What is Avamys nasal spray?
Avamys nasal spray is a prescription medication used to treat hay fever and other allergies. It contains fluticasone furoate, which helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages caused by allergic reactions to pollen, animals, and house dust. This steroid-based spray can effectively alleviate symptoms like nasal congestion, a runny or itchy nose, sneezing, and itchy, watery eyes. Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, each bottle contains around 120 sprays and is suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and older.
What is Avamys nasal spray used for?
Avamys nasal spray is used to reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever), such as nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and watery, itchy, or red eyes. It can also relieve symptoms caused by other allergens like pet hair or house dust. The spray is applied to each nostril once or twice daily to quickly reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort.
How does Avamys nasal spray treat allergic rhinitis?
Avamys nasal spray contains fluticasone furoate, a corticosteroid with strong anti-inflammatory properties. It works by reducing the swelling in the nasal mucosa that occurs during an allergic reaction, thereby alleviating symptoms like itchiness, sneezing, and a runny nose. The spray is effective against nasal allergies throughout the year.
How quickly does Avamys nasal spray work?
Avamys nasal spray typically begins to reduce hay fever symptoms within 8 hours of application, reaching its full effect after a few days of use. Initially, you may use two sprays per nostril each day, reducing to one spray per nostril once symptoms are under control. Continue using Avamys as long as you're exposed to allergens.
What are the alternatives to Avamys nasal spray?
If you prefer not to use a fluticasone furoate nasal spray, there are alternative treatments for allergic rhinitis, such as antihistamine tablets, eye drops, and non-steroid nasal sprays. Some common options include:
- Hay fever tablets: Chlorphenamine, Piriteze, Zirtek.
- Eye drops: Opticrom, Optilast, Optrex.
- Non-steroid nasal sprays: Nasacort, Beconase, Benacort.
You may want to try these over-the-counter treatments before seeking a prescription for Avamys.
How do I use Avamys nasal spray?
The recommended starting dose for Avamys nasal spray is 2 sprays in each nostril per day. Once your symptoms are under control, you can reduce this to 1 spray per nostril per day. For children aged 6 to 11 years, the usual dose is 1 spray per nostril daily, but this may be increased to 2 sprays per nostril if symptoms are severe.
To use the spray:
- Gently blow your nose if comfortable.
- Shake the bottle well.
- Tilt your head slightly forward.
- Insert the nozzle into one nostril, aiming it away from the nasal septum.
- Squeeze the nozzle while breathing in through your nose.
- Repeat for the other nostril.
If you have difficulty breathing through the treated nostril, you can close the other nostril with a finger while applying the spray.
What are the ingredients in Avamys nasal spray?
Avamys contains the active ingredient fluticasone furoate (27.5 micrograms per spray). Inactive ingredients include glucose anhydrous, dispersible cellulose, polysorbate 80, benzalkonium chloride, disodium edetate, and purified water.
What are the possible side effects of Avamys nasal spray?
Side effects from using Avamys are uncommon but can include:
- Nosebleeds
- Nasal ulcers
- Headaches
- Nasal irritation or soreness
In rare cases, Avamys may cause thrush. If side effects persist or you experience any adverse reactions, stop using the nasal spray and consult your doctor for alternative treatments.
What warnings should I be aware of when using Avamys nasal spray?
Avamys is not recommended for children under 6 years old. Before using Avamys, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications, have a history of cataracts or glaucoma, or if you experience any vision changes while using the spray. Also, be aware that benzalkonium chloride, an inactive ingredient, may cause nasal irritation.
Can I use Avamys nasal spray with other medications?
If you are taking protease inhibitors (like ritonavir), other corticosteroid medicines, or certain antifungal treatments (like ketoconazole), consult your doctor before using Avamys nasal spray, as it may not be advisable to combine these medications.
Is Avamys nasal spray safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Avamys nasal spray to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.