Fluticasone Inhaler — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Fluticasone Inhaler?
Fluticasone propionate is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) used as a preventer inhaler for asthma and COPD. This medication is funded by Pharmac for asthma and COPD.
What is Fluticasone Inhaler Used For?
Fluticasone is used as a preventer inhaler for persistent asthma (reducing inflammation, preventing symptoms and exacerbations), and in combination with long-acting bronchodilators for COPD management.
How Does Fluticasone Inhaler Work?
Fluticasone is a potent synthetic corticosteroid that, when inhaled, binds to glucocorticoid receptors in airway cells, reducing the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing airway inflammation, oedema, and mucus production over time. It does not relieve acute symptoms.
How to Take Fluticasone Inhaler
Taken regularly twice daily (or once daily at higher doses). Dose ranges from 50–500 mcg twice daily depending on asthma severity. Always rinse mouth and gargle after use to prevent oral thrush (candidiasis). Available as MDI (Flixotide®) or DPI (Flixotide Accuhaler®), and as combination inhalers with salmeterol (Seretide®).
Common Side Effects of Fluticasone Inhaler
- Oral candidiasis (thrush — rinse mouth after use to prevent)
- Hoarseness (dysphonia)
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Headache
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Adrenal suppression (with high doses and/or prolonged use — particularly in children)
- Reduced bone density (with high-dose long-term use)
- Cataract and glaucoma (rare — with high doses)
- Growth retardation in children (with high doses)
- Systemic corticosteroid effects at very high doses
Drug Interactions
Fluticasone Inhaler may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, ketoconazole — can significantly increase fluticasone systemic levels — risk of adrenal suppression and Cushing’s syndrome at high ICS doses)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Fluticasone propionate (Flixotide® 50, 125, 250, 500 mcg MDI; Flixotide Accuhaler® 50, 100, 250, 500 mcg DPI) is funded by Pharmac. The lowest effective dose should be used. Use of a spacer device improves delivery and reduces throat side effects. Annual review of asthma control and inhaler technique is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why must I rinse my mouth after using the preventer inhaler?
Inhaled corticosteroids can deposit in the mouth and throat, promoting overgrowth of the Candida fungus — causing oral thrush (white patches, soreness). Rinsing the mouth and gargling with water after each use washes away deposited medicine, greatly reducing this risk.
Will my preventer inhaler help immediately during an asthma attack?
No — inhaled corticosteroids are preventers that reduce inflammation over days to weeks. They will not relieve acute breathlessness. During an asthma attack, use your short-acting reliever (salbutamol) and seek emergency care if not improving.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: