Freeair Nasal Spray 6 Gm

FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY 6 GM

FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY is a corticosteroid medication manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd., primarily used for relieving symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis.

Composition

The active ingredient in FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY is Fluticasone Furoate (27.5 mcg per actuation, 0.055% w/w). It also contains Benzalkonium Chloride IP 0.015% w/w as a preservative.

Uses

FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY is prescribed for the treatment of symptoms related to seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. This includes managing sneezing, runny nose, blocked or stuffy nose, sinus discomfort, and itchy or watery eyes caused by allergies. It works by blocking certain chemical messengers that cause inflammation and allergic reactions in the nasal passages.

Dosage and Administration

FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY is for intranasal use only. The intranasal device should be shaken before each use and primed (approximately 6 sprays until a fine mist is seen) if it's the first use, or if the cap has been off for 5 days or more, or if not used for 30 days or more.

• Adults and Adolescents (12 years of age and older): The recommended starting dosage is 110 mcg (2 sprays in each nostril) once daily. Once symptoms are controlled, the dosage may be reduced to 55 mcg (1 spray in each nostril) once daily.
• Children (2 to 11 years of age): The recommended starting dosage is 55 mcg (1 spray in each nostril) once daily. Children not responding adequately may use 110 mcg (2 sprays in each nostril) once daily, then reduce to 55 mcg once daily when symptoms are controlled.

To administer, gently blow your nose, close one nostril, insert the nozzle into the other, spray while inhaling gently, and repeat for the other nostril.

Side Effects

Common side effects include nasal irritation, headache, nosebleeds, nasal ulceration, soreness or dryness inside the nose, and shortness of breath. In some cases, it may lead to nasal inflammation, sore throat, or unpleasant taste/smell. Serious side effects may include facial pain, painful swallowing, eye pain, white patches in the nose or throat (indicating fungal infection), or persistent sore throat. Long-term use may rarely cause cataracts or glaucoma.

Precautions

Do not use FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY if you are allergic to fluticasone furoate or any other ingredients. Inform your doctor if you have a nose infection, recently had nose surgery, or have nose sores, as it may worsen the condition or impair healing. The medicine may lower your ability to fight infections; thus, avoid contact with individuals having contagious diseases like chickenpox, measles, or tuberculosis. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, herpes infection of the eye, asthma, or a weak immune system. Avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like ritonavir. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Storage

Store FREEAIR NASAL SPRAY in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze. The bottle should be kept closed tightly and upright when not in use.

What is Freeair Nasal Spray used for?

Freeair Nasal Spray, containing Fluticasone Furoate, is primarily used to relieve symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, stuffy or blocked nose, itchy nose, and itchy or watery eyes. It can also help alleviate sinus discomfort and, in some cases, mild sinusitis symptoms.

How does Freeair Nasal Spray work?

Freeair Nasal Spray is a corticosteroid (specifically a glucocorticoid). It works by reducing inflammation and irritation in the nasal passages. It does this by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers in the body, such as histamines and prostaglandins, that are responsible for causing allergic reactions and swelling.

What is the usual dosage for Freeair Nasal Spray?

The dosage of Freeair Nasal Spray should always be as prescribed by your doctor. For adults and adolescents (12 years of age and older), the recommended starting dosage is typically 110 mcg, administered as two sprays in each nostril once daily. Once the maximum benefit is achieved and symptoms are controlled, the dosage may be reduced to 55 mcg (one spray in each nostril) once daily for maintenance. For children aged 6 years and older, the recommended starting dosage is 55 mcg, administered as one spray in each nostril once daily. If symptoms are not adequately controlled, the dosage may be increased to 110 mcg (two sprays in each nostril) once daily, then potentially decreased back to 55 mcg once daily once symptoms are under control. It is not recommended for children below six years of age by some sources.

What are the possible side effects of Freeair Nasal Spray?

Common side effects can include nasal irritation, headache, nosebleeds (especially with continuous use for more than six weeks), nasal ulceration, and dryness or soreness inside the nose or throat. Other possible side effects include an unpleasant taste or smell, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, cough, chest tightness, fever, nasal congestion, and eye pain. If you experience persistent or bothersome side effects, or notice more serious issues such as facial pain, painful swallowing, white patches in the nose/back of the throat, or a persistent sore throat, you should speak to your doctor immediately. Long-term use may also rarely lead to cataracts or glaucoma.

Is Freeair Nasal Spray safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: Freeair Nasal Spray may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have indicated potential harmful effects on the developing baby, although human data is limited. It should only be used if clearly necessary and after consulting your doctor, who will assess the benefits against potential risks.

During Breastfeeding: It is generally considered probably safe to use Freeair Nasal Spray while breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that a minimal amount of the drug is likely to pass into breast milk, and it is very unlikely to cause any significant risk or side effects in the baby. However, it is always best to consult your doctor before using any medication while breastfeeding.

Can Freeair Nasal Spray be taken with other medications?

You should inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Freeair Nasal Spray can interact with certain medications, particularly strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir (used for HIV infection), ketoconazole, and itraconazole (antifungal medicines), as these can increase the exposure to fluticasone furoate and raise the risk of side effects. It is also important to avoid using Freeair Nasal Spray at the same time as other nasal sprays containing steroid medication.

What precautions should be taken while using Freeair Nasal Spray?

Do not use Freeair Nasal Spray if you are allergic to fluticasone furoate or other glucocorticoids. Inform your doctor if you have recently had nose surgery, injury, or nose sores, as the spray may cause irritation, nosebleeds, or hinder healing. Exercise caution and inform your doctor if you have eye conditions like glaucoma or cataracts, or a herpes infection of the eye, as long-term use could potentially worsen these conditions. Patients with liver disease should use this medicine with caution. Avoid close contact with individuals who have chickenpox, measles, or tuberculosis, as corticosteroids can make you more susceptible to infections. It is not intended for use with symptoms of the common cold. You should also try to avoid triggers like dust, pollen, and smoking, as they can worsen allergic symptoms.

What happens if a dose of Freeair Nasal Spray is missed?

If you miss a dose of Freeair Nasal Spray, 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 Freeair Nasal Spray be stored?

Freeair Nasal Spray should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze the spray. Discard any unused medicine properly, and do not flush it down the toilet or throw it into the drain.