Flunisolide Nasal Spray

What is this medication?

FLUNISOLIDE (floo NISS oh lide) treats allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or runny or stuffy nose. It works by decreasing inflammation in the nose, making it easier to breathe. It belongs to a group of medications called nasal steroids.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Nasalide, Nasarel

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Asthma
• Infection, such as tuberculosis, herpes, or fungal infection
• Recent surgery or injury of nose or sinuses
• Taking corticosteroids by mouth
• An unusual or allergic reaction to flunisolide, other corticosteroids, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use in the nose. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. You may need to use this medication for several days as prescribed before you start to feel better. Make sure that you are using your nasal spray correctly. Ask you care team if you have any questions.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed. This medication has been used in children as young as 6 years of age.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

• Mifepristone

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Barbiturate medications for inducing sleep or treating seizures
• Carbamazepine
• Phenytoin
• Rifampin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Check with your care team if your symptoms do not improve in 1 to 2 weeks of regular use.

Do not come in contact with people who have chickenpox or the measles while you are taking this medication. If you do, call your care team right away.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Crusting or sores inside the nose
• Frequent or severe nosebleeds
• Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness
• Sudden eye pain or change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
• Thrush—white patches in the nose or mouth
• Whistling through one or both nostrils that does not go away

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Change in sense of smell
• Change in taste
• Headache
• Irritation inside the nose or throat
• Nosebleed
• Sneezing

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from heat and light.

Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.