What is Flonase?
Flonase is the brand name for fluticasone propionate, a nasal spray medication formulated to help alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis or hay fever. It’s a common medication prescribed by healthcare professionals to people experiencing seasonal allergies, or when exposed to allergens such as dust, pet dander, or pollen.
Does Flonase go bad?
Like any other medication, Flonase has an expiration date indicated on its packaging. This expiry date guarantees the potency, safety and effectiveness of the medication at its full strength.
If used after the expiration date, there is a chance that the medication could have lost some of its effectiveness or may even cause adverse effects.
It also important to note that improper storage can take a toll on the medicine’s potency, especially when the solution gets exposed to light or high temperatures. It’s always best to check with the pharmacist or the prescribing physician before using any medication, particularly if it’s been stored for a while, or if there’s any doubt about its efficacy.
What Happens when Flonase is Past its Expiration Date?
When a medication, such as Flonase, is past its expiration date, the efficacy, safety and potency of the drug may be compromised. The active ingredients of the medication may have degraded, and the solution may have changed its composition, rendering the drug less effective or even harmful.
In the case of Flonase, using a nasal spray that has expired may result in the medication being ineffective in alleviating allergic symptoms, while exposing the user to potential side-effects, including nasal irritation, sneezing, itching, or more severe conditions such as sinus infections or coughing.
How Long Does Flonase Last Once Opened?
Unlike its expiration date, Flonase lasts for a specific amount of time once the seal has been broken, usually around one month. Once opened, its shelf-life is reduced due to the fact that the drug can be affected by airtightness, temperature, and humidity. It’s important to keep the medicine tightly sealed when not in use and to always follow the recommended storage instructions on the packaging.
How to Check the Expiration Date on Flonase?
Typically, the expiration date for Flonase can be found on the box and the bottle, usually in a format such as ‘Exp’, ‘Expires on’, or ‘Use by’.
The date should be read numerically as month-day-year. For example, if the date reads ’06-23-2022′, it means the medicine can be used until June 23rd, 2022, and should not be used after this date. Always check the expiration date and discard any medication that’s past it to ensure the safety of its use.
The Importance of Proper Storage for Flonase
Proper storage is key to maintaining the potency and effectiveness of Flonase as well as improving the medication’s shelf life. Improper storage can lead to the degradation of the active ingredients in the spray, making it less effective or even harmful.
Storage tips include:
- Store in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and heat
- Keep it tightly sealed and upright at all times
- Do not store in a bathroom or other areas where there is high humidity
- Ensure that the bottle is upright and with the nozzle pointed upwards when not in use
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
When should I discard Flonase?
Discard Flonase when it’s past its expiration date or if there are any visible changes in the medication, such as discoloration, cloudiness, or sedimentation. The same applies when the spray becomes clogged and the medication is difficult to administer.
It’s essential to pay careful attention to the storage instructions, making sure to keep the medication in its original packaging and to check the integrity of the spray’s nozzle regularly. It’s best to replace the medication with a new one when the existing bottle is empty.
Flonase FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Flonase:
1. How long does Flonase take to work?
Flonase starts working almost immediately. However, it takes several hours to achieve optimal results. Relief from allergy symptoms may not be noticeable until after several days of regular use.
2. Is it okay to take Flonase before bed?
Yes, Flonase may be taken at any time of the day, but it’s important to follow the usual dosing instructions prescribed by the doctor.
3. Can Flonase cause side effects?
Some side effects of Flonase may occur occasionally, including headache, dryness of the nasal passages, nasal irritation, and sore throat. If you experience any severe symptoms or other side effects, you should immediately consult your doctor or healthcare provider.
4. Can I use Flonase if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding, including Flonase. They will advise on its safety to use, benefitting more than the possible risks.
References:
- ‘Flonase HFA’, U.S. National Library of Medicine, https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699063.html
- ‘Fluticasone Nasal, Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray’, WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-20518-268/fluticasone-nasal/fluticasone-propionate-nasal-spray/details
- ‘Flonase’, MedicineNet, https://www.medicinenet.com/fluticasone_nasal_spray/article.htm