What It Is
Fluticasone belongs to a class of medicines called corticosteroids. It is available as an inhaler, a nasal spray, and a skin cream or ointment.
What It's Used For
Fluticasone is generally used to prevent asthma symptoms, to treat allergic rhinitis, and, in combination inhalers, to help manage COPD. The skin preparations are used for inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.
How It Works
Fluticasone reduces inflammation by lowering the activity of immune cells and the release of inflammatory chemicals. It is a potent steroid that acts mainly at the site where it is applied, and very little reaches the bloodstream when used as directed. Rinsing the mouth after using the inhaler helps prevent oral thrush.
History and Regulatory Status
Fluticasone was patented in 1980 and came into medical use in the 1990s. It is sold as a generic and under many brand names, often combined with salmeterol or formoterol in inhalers. Inhaled and skin forms are generally prescription medicines, while some nasal sprays are available over the counter in certain countries.