Flixotide®
What Flixotide inhalers ('puffers') are used for
You may know your Inhaler better as a 'puffer'. Flixotide puffers contain a medicine called fluticasone propionate. This medicine belongs to a group of medicines known as corticosteroids, frequently called 'steroids'. They are not 'anabolic steroids' which are the steroids sometimes misused by athletes.
Your Flixotide puffer provides a measured amount of steroid for you to breathe into your lungs. By using your Flixotide puffer regularly every day, the medicine reduces the swelling and irritation in the walls of the small air passages in your lungs. Your Flixotide puffer contains the type of asthma medicine known as a 'preventer'. It does not give immediate relief from an asthma attack and may take up to a week to start to work. If your shortness of breath or wheeze does not get better after 7 days, tell your doctor. When used every day, your Flixotide puffer helps to ease breathing problems and prevent asthma attacks.
This medicine is only one part of a general plan to help you manage your asthma. You should discuss this plan with your doctor. You may also be using a 'reliever puffer'. Keep using it according to your doctor's advice. Ask your doctor to check your treatment regularly.
Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why a Flixotide puffer has been prescribed for you.
The medicine in Flixotide puffers is not addictive.
Flixotide puffers generally do not cause any problems with your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.
Consumer Medicine Information on Flixotide Accuhaler.
Consumer Medicine Information on Flixotide Inhaler.
Flixotide (fluticasone propionate) is available in Inhaler 25, 50, 125 or 250 micrograms per actuation and Accuhaler 50, 100, or 250 micrograms per actuation. Flixotide inhalers are fully funded medicines, normal pharmacist fees apply. Flixotide Accuhaler is not fully funded; a part charge will apply. Prescription Medicine for the prevention of asthma. Use strictly as directed. Do not use Flixotide if you: have ever had an allergic reaction to fluticasone or lactose; or for sudden attacks of breathlessness. Always carry your reliever inhaler for use during acute attacks. Tell your doctor if you: are taking other medicines or herbal remedies; have had to stop taking other asthma medicines; have tuberculosis (TB) or other long-term lung infection. Do not discontinue Flixotide suddenly without consulting with your doctor. Side Effects may include: sore throat or tongue, hoarseness or throat irritation, skin reactions, shortness of breath and wheezing. Tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you have any concerns. If symptoms continue or you have side effects see your doctor, pharmacist or health professional. Additional Consumer Medicine Information for Flixotide is available at www.medsafe.govt.nz. Normal doctor’s office visit fees apply. Ask your doctor if Flixotide is right for you.
Flixotide and Accuhaler are trade marks of the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies. Marketed by GlaxoSmithKline NZ Limited, Auckland. TAPS DA89KH/08MY/066
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