Nasal Steroid Spray Side Effects
Nasal steroid allergy sprays like FLONASE are different from other types of nasal sprays, like Afrin®, which is only a decongestant.1 Not only do nasal steroid allergy sprays reduce the swelling in nasal passages, making it easier to breathe through your nose,1 but they also treat other symptoms, like itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and runny nose.2 And before you think a nasal allergy spray will bulk up your nostrils, you can rest easy. Nasal steroid sprays like FLONASE contain a glucocorticoid—a substance produced naturally by your body to help fight inflammation.3 A glucocorticoid is a kind of steroid that is different from the anabolic (muscle-building) steroids sometimes misused by athletes.3
SIDE EFFECTS OF NASAL STEROIDS
It’s important to know that nasal steroid sprays are safe to use for all adults. However, for children, make sure that you use one that’s approved for children ages 2 or over.4 Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns before starting use.
Serious side effects are rare with FLONASE Allergy Relief because FLONASE works in your nose, and barely any of it travels through your body. However, like all medicines, FLONASE can cause side effects in some people. Some common short-term and long-term side effects may occur when using intranasal steroid sprays like FLONASE allergy relief nasal sprays. These effects may include:2,4
- Burning, dryness or irritation inside the nose
- Throat irritation
- Headache
- Sneezing
- An unpleasant taste in the mouth
Make sure you (or your child) use the spray exactly as prescribed to avoid side effects.
If you experience symptoms while using our family of FLONASE products that resemble an allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of the face or tongue, wheezing, or feeling faint, stop using FLONASE and see a doctor. If you have questions or concerns about symptoms or trouble using the medication, it is best to call your doctor.
PRECAUTIONS
To help prevent local side effects from FLONASE allergy relief nasal sprays, it's best to spray only the recommended number of sprays in each nostril and aim the nozzle toward the outer wall of the nostril.4 Be sure to blow your nose to clear the passageway and wash your hands before using FLONASE.4 To learn how you can get the most from your FLONASE products, refer to our How to Use guide to ensure you achieve the allergy relief you need.
Learn which FLONASE product is right for you:
- You Want Me To Spray What Up My Nose? American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy. https://www.aaoallergy.org/you-want-me-to-spray-what-up-my-nose-%EF%BB%BF/. Accessed 9/11/2024/.
- Steroid Nasal Sprays. National Health Services UK. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/steroid-nasal-sprays/. Accessed 9/11/2024.
- Glucocorticoids. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3726115/. Accessed 9/11/2024.
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. Nasal corticosteroid sprays. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000404.htm. Accessed August 9, 2019.
Find the Best Flonase Product For You
Leading a life not limited by allergies starts with FLONASE. Each product offers you the chance to help tackle your allergies and help manage your symptoms.
