smell when using this medication.
  • Do not share your medication with anyone. Use it exactly as your doctor tells you.
  • Ask your pharmacist how to use the medication properly and about specific side effects. If this medication isn’t used correctly, it will not be effective.

Warning

In case of accidental poisoning or overdose, call the Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222, or seek emergency help immediately.

Let your doctor know if your symptoms don’t improve or get worse after a few weeks on fluticasone or if you have any of these:

  • eye problems like glaucoma or cataracts
  • liver disease, which may need monitoring
  • exposure to chickenpox or measles
  • an infection (viral, bacterial, or fungal)
  • taking medication for an infection
  • problems with your immune system
  • surgery of the nose
  • injury or sores
  • pregnant or breastfeeding
  • taking HIV or antifungal medications
  • thyroid problems
  • bone-related problems
  • diabetes
  • reduced circulation

Even though some forms of fluticasone are available over the counter, make sure to talk with a doctor about any other conditions or allergies to any medications you may have before taking it. Even OTC medications can interact with other medications you may be taking.

If you have serious side effects, such as an allergic reaction, get emergency medical attention.

If fluticasone doesn’t resolve your symptoms or if you experience mild to moderate side effects while taking it, it’s best to talk with a doctor, especially if these side effects worsen or don’t improve in a few days.

It’s also best to talk with a doctor if you may have additional risk factors due to your age or pregnancy status, or you have other health conditions.

Certain medications

If you are taking certain medications that may potentially interact with fluticasone, it’s best to talk with a doctor before use. These can include:

  • medications for HIV
  • steroid medications for asthma, allergies, or skin rash
  • medication for a fungal infection

Pregnancy

The risk of using fluticasone in pregnancy isn’t known. It might be necessary for you to take fluticasone even during pregnancy.

Talk with your doctor about the benefits of using fluticasone versus any potential risks to you and your baby.

Nursing

It isn’t known if inhaled, nasal, or topical fluticasone passes into breast milk.

Ask your doctor about any risks before using fluticasone while nursing.

Children

The safety of fluticasone use in children under 4 years of age hasn’t been determined.

There’s a risk corticosteroids may slow growth in children with regular use. The risk is higher with oral or injectable corticosteroids.

If your child is taking fluticasone, the doctor will likely monitor their growth.

Older adults

Anyone with kidney, liver, or heart problems, a weakened immune system, or who has an increased risk of infections may need special monitoring while using corticosteroids. Depending on the type, dose, and amount of time fluticasone is used, your doctor will discuss the risks of using the medication.

In some people, there’s a greater risk of side effects with topical fluticasone because the skin may be thin or damaged. It’s best to limit use and only when the benefits outweigh the risks.

Find a medical specialist in your area today

Your healthcare team may comprise several people who can provide support.

Sometimes, a medical specialist will be required to help diagnose, manage, or treat a healthcare condition.

You can find the following medical specialists in your area today:

Fluticasone is a popular medication used to treat many types of immune-related conditions. It is available in several different forms, including the popular OTC brand Flonase. It’s available alone or in combination with other medications.

Side effects depend on combinations, dose, frequency of use, and individual reactions.

You may experience some mild side effects when you first start using the medication. If they don’t go away after a few days or get worse, it’s best talk with your pharmacist or doctor about other medications that might help with your symptoms.

This might include nonsteroid medication options.

Fluticasone nasal spray can sometimes worsen asthma symptoms, like wheezing or shortness of breath. Ask your doctor about other medications you can take instead for nasal allergies.