Why is this medication prescribed?

Flovent Diskus is a prescription medication primarily used to prevent asthma attacks and to treat symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma. It belongs to a class of medications known as corticosteroids, which work by reducing inflammation in the airways.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Flovent Diskus should be used:

• Read the Instructions: Before using Flovent Diskus for the first time, carefully read the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Follow the instructions provided.
• Prepare the Inhaler: Hold the Diskus in one hand and place the thumb of the other hand on the thumb grip. Push the thumb away from you as far as it will go until the mouthpiece appears and snaps into position. Hold the Diskus in a level, flat position with the mouthpiece facing towards you.
• Exhale: Breathe out as fully as possible, expelling as much air from your lungs as you comfortably can.
• Inhale the Medication: Bring the Diskus to your mouth, and place the mouthpiece between your lips. Inhale deeply and forcefully through your mouth to ensure that the medication reaches your lungs. Do not exhale into the Diskus.
• Hold Your Breath: After inhaling the medication, remove the Diskus from your mouth and hold your breath for about 10 seconds, if possible. This allows the medication to be absorbed into your lungs.
• Rinse Your Mouth: After using Flovent Diskus, rinse your mouth with water to help prevent the development of thrush or other oral infections.
• Close the Diskus: Once you have finished using the Diskus, slide the thumb grip back towards you as far as it will go. This will close the Diskus and reset it for the next use.
• Clean the Inhaler: It’s essential to keep the Diskus clean. Wipe the mouthpiece with a dry tissue or cloth at least once a week.
• Use as Prescribed: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and frequency of use. Do not use more or less of the medication than prescribed.

It’s important to note that Flovent Diskus is a maintenance medication for asthma and should be used regularly, even if you are not experiencing symptoms. It may take several days to weeks of consistent use before you notice the full benefits of the medication. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Flovent Diskus, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Flovent Diskus is primarily prescribed for the prevention of asthma attacks and the treatment of asthma symptoms. However, it may also be used for other conditions under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Some off-label uses of Flovent Diskus may include the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions involving inflammation of the airways.

What special precautions should I follow?

As with any medication, there are special precautions to consider when using Flovent Diskus:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to fluticasone or any other corticosteroids, or if you have any other allergies.
• Medical History: Before using Flovent Diskus, discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have or have had tuberculosis, untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral infections, osteoporosis, or any other lung or breathing problems.
• Infections: Corticosteroids like fluticasone can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have contagious diseases such as chickenpox or measles. If you are exposed to these infections, consult your doctor immediately.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks of using Flovent Diskus during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Children: Flovent Diskus may be used in children, but the dosage and frequency will be determined by your child’s healthcare provider based on their age, weight, and medical condition.
• Use as Directed: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and frequency of use. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or abruptly stop using the medication without consulting your doctor.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor your lung function regularly while you are using Flovent Diskus to ensure it is effectively managing your condition.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects, including thrush (yeast infection in the mouth or throat), hoarseness, coughing, and changes in taste or smell. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your doctor promptly.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as Flovent Diskus may interact with certain medications.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Flovent Diskus and any precautions specific to your individual circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Flovent Diskus. However, maintaining a balanced diet and following any dietary advice provided by your healthcare provider can contribute to overall health and potentially improve asthma management.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Flovent Diskus, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Don’t double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Flovent Diskus, like any medication, may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Flovent Diskus may include:

• Throat irritation: Some people may experience throat irritation, hoarseness, or coughing after using Flovent Diskus. Rinsing the mouth with water after use can help minimize these effects.
• Oral Thrush: Flovent Diskus may increase the risk of developing oral thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth or throat. Rinsing the mouth with water after each use and using a spacer device if prescribed by your doctor can help reduce this risk.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect of using Flovent Diskus.
• Nausea: Nausea may occur in some people using Flovent Diskus.
• Voice Changes: Rarely, Flovent Diskus may cause changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness or deepening of the voice.
• Increased Risk of Infections: Long-term use of corticosteroids like Flovent Diskus may weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections such as respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, or thrush.
• Bone Density Loss: Prolonged use of high doses of corticosteroids like fluticasone (the active ingredient in Flovent Diskus) may lead to decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
• Growth Suppression in Children: Inhaled corticosteroids like Flovent Diskus may potentially affect the growth rate in children. However, the benefits of asthma control usually outweigh this risk, and growth typically catches up over time.
• Adrenal Suppression: Long-term use of high doses of corticosteroids may suppress adrenal gland function, leading to adrenal insufficiency. This is more common with oral corticosteroids but may also occur with inhaled corticosteroids like Flovent Diskus, particularly at higher doses.

It’s important to note that these are not all the possible side effects of Flovent Diskus. Some people may experience other side effects not listed here. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while using Flovent Diskus, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Flovent Diskus:

• Storage: Store Flovent Diskus at room temperature between 68-77°F (20-25°C) away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Keep the Diskus in its protective foil pouch until you’re ready to use it. Once opened, the Diskus should be used within 6 weeks.
• Disposal: When your Flovent Diskus is empty or past its expiration date, it’s essential to dispose of it properly. Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider. Generally, you can dispose of the empty Diskus in your household trash. However, to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets, it’s a good idea to make the Diskus unusable by removing or destroying the mouthpiece before disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Flovent Diskus, take the following steps:

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, rapid heart rate, confusion, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention by calling your local emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about the medication ingested, including the name of the medication (Flovent Diskus), the strength or dosage, and the amount ingested if known.
• Follow Medical Advice: Follow any instructions provided by medical professionals regarding further treatment or management of the overdose. Treatment may involve supportive care to alleviate symptoms and monitoring for complications.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Use: Flovent Diskus is a maintenance medication for asthma and should be used regularly, even if you’re not experiencing symptoms. It may take several days to weeks of consistent use before you notice the full benefits of the medication.
• Medical Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor your lung function regularly while you’re using Flovent Diskus to ensure it’s effectively managing your condition. Follow up with your healthcare provider as scheduled.
• Refill Reminder: Keep track of the number of doses remaining in your Flovent Diskus, and refill your prescription before you run out to ensure uninterrupted use of the medication.
• Spacers: If your healthcare provider has prescribed a spacer device to use with your Flovent Diskus, make sure you know how to use it properly. Spacers can help improve medication delivery to the lungs and reduce the risk of side effects such as oral thrush.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not abruptly stop using Flovent Diskus without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to worsening of asthma symptoms or withdrawal effects.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use, storage, disposal, and management of Flovent Diskus.