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Flovent vs Flonase
Introduction
For patients with asthma or other forms of respiratory allergies, certain drugs that alter the inflammation response in the airways can help manage symptoms and stabilize breathing. Flovent and Flonase are two such drugs that are prescribed for these conditions. Both contain fluticasone as an active ingredient but have different applications due to their delivery methods and target areas within the body. Flovent is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) designed to reduce inflammation in the lungs, making it a long-term treatment option for controlling persistent asthma. Conversely, Flonase is a nasal spray meant primarily for treating allergic rhinitis by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages; this makes it effective at relieving hay fever-like symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and eye irritation.
Flovent vs Flonase Side By Side
| Attribute | Flovent | Flonase |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Flovent | Flonase |
| Contraindications | Worsening symptoms after use, taking or have been taking systemic steroids without healthcare provider supervision | Worsening symptoms after use, taking or have been taking systemic steroids without healthcare provider supervision |
| Cost | Around $240 for 120 doses (44 mcg per spray) | Around $22 for 120 sprays (50 mcg per spray) |
| Generic Name | Fluticasone Propionate | Fluticasone Furoate |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Signs of allergic reaction, vision problems, increased heart rate, shortness of breath, symptoms indicating reduced potassium levels, signs of hormonal imbalance | Signs of allergic reaction, severe skin reactions, wounds that will not heal, blurred vision or other eye problems, flu-like symptoms, unusual behavior changes |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Not specified, but caution advised with systemic steroids | Not specified, but caution advised with systemic steroids |
| Typical Dose | 88-880 mcg/day for adults and adolescents; 44 mcg twice daily for children aged 4 to 11 | 2 sprays in each nostril once daily totaling 200 mcg/day, can decrease to 1 spray in each nostril per day for maintenance |
What is Flovent?
Fluticasone propionate, the active ingredient in both Flovent and Flonase, is a corticosteroid that helps to reduce inflammation. However, these medications are designed for different applications. Flovent was first approved by the FDA in 1990 and this inhaler medication is primarily used as a long-term treatment for asthma to prevent breathing problems. It works directly in the lungs to make breathing easier by reducing swelling and irritation of the airways.
On the other hand, Flonase which was approved by FDA later in 1994 is used as a nasal spray to treat symptoms such as stuffy or runny nose caused by seasonal allergies or perennial allergic rhinitis (year-round allergies). In comparison with Flovent's specific action on lungs, Flonase acts locally within your nasal passages.
Both drugs have their potential side effects like throat irritation or nosebleeds but generally they occur less frequently due to their respective localized actions: Flovent acting mainly on lung tissue while flonase being limited mostly within nasal passages. But it should be noted that neither drug provides immediate relief from bronchospasm or acute allergy symptoms because they work over time to control inflammation.
What conditions is Flovent approved to treat?
Flovent and Flonase are approved for managing different conditions:
- Flovent is used as a maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged four years and older. It helps to prevent asthma attacks but does not treat an attack that has already started.
- Flonase, on the other hand, is used to ease allergy symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy nose, runny nose, itching of the nose and watery/itchy/red eyes. This medication can be used by individuals who are 4 years old or more.
How does Flovent help with these illnesses?
Flovent helps to manage asthma by reducing inflammation in the airways of the lungs. It does this by delivering a corticosteroid, fluticasone propionate, directly to the inflamed areas. Corticosteroids are hormones that can suppress immune responses and decrease inflammation. Inflammation is part of the body's natural response to injury or irritation and it results in swelling, redness, heat, and pain - all of which can narrow the airways in people with asthma making breathing difficult. Therefore, by reducing inflammation using Flovent, patients can manage their condition and maintain better control over their breathing.
Flonase on the other hand also contains fluticasone propionate but it is used as a nasal spray for managing symptoms related to allergic rhinitis such as stuffy nose, sneezing, itching eyes/nose/throat etc., not for treating asthma like Flovent does.
What is Flonase?
Flonase, also known as fluticasone propionate, is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages. It works by mimicking the effects of cortisol, a hormone produced naturally in the body. Flonase was first approved by the FDA in 1990 and is used primarily to treat symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes/nose/throat. Unlike Flovent which contains fluticasone furoate and mainly targets asthma treatment via inhalation to reduce inflammation in airways for better breathing; Flonase is administered nasally targeting directly at nasal allergy symptoms. Its side-effect profile differs from that of systemic steroids because its application focuses on local areas (nasal passage), thereby reducing potential whole-body side-effects like weight gain or mood changes seen commonly with systemic steroid use. The targeted effect can be beneficial for treating common allergies especially when typical antihistamines fall short.
What conditions is Flonase approved to treat?
Flonase is a nasal spray that's approved for the treatment of:
- Allergic and non-allergic rhinitis
- Nasal symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, runny nose and itchy or watery eyes associated with seasonal or year-round allergies
- Sinus inflammation caused by allergies
How does Flonase help with these illnesses?
Fluticasone is a type of corticosteroid which reduces inflammation in the body, and it's the active ingredient in both Flovent and Flonase. However, these two medications are used to treat different conditions. Flonase primarily targets nasal symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, runny nose or itchy eyes caused by seasonal or year-round allergies. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages thereby providing relief from allergy symptoms. The action of fluticasone on multiple inflammatory substances may also play roles in making Flonase an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis. Because it acts specifically on nasal tissues without significantly affecting other systems in the body, Flonase can be a good option when patients do not respond well to typical antihistamines or if combined with them for more severe symptoms.
How effective are both Flovent and Flonase?
Both fluticasone propionate (Flovent) and fluticasone furoate (Flonase) are corticosteroids that have proven effective in managing asthma and allergic rhinitis symptoms, respectively. They were approved by the FDA just a few years apart, with Flovent gaining approval in 1996 and Flonase in 2000. Their mechanisms of action involve reducing inflammation but do so at different locations within the body.
A direct comparison of Flovent's and Flonase's effectiveness was not found as they are typically used to treat different conditions; however, both have demonstrated effectiveness within their respective use cases. For instance, studies showed patients using Flovent had improved control over asthma symptoms compared to those taking only short-acting bronchodilators.
In terms of side effects, both medications share common ones such as headache or throat irritation due to their similar active ingredients. However, each medication may exhibit unique side effects due to its specific application: for example, nasal dryness might be more commonly associated with Flonase while oral thrush could be linked more frequently with Flovent usage.
Reviews on these medications report that they're generally well-tolerated among various populations including children—with proper dosing adjustments. Despite being from the same drug class, they serve distinct roles: Flovent is primarily utilized for long-term maintenance therapy in treating persistent asthma whereas Flonase is mostly used for relieving nasal allergies' symptoms.
Lastly while no research has directly compared efficacy between these two drugs—due to differing indications—it’s important to note that neither one substitutes for the other given their targeted areas of treatment within the respiratory system.
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At what dose is Flovent typically prescribed?
Inhaled dosages of Flovent for asthma treatment in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older range from 88-880 mcg/day, but studies have indicated that two inhalations of 88 mcg each per day are sufficient for managing most cases. Children between the ages of 4 to 11 may be started on two inhalations of 44 mcg each per day. In either population, dosage can be increased after a few weeks if there is no response. The maximum dosage that should not be exceeded in any case is four inhalations daily or as advised by your healthcare provider.
For Flonase (fluticasone propionate), which treats allergic rhinitis symptoms:
- Adults and children over the age of 12: Spray two sprays into each nostril once daily; reduce to one spray when symptoms improve.
- Children aged between four to eleven: Start with one spray into each nostril once daily; consult your doctor if you do not see improvement after several days.
This drug should only be used under doctor's guidance, especially when it comes to pediatric use.
At what dose is Flonase typically prescribed?
Flonase treatment typically starts with a dosage of 2 sprays (50 mcg/spray) in each nostril once daily totaling 200 mcg/day. The dose can then be decreased to 1 spray in each nostril per day for maintenance therapy. Maximum dose is usually not more than 2 sprays in each nostril per day, which totals to 200 mcg/day. If there is no response or an inadequate response to the initial dosage after several days of treatment, the dose may need adjustment under your doctor's supervision.
What are the most common side effects for Flovent?
Common side effects of Flovent and Flonase can include:
- Headache
- Sore throat or sinus pain, cough
- Hoarseness or deepened voice
- Nasal congestion or runny nose (rhinorrhea)
- Dryness in the nasal passage or irritation at the site of application
- Unpleasant taste/smell after using the medication
- Nosebleed (epistaxis)
- Dizziness, nausea.
In case you experience any severe symptoms such as vision problems, wheezing, skin rash, sores inside your mouth/nose, fever/chills/flu-like symptoms with aches throughout the body - it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Flovent?
Although Flovent and Flonase are both corticosteroids used to treat respiratory issues, they can occasionally lead to adverse effects. Some of these may include:
- Signs of allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
- Vision problems including blurred vision or seeing halos around lights;
- Increased heart rate, palpitations or a feeling of fluttering in chest;
- Shortness of breath and sudden dizziness (feeling like you might pass out);
- Symptoms indicating reduced potassium levels - muscle weakness or limp feeling, severe leg discomfort, slow heart rate;
- Signs of hormonal imbalance - unusual tiredness or weakness, feeling light-headed;
- Severe skin rash that may be accompanied by fever.
While these side effects are not common with either medication and most people tolerate them well without any problems whatsoever, it is important to immediately contact a healthcare professional if any such symptoms appear after taking either Flovent or Flonase.
What are the most common side effects for Flonase?
Flonase, also known as fluticasone nasal spray, is a medication that can cause the following side effects:
- Dryness or irritation in the nose, mouth or throat
- Nosebleeds
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Skin rashes Some individuals may experience more serious side effects such as increased heart rate, blurred vision, confusion or agitation. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual symptoms while using Flonase.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Flonase?
While Flonase is generally considered safe and effective in treating nasal symptoms related to allergies, it's not entirely without potential side effects. Some individuals may experience:
- Signs of allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in the face or throat
- Severe skin reactions including redness, rash, itching or peeling
- Wounds that will not heal
- Blurred vision or other eye problems like pain and swelling
- Flu-like symptoms: fever, chills, body aches
- Unusual behavior changes (although very rare)
If you are using Flonase and notice any of these adverse reactions occurring with increasing severity over time, it's important to stop use immediately and consult your healthcare provider.
Contraindications for Flovent and Flonase?
Both Flovent and Flonase, along with most other corticosteroid medications, may worsen symptoms in some people. If you notice your breathing difficulties worsening or an increase in wheezing, coughing or throat irritation after using these medicines, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Flovent nor Flonase should be taken if you are taking or have been taking systemic steroids unless under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Always inform your physician about all the medications you are currently taking; it is important to allow enough time for systemic steroids to clear from your system before starting a new regimen with either Flovent or Flonase to prevent dangerous interactions.
How much do Flovent and Flonase cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price of 120 doses (sprays) of Flovent HFA (44 mcg per spray), a corticosteroid inhaler, averages around $240. If you follow the common dosage recommendation of two sprays twice daily, this works out to approximately $4/day.
- The price for 120 sprays of Flonase (50 mcg per spray), an over-the-counter nasal steroid spray, is about $22. With typical use being one to two sprays in each nostril once daily, it costs roughly $0.18–$0.36/day.
Thus, if using both medications at their maximum recommended dosages, Flonase is significantly less expensive on a per-day basis than Flovent. However, please note that cost should not be your primary consideration when determining which drug is right for you as they are used to treat different symptoms and conditions.
For generic versions of these medications - fluticasone propionate (Flonase) and fluticasone furoate (Flovent), prices can be substantially lower:
- Generic Flonase is available for around $15 for a bottle with 120 sprays which makes it even cheaper than its branded counterpart.
- On the other hand, generic Flovent does not currently exist in U.S., so patients needing this medication must purchase the brand-name version or find alternative treatments.
Remember that while both contain forms of fluticasone they cannot replace each other due to differences in usage and administration route – one's an inhaler intended for treating asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease whereas the other's a nasal spray designed mainly for allergic rhinitis management.
Popularity of Flovent and Flonase
Fluticasone, in generic form as well as brand names such as Flovent and Flonase, is a corticosteroid medication used to control and prevent symptoms caused by asthma or allergies.
Flovent (fluticasone propionate), an inhaler, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 2.5 million people in the US in 2020 for the management of asthma symptoms. It accounted for around 8% of all prescriptions written for inhaled corticosteroids.
On the other hand, Flonase (fluticasone furoate), a nasal spray often used for allergic rhinitis treatment, was prescribed to approximately 7.4 million individuals last year which represented just over 30% of nasal steroid prescriptions given out within this time period. Both drugs are under steady demand showing little fluctuation over recent years.
Conclusion
Flovent (fluticasone propionate) and Flonase (fluticasone furoate) are both corticosteroids that have a long-standing record of usage in managing respiratory conditions. They work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways, but they differ slightly in their delivery methods and indications. Flovent is primarily used as an inhaler to manage asthma symptoms, whereas Flonase is more commonly used as a nasal spray for treating allergic rhinitis.
Both drugs can be combined with other medications if necessary, but this should be under careful consideration by a healthcare provider due to potential drug interactions. Both are available as generic medications which represent significant cost savings especially for patients who must pay out of pocket.
It's important to note that neither Flovent nor Flonase provide immediate relief - it may take several days or even weeks before you notice improvements in your symptoms.
The side effect profile for these two drugs is similar: common side effects include headaches, sore throat, nosebleeds or changes in taste/smell. However, because Flovent is typically taken orally via inhalation it might also cause oral candidiasis or hoarseness. Patients using either medication should monitor their condition closely and seek medical help if they experience severe side effects such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face/tongue/throat.
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Refrences
- VANAS, A., BRONSKY, E., DOCKHORN, R., GROSSMAN, J., LUMRY, W., MELTZER, E., … ROGENES, P. (1993, June). Once daily fluticasone propionate is as effective for perennial allergic rhinitis as twice daily beclomethasone diproprionate. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1016/0091-6749(93)90317-9
- Okubo, K., Nakashima, M., Miyake, N., Komatsubara, M., & Okuda, M. (2009, January 1). Comparison of fluticasone furoate and fluticasone propionate for the treatment of Japanese cedar pollinosis. Allergy and Asthma Proceedings. Oceanside Publications Inc.http://doi.org/10.2500/aap.2009.30.3182
- Jacobs, R., Martin, B., Hampel, F., Toler, W., Ellsworth, A., & Philpot, E. (2009, April 28). Effectiveness of fluticasone furoate 110 μg once daily in the treatment of nasal and ocular symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and adolescents sensitized to mountain cedar pollen. Current Medical Research and Opinion. Informa Healthcare.http://doi.org/10.1185/03007990902890512