Is Flomist A Steroid And What Are Its Side Effects?

Hello, Thank you for asking at HCM. I went through your wife s history and would like to make following suggestions to you: 1. Yes, Flomist contains a corticosteroid - Fluticasone propionate. It is very important to remember that there are so many types of corticosteroids available. Corticosteroids in nasal sprays mostly act locally and only tiny amounts get absorbed into blood hence do not significantly produce general side effects caused by corticosteroid tablets/injections. 2. Common side effects of intranasal corticosteroids are local - burning in nose, dryness of nose, sometimes small bleeds. 3. Intranasal corticosteroids should be used with proper technique (please consult your doctor for learning the proper technique) to minimize side effects. Especially, the spray should be directed towards side-roof (alae) of the nose, not towards the middle membrane (septum) of the nose. If used for long time with directing towards septum, there is a rare possibility of perforation of septum of the nose. 4. Regarding duration, it should be determined by patients symptoms, not by time. All the medications can only control allergy symptoms, they do not cure it. So as long as your wife needs them, they should be continued. The decision to stop medications is best taken by her treating doctor. In general, once symptoms are under control with other medications, life style measures and environmental control, they can be slowly reduced and stopped under doctor s guidance. 5. From your history, I would agree with most of the treatment for your wife. I would also suggest her daily breathing exercises and a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals (adequate amounts of green leafy vegetables, fruits, sprouts, etc) for a better recovery. 6. I would also suggest her allergy testing which will help her identifying the substances causing troubles to her and also to know how to avoid them. 7. Please avoid exposure to dusts, smokes, fumes and air pollution to her as much as possible. Hope above suggestions will be helpful her. Should you have any further query, please feel free to ask at HCM. Wish your wife a quick recovery and the best of the health. Thank you & Regards.