Flonase (fluticasone) is a prescription nasal spray indicated for the alleviation of symptoms associated with nasal allergies, including nasal congestion and sneezing. This medication is administered as a liquid spray into each nostril once daily or as prescribed by your doctor. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about Flonase's side effects before you begin using this medication.
Nasal Irritation
Use of Flonase nasal spray can cause mild to moderate nasal irritation in some patients. You can experience a burning or tingling sensation within your nasal passages following administration of this medication. Nasal sores, which can be tender or painful, can also develop as a side effect of treatment. Excess mucus or congestion can form within your nasal passages, making it difficult for you to breathe normally through your nose. Nasal irritation can also result in a nosebleed or small amounts of blood within your nasal secretions.
Throat Irritation
In clinical trials, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that approximately 8 percent of patients receiving 200 micrograms of Flonase per day experienced throat irritation (pharyngitis) as a side effect of treatment. Irritation along the lining of the throat can cause difficulty swallowing and can be painful. Throat irritation due to Flonase use is typically mild and subsides with recurrent use of this medication.
Headache
While using Flonase nasal spray, you can experience a headache as a side effect of treatment. Headache symptoms were reported in approximately 16 percent of patients receiving a once daily 200 microgram dose of Flonase during clinical trials, explains the FDA. Dizziness or lightheadedness can accompany headache symptoms in some patients. Headache symptoms are typically mild and can be relieved through the use of over-the-counter pain medication.
Stomach Upset
You can experience mild stomach upset while receiving treatment with Flonase nasal spray. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea can develop following use of this medication in some patients, explain health officials at Medline Plus, a medical website established by the National Institutes of Health. You may also notice an abnormal or unpleasant taste within your mouth, which can worsen symptoms of stomach upset.
Breathing Difficulties
While using Flonase, certain patients--especially those with asthma--can experience breathing difficulties. In clinical trials, 7 percent of patients receiving a once daily 100 microgram dose of Flonase developed asthma-like symptoms, reports the FDA. Such symptoms should be immediately reported to your doctor and may include wheezing, shortness of breath or chest pain.
