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Flixonase Nasal Spray

Flixonase Nasal Spray

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What Is Flixonase Nasal Spray and How Does It Help?

 

If hay fever or year-round nasal allergies are making your life miserable, you are not alone. Millions of people in the UK experience allergic rhinitis every year, and finding something that actually works can feel like a challenge. Flixonase Nasal Spray is a clinically established corticosteroid nasal spray containing fluticasone propionate 50 micrograms per actuation. It is used to treat and prevent the nasal symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis in adults and children aged 4 and over. You can explore our full range of allergy and hay fever treatments if you want to compare your options before deciding.

Fluticasone propionate is a well-studied intranasal corticosteroid with a long track record of safety and effectiveness. Unlike oral antihistamines, which work systemically, this spray acts locally in the nasal passages — meaning it targets the problem right at the source. It is available over the counter in the UK without a prescription for adults and children aged 4 and over.

 

How Does Flixonase Nasal Spray Work in the Nasal Passages?

 

Allergic rhinitis occurs when your immune system overreacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander. This triggers a cascade of inflammation in the nasal lining. Fluticasone propionate works by interrupting that process at a cellular level.

  • It binds to glucocorticoid receptors inside nasal mucosal cells.
  • This reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators such as histamine and leukotrienes.
  • Swelling of the nasal lining decreases, opening up the nasal passages.
  • Symptoms including congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal itching are relieved over time.

Because it works locally rather than systemically, very little of the active ingredient is absorbed into the bloodstream. This makes it a well-tolerated option for most people when used as directed.

 

Who Should Use Flixonase Nasal Spray?

 

This spray is suitable for a wide range of people dealing with nasal allergy symptoms. Whether your symptoms are seasonal — triggered by tree or grass pollen — or present all year round due to dust mites or pet hair, it can help. It is particularly useful if you find oral antihistamines alone are not controlling your nasal congestion.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with seasonal or perennial allergic rhinitis
  • Adolescents aged 12 to 17 years (two sprays per nostril once daily)
  • Children aged 4 to 11 years (one spray per nostril once daily, under adult supervision)
  • People who prefer a targeted nasal treatment over systemic oral medication

It is not suitable for children under 4 years of age. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a nasal infection, speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting treatment.

 

How Does Flixonase Nasal Spray Compare to Other Nasal Sprays?

 

Feature Flixonase Nasal Spray Beconase Nasal Spray
Active ingredient Fluticasone propionate 50 mcg Beclometasone dipropionate 50 mcg
Minimum age 4 years 6 years
Dosing frequency Once daily Twice daily
UK OTC availability Yes Yes

 

Is Flixonase Nasal Spray Safe to Store at Home?

 

Yes — storage is straightforward. Keep the bottle below 30°C and do not freeze it. Store it upright with the cap on when not in use, and keep it out of reach of children. Each bottle of Flixonase Nasal Spray delivers 150 metered doses, so it should last a full allergy season for most adults using the standard maintenance dose. If you also suffer from eye symptoms alongside nasal allergies, you might find our eye care range useful for a more complete approach to allergy management.

Check the expiry date before use and discard the bottle after the stated number of doses, even if liquid remains. Do not share your nasal spray with others.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Flixonase Nasal Spray specifications
Treatment category Allergic rhinitis / Hay fever
Active ingredient Fluticasone propionate 50 micrograms per actuation
Mechanism of action Intranasal corticosteroid — reduces nasal mucosal inflammation
Effective for Seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis
Suitable for Adults and children aged 4 years and over
Pack sizes 150 dose bottle
Strengths 50 micrograms per actuation
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Corticosteroid (glucocorticoid)
Preparation Aqueous nasal suspension
Route of administration Intranasal

Specifications of Flixonase Nasal Spray

 

What Is Flixonase Nasal Spray and What Is It Used For?

 

Flixonase Nasal Spray is an intranasal corticosteroid spray used to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis — both seasonal (hay fever) and perennial (year-round). It contains fluticasone propionate 50 micrograms per actuation, which reduces inflammation in the nasal lining caused by allergens. Common triggers include grass and tree pollen, house dust mites, mould spores, and pet dander. Symptoms it helps to relieve include nasal congestion, sneezing, a runny nose, and nasal itching. It can also help with associated eye symptoms in some patients, though it is not applied to the eyes.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Flixonase Nasal Spray?

 

Before using this spray, make sure it is appropriate for you. There are some situations where you should not use it, and others where extra caution is needed.

Do not use Flixonase Nasal Spray if you:

  • Are allergic to fluticasone propionate or any other ingredient in the spray
  • Have a current nasal infection that has not been treated
  • Are under 4 years of age
  • Have recently had nasal surgery or a nasal injury (until fully healed)

Use with caution and speak to your pharmacist or GP if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have tuberculosis (active or previously untreated)
  • Are taking other corticosteroid medicines (inhaled, oral, or topical)
  • Have glaucoma or a history of raised intraocular pressure

Known drug interactions:

  • Ritonavir (used in HIV treatment) — may significantly increase fluticasone blood levels; avoid combination
  • Ketoconazole and other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors — may increase systemic exposure to fluticasone
  • Other corticosteroids — combined use increases the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects

 

How Should You Use Flixonase Nasal Spray Correctly?

 

Using the spray correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Follow these steps each time you use it.

  1. Blow your nose gently to clear the nasal passages.
  2. Shake the bottle well before use.
  3. If using for the first time, prime the pump by pressing it several times until a fine mist appears.
  4. Tilt your head slightly forward — do not tilt it back.
  5. Insert the nozzle gently into one nostril, angling it slightly away from the nasal septum.
  6. Press the pump once (or twice if directed) while breathing in gently through your nose.
  7. Breathe out through your mouth.
  8. Repeat in the other nostril.
  9. Wipe the nozzle clean and replace the cap after use.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Allergic rhinitis (starting dose) Adults & adolescents (12+) 2 sprays per nostril Once daily (morning)
Allergic rhinitis (maintenance) Adults & adolescents (12+) 1 spray per nostril Once daily
Allergic rhinitis Children aged 4–11 1 spray per nostril Once daily (under adult supervision)

If you are also managing symptoms such as a sore throat or ear discomfort alongside your nasal allergy, our ear, nose and throat range has additional products that may help.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Flixonase Nasal Spray?

 

Like all medicines, Flixonase Nasal Spray can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the nose and throat.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Nosebleeds (epistaxis)
  • Nasal dryness or irritation
  • Unpleasant taste or smell
  • Headache

Less common side effects:

  • Nasal ulceration or crusting
  • Perforation of the nasal septum (rare, particularly with long-term use)
  • Raised intraocular pressure or glaucoma (rare)
  • Cataracts (rare with prolonged use)
  • Allergic reactions including rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing (seek immediate medical attention)

Systemic corticosteroid effects such as adrenal suppression are rare with intranasal use at recommended doses, but the risk increases if you are also using other corticosteroid medicines. If you notice any changes in your vision, stop using the spray and contact your GP promptly.

 

How Should You Store Flixonase Nasal Spray?

 

Correct storage keeps the spray effective and safe throughout its shelf life. If you are managing multiple allergy products at home, it is worth keeping everything organised and checking expiry dates regularly. You can also browse our cold and flu range for additional symptom relief during the winter months when perennial allergy symptoms can overlap with viral illness.

  • Store below 30°C — do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep the bottle upright with the cap on when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label
  • Discard after 150 doses even if liquid remains in the bottle
  • Do not share your nasal spray with anyone else

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Flixonase Nasal Spray online in the UK?

You can buy Flixonase Nasal Spray online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so you will complete a short health questionnaire before your order is approved by our pharmacist team. No GP prescription is needed for adults and children aged 4 and over. Browse our full allergy and hay fever range for complementary products.

How does Flixonase Nasal Spray work in the body?

Flixonase Nasal Spray contains fluticasone propionate, a corticosteroid that binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cells lining your nasal passages. This reduces the release of inflammatory chemicals — including histamine and leukotrienes — that cause swelling, congestion, and irritation. Because it acts locally in the nose rather than throughout your whole body, very little is absorbed into the bloodstream at recommended doses.

How do I use Flixonase Nasal Spray step by step?

Start by blowing your nose gently, then shake the bottle well. If it is a new bottle, prime the pump by pressing it several times until a fine mist appears. Tilt your head slightly forward, insert the nozzle into one nostril angled away from the septum, and press the pump while breathing in gently through your nose. Repeat in the other nostril, then wipe the nozzle and replace the cap.

What is the correct dose of Flixonase Nasal Spray for adults?

The standard starting dose for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over is two sprays into each nostril once daily, preferably in the morning. Once your symptoms are well controlled, you can reduce this to one spray per nostril once daily as a maintenance dose. Do not exceed four sprays per nostril per day under any circumstances.

When is the best time to use Flixonase Nasal Spray?

The morning is generally the best time to use Flixonase Nasal Spray, as this aligns with the once-daily dosing schedule and helps provide protection throughout the day when pollen counts are typically at their highest. For seasonal allergies, starting treatment a few days before your expected allergen exposure — such as before the grass pollen season begins — can help you get ahead of symptoms. Consistency is key: try to use it at the same time each day.

How long does Flixonase Nasal Spray take to work?

Some improvement in nasal symptoms may be noticeable within 3 to 4 hours of the first dose, but the full anti-inflammatory effect typically builds over several days of regular use. Most people experience meaningful symptom relief within 3 to 7 days of starting treatment. If you see no improvement after 7 days of use, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Can children use Flixonase Nasal Spray?

Yes — Flixonase Nasal Spray can be used by children aged 4 years and over, but always under adult supervision. Children aged 4 to 11 should use one spray into each nostril once daily. It is not suitable for children under 4 years of age, and parents should consult a GP or pharmacist before starting treatment in younger children.

What are the side effects of Flixonase Nasal Spray and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are nosebleeds, nasal dryness, and mild irritation inside the nose. These are usually mild and often improve as your nose adjusts to the spray. To reduce the risk of nosebleeds, make sure you angle the nozzle away from the nasal septum when spraying. If nosebleeds are persistent or severe, stop using the spray and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Who is not eligible to use Flixonase Nasal Spray?

You should not use Flixonase Nasal Spray if you are allergic to fluticasone propionate or any other ingredient in the formulation. It is also not suitable for children under 4 years old, people with an active untreated nasal infection, or those who have recently had nasal surgery or injury. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking ritonavir, speak to your GP before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Flixonase Nasal Spray?

If you forget to use your spray, take the missed dose as soon as you remember — unless it is almost time for your next dose, in which case simply skip the missed one. Never use a double dose to make up for a forgotten one. Missing the occasional dose is unlikely to cause a significant problem, but regular use gives the best results.

Can I use Flixonase Nasal Spray during pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should speak to your GP or midwife before using Flixonase Nasal Spray. While systemic absorption from intranasal corticosteroids is low, the safety of fluticasone propionate in pregnancy has not been fully established in clinical trials. Your doctor can help you weigh up the benefits and risks and suggest the most appropriate treatment for your situation.

Does Flixonase Nasal Spray interact with other medicines?

The most clinically significant interaction is with ritonavir, an antiretroviral medicine used in HIV treatment — this combination can significantly increase fluticasone levels in the blood and should be avoided. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole (an antifungal) may also increase systemic exposure. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

How long can you use Flixonase Nasal Spray for?

For seasonal allergic rhinitis, Flixonase Nasal Spray is typically used throughout the relevant pollen season, which may last several weeks. For perennial (year-round) allergic rhinitis, longer-term use may be appropriate under the guidance of a GP or pharmacist. If you have been using it continuously for more than 3 months, it is worth checking in with your healthcare provider to review whether ongoing treatment is still needed.

What are the alternatives to Flixonase Nasal Spray?

Other corticosteroid nasal sprays available in the UK include Beconase (beclometasone dipropionate) and Nasacort (triamcinolone acetonide). Antihistamine nasal sprays such as Rhinolast (azelastine) offer a different mechanism of action and may work faster for some people. You might also consider oral antihistamines or, if eye symptoms are prominent, antihistamine eye drops — our eye care range includes options for allergy-related eye symptoms.

What does the latest research say about fluticasone propionate nasal sprays?

Intranasal corticosteroids including fluticasone propionate are consistently recommended as first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe allergic rhinitis in current UK clinical guidelines, including those from NICE and the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Research continues to confirm that they are more effective than oral antihistamines alone for nasal congestion. They are also considered safe for long-term use at recommended doses in both adults and children aged 4 and over.

How Should You Use Flixonase Nasal Spray?

Using Flixonase Nasal Spray correctly is important — the technique affects how much of the medicine reaches the right part of your nasal lining. Take a moment to read through these steps before your first use, and refer back to them if you are unsure.

Avoid blowing your nose immediately after using the spray, as this can reduce how much medicine is absorbed. If the nozzle becomes blocked, remove it and rinse it in warm water — do not use a pin or sharp object to unblock it.

What Is the Correct Dose of Flixonase Nasal Spray?

The dose varies depending on your age and how well your symptoms are controlled. Always start with the recommended dose and reduce it once your symptoms improve. Never exceed the maximum stated dose.

The maximum dose for adults is four sprays per nostril per day. Do not exceed this. For children aged 4 to 11, the maximum is one spray per nostril once daily.

When Is the Best Time to Use Flixonase Nasal Spray?

The morning is the recommended time to use your spray, as this fits naturally with the once-daily dosing schedule and provides protection during the hours when outdoor pollen counts tend to peak. If you suffer from perennial allergic rhinitis triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites, using it at a consistent time each morning still helps maintain steady anti-inflammatory activity in the nasal lining. Try to use it at the same time every day to build a routine — this makes it less likely you will forget a dose.

For seasonal hay fever, starting treatment a few days before the pollen season begins — rather than waiting until symptoms are already severe — can make a noticeable difference to how well the spray controls your symptoms throughout the season.

How Long Can You Use Flixonase Nasal Spray For?

For seasonal allergic rhinitis, you would typically use Flixonase Nasal Spray throughout the relevant pollen season, which may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on which allergens affect you. For perennial allergic rhinitis, longer-term use may be appropriate, but you should review your treatment with a GP or pharmacist every few months to check it is still needed and working well. If your symptoms have not improved after 7 days of use, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the spray and seek medical advice.

Long-term use at recommended doses is generally considered safe, but regular review helps ensure you are using the lowest effective dose. Children using the spray long-term should have their growth monitored by their GP as a precaution.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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Understanding Potential Side Effects

Like all medicines, Flixonase Nasal Spray can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most people tolerate this treatment well, with side effects typically being mild and localised to the nose and throat area. If you're managing multiple health conditions, you might also benefit from exploring other treatments in our ear nose throat collection.

The most commonly reported side effects include nasal irritation, dryness, and occasional nosebleeds, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment. These effects often diminish as your nasal tissues adjust to the medication.

You may experience any of the following side effects:

  • Nasal dryness or irritation
  • Minor nosebleeds or blood-tinged mucus
  • Unpleasant taste or smell
  • Headache
  • Sneezing immediately after use
  • Throat irritation or dryness
  • Nasal burning or stinging sensation
  • Cough
  • Dizziness
  • Skin rash or hives (rare)
  • Eye irritation or increased tearing
  • Fatigue or drowsiness

If you experience these or any other side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist right away. For more information about reporting side effects please see the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

Frequently Asked Question


Flixonase is a corticosteroid nasal spray used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and itching caused by hay fever or other allergies.


Some people notice relief within 12 hours, but full effect may take several days of regular use.


Yes, for the best results, use it daily as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid exceeding the recommended dose.


Common side effects include mild nasal irritation, dryness, sneezing, and occasional nosebleeds. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to your pharmacist.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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What is Flixonase Nasal Spray used for?


Flixonase is a corticosteroid nasal spray used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and itching caused by hay fever or other allergies.

How long does it take to work?


Some people notice relief within 12 hours, but full effect may take several days of regular use.

Can I use Flixonase every day?


Yes, for the best results, use it daily as prescribed by your doctor. Avoid exceeding the recommended dose.

Are there any side effects?


Common side effects include mild nasal irritation, dryness, sneezing, and occasional nosebleeds. Serious side effects are rare but should be reported to your pharmacist.