About Flonase
Flonase (fluticasone) is a corticosteroid medication used to treat an overactive immune response from various health conditions, including allergic reactions, asthma, and nasal polyps. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation.
Fluticasone is available over the counter or by prescription. It's available as a generic medication under different brand names, including fluticasone.
Flonase may be prescribed as a nasal spray. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Flonase, be sure to complete the full course of the corticosteroid unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, Flonase may not fully treat your symptoms.
Flonase uses
There are several FDA-approved uses for fluticasone propionate nasal spray, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe Flonase nasal spray for any of the following reasons, or other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
Allergy symptoms
Flonase nasal spray is FDA-approved for hay fever and allergic rhinitis symptoms, including runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy nose. Flonase reduces irritation and inflammation inside the nasal cavity and suppresses the body's immune response to allergens.
Nasal polyps
Fluticasone propionate nasal spray is FDA-approved to treat nasal polyps. The FDA has approved XHANCE, a nasal spray that enters further into the nasal passages than typical nasal sprays, to treat growths in the nasal cavity.
Asthma
Oral fluticasone propionate inhalation is FDA-approved to treat asthma. Fluticasone propionate can help improve lung function, prevent difficulty breathing, and reduce chest tightness caused by asthma.
Flonase side effects
The side effects associated with taking Flonase are typically mild. Individuals taking Flonase report a variety of side effects, and side effects may vary from patient to patient.
Some common side effects of Flonase include:Skin rash and irritation
Burning or itching
Lightheadedness
Nausea or vomiting
Throat irritation
Coughing
Headaches
Nosebleeds
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Sinusitis
Severe asthma or shortness of breath
Inflammation in the upper respiratory tract
Bronchitis
Fungal infections
You should call your doctor if you notice any adverse effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. The use of Flonase is not recommended for children younger than the age of 4, as it may slow children's growth.
How to take Flonase
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Flonase prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
For adults, the FDA recommends using two sprays (50 mcg/spray) in each nostril once per day. For children aged 4 years and older, the FDA recommends using one spray (50 mcg/spray) in each nostril once per day. Children should use Flonase for the shortest amount of time necessary to achieve symptom relief.
If your symptoms are still present after six months of daily use, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
What to avoid while taking Flonase
Flonase has several drug interactions. Don’t change taking flonase without checking with your healthcare professional or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and over-the-counter medicines.
Some possible drug interactions with Flonase include:
You can drink alcohol while using fluticasone nasal spray and don't usually need to avoid particular foods.
Medication alternatives to Flonase
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another allergy medication or corticosteroid in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
Allergies
Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
Nasacort (triamcinolone)
Afrin (oxymetazolin)
Nasal polyops
Rhinocort (budesonide)
Nasonex, Asmanex HFA (mometasone)
Nasacort (triamcinolone)
Asthma
Flonase prescription FAQs
How much does Flonase cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, prescription Flonase costs approximately $17.44 for a 9.9 mL bottle of 50 mcg/ACT nasal spray without health insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as fluticasone, offer an affordable alternative.
How can I refill my Flonase prescription?
To refill your Flonase nasal spray prescription, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
Who should not take Flonase?
If you have a weakened immune system, chronic health condition, or are currently taking another corticosteroid, talk to your doctor about Flonase. You should also tell your doctor if you have a medical history of:
Sores or ulcers inside your nose
Eye problems, including glaucoma or cataracts
Liver disease
Diabetes
Any type of infection (bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic)
What happens if I miss a dose of Flonase?
If you miss a dose of Flonase, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much Flonase?
If you've taken too much Flonase, call your doctor right away or call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
An overdose of Flonase is not expected to produce life-threatening symptoms. However, long-term use of steroid medicine can cause eye problems, body fat changes, menstrual problems, and other health issues.
3 simple steps to request your Flonase prescription today

Step 1
Book a Flonase prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Flonase prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3
Pick up your Flonase prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Flonase prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Flonase prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Flonase prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Cleveland Clinic. Fluticasone Nasal Spray. Accessed on August 31, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18853-fluticasone-nasal-spray
Food and Drug Administration. FLONASE (fluticasone propionate) nasal spray. Accessed on August 31, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/020121s045lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Fluticasone (Nasal Route). Accessed on August 31, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fluticasone-nasal-route/proper-use/drg-20070965?p=1