Furamist Az Nasal Spray 9.8 Gm

FURAMIST AZ NASAL SPRAY 9.8 GM by CIPLA LTD.

Furamist AZ Nasal Spray is a combination medicine manufactured by Cipla Ltd., used for the effective management of various allergic nasal symptoms.

Composition

Furamist AZ Nasal Spray contains two active ingredients:

• Azelastine hydrochloride: 140 mcg per spray. Azelastine is an antihistamine that blocks histamine's effects, reducing itching, swelling, and other allergy symptoms.
• Fluticasone Furoate: 27.5 mcg per spray. Fluticasone Furoate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation by blocking the production of inflammatory chemical messengers in the nasal lining.

Uses

This nasal spray is primarily used to treat symptoms associated with seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. It provides relief from:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itching (nasal and watery eyes)
• Nasal congestion and stuffiness
• Sinus discomfort

Dosage and Administration

Furamist AZ Nasal Spray is for intranasal administration only and should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor.

• Adults and Adolescents (12 years of age and over): The typical starting dosage is 110 mcg once daily, administered as two sprays in each nostril. Once symptoms are controlled, the dosage may be reduced to 55 mcg (one spray in each nostril) once daily for maintenance.
• General Administration Steps:
  1. Gently blow your nose to clear nostrils.
  2. Shake the bottle well before each use.
  3. Remove the cap and hold the bottle upright.
  4. Slightly tilt your head forward and insert the nozzle into one nostril, pointing it towards the outer wall of your nose.
  5. Close the other nostril with a finger and spray the medicine while inhaling gently through your nose.
  6. Repeat for the other nostril.
  7. Avoid sneezing or blowing your nose immediately after use.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Changes in taste (dysgeusia)
• Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
• Headache
• Nasal ulceration
• Sleepiness (somnolence)
• Local irritation, dryness of nose, or sore throat

More serious, though less common, side effects can include:

• Worsening of cataracts or glaucoma, especially with prolonged high doses.
• Delayed wound healing.
• Rarely, severe allergic reactions such as wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor before using if pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, cataracts, tuberculosis, chickenpox, measles, or a history of nasal ulcers, surgery, or trauma.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole), as they can increase the levels of fluticasone furoate and potentially lead to systemic corticosteroid side effects.
• Children: Furamist AZ Nasal Spray is generally not recommended for children below 6 years of age.
• Immune System: This medicine may weaken the immune system, so avoid contact with sick individuals.
• Drowsiness: May cause drowsiness; caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

Storage

• Store below 30°C.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed and upright when not in use.
• Protect from light and do not freeze.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray:

What is FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray used for?

FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray is a combination medicine primarily used to treat symptoms associated with allergies, such as allergic rhinitis. It helps relieve sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, nasal congestion, itching in the nose, and watery or itchy eyes caused by conditions like seasonal hay fever or perennial allergies.

How does FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray work?

This nasal spray contains two active ingredients: Fluticasone furoate and Azelastine hydrochloride. Fluticasone furoate is a corticosteroid that works by inhibiting the release of certain chemical substances in the body that cause inflammatory reactions. Azelastine hydrochloride is an antihistamine that blocks the action of histamine, a substance responsible for triggering allergic reactions. Together, they effectively reduce allergy symptoms and inflammation in the nasal passages.

What is the usual dosage for FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray?

For adults and adolescents (12 years of age and older), the recommended starting dosage is typically two sprays in each nostril once daily. Once symptoms are controlled and maximum benefit is achieved, your doctor may suggest reducing the dose to one spray in each nostril once daily for maintenance. For children aged 2 to 11 years, the usual starting dosage is one spray in each nostril once daily. Children who do not respond adequately to one spray may use two sprays in each nostril once daily, after which the dosage may be decreased to one spray once daily once symptoms are controlled. Always use as advised by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray?

Common side effects may include headaches, changes in taste (dysgeusia), nosebleeds (epistaxis), nasal dryness or irritation, and a sore throat. Some individuals might also experience nausea, vomiting, cough, burning or itching in the nose, or drowsiness/sleepiness. Prolonged use, especially at high doses, may rarely lead to eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult your doctor before using FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray. While limited human data suggests it is probably safe during breastfeeding with no significant risk to the baby, animal studies have shown potential adverse effects on the fetus during pregnancy. Use during pregnancy is generally considered only if the potential benefits to the mother outweigh the possible risks to the fetus.

Can FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescribed, non-prescribed, herbal medicines, and dietary supplements. Certain medicines, such as anti-HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir) and some antifungal or antiviral medicines, may interact with FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray and could potentially increase systemic exposure or worsen side effects.

What precautions should be taken while using FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray?

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. It is not recommended for children below 6 years of age, and some sources suggest not below 12 years for certain warnings. Exercise caution if you have infections like tuberculosis, or a history of nasal injury, surgery, or ulcers, as the spray can weaken the immune system and impair wound healing. If you have glaucoma or cataracts, or experience changes in vision, inform your doctor. People with liver or kidney problems should also consult their doctor. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it may increase side effects like dizziness or drowsiness. The spray may cause blurred vision or dizziness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. To help prevent fungal infections, thoroughly rinse your mouth after using the nasal spray. Do not share the nasal spray bottle with others.

What happens if a dose of FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray is missed?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray be stored?

FURAMIST AZ Nasal Spray should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle upright and tightly closed when not in use. It should be kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Do not freeze the medicine.