Avamys nasal spray

Avamys is a steroid nasal spray used to treat and prevent symptoms caused by hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis), pet or dust mite allergies. It is also effective for those with allergies that occur throughout the year (perennial allergic rhinitis).

Avamys works by reducing inflammation in the nostrils and providing direct relief to symptoms such as sneezing; a blocked, itchy or runny nose; as well as itchy, watery or red eyes.

Avamys contains fluticasone furoate which is a corticosteroid, meaning it is a synthetic version of the steroids your body produces naturally.

It works by reducing your immune system’s response to an allergen, whether it’s pollen, pet dander or house dust mites. It does so by binding to the receptors of various immune cells in your nasal passage, stopping them from releasing histamine and triggering an allergic reaction.

By doing so, this prevents your body from triggering an immune response, which is what causes inflammation and symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Avamys is not to be confused with Flixotide. Whilst they both contain fluticasone, Flixotide is an inhaler used to treat asthma symptoms.

How long does Avamys take to work?

Avamys typically starts to work within your first day of using it (around 8 - 24 hours) However, you may only start to feel the full effects and maximum benefit of the medication after a few days.

Avamys is suitable for most adolescents over the age 18 with allergic rhinitis. Whilst it is suitable for children who are 6 to 11 years of age, you should consult your doctor as the recommended dose will be different.

You should not take Avamys if you are allergic to fluticasone or any of the other ingredients listed in the patient information leaflet.

In some cases, your doctor may want to monitor your treatment closely if you have any other medical conditions. This includes those who:

• have had glaucoma (increase in pressure in the eye)
• have had cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye)
• have or have had any liver problems
• are pregnant, breastfeeding or think they may be pregnant

If you have any preexisting conditions, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before using any new medications to ensure it’s suitable for you to take.

Avamys is available as a 27.5 microgram dose, meaning each spray contains 27.5 mcg of fluticasone. The typical dose is two sprays in each nostril once a day.

If you want to check how many sprays you have left, hold the nasal spray upright against a bright light and you will be able to see the level through the window on the bottle.

Below is a brief guide to preparing, using and cleaning your nasal spray. For a full guide with diagrams, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

How to prepare Avamys nasal spray

You must prepare the nasal spray before using it if:

• this is your first time using it
• you have left the cap off for 5 days
• it has not been used for 30 days or more
• if it doesn’t appear to be working

To prepare the nasal spray before use, do the following:

1. With the cap still on, shake the nasal spray vigorously for 10 seconds.
2. Remove the cap by squeezing both sides of it firmly with your thumb and forefinger.
3. Hold the spray upright, then tilt and point the spray away from you.
4. Press the button on the side of the bottle firmly. Do this at least 6 times until it releases a fine mist of spray into the air.
5. Once you have seen this fine mist, the spray is ready for use.

If you find that your nasal spray isn’t working, don’t attempt to spray it into your nose. Check for damage, check the medicine levels or ask your pharmacist to check it if you are in any doubt.

How to administer Avamys nasal spray

To use Avamys nasal spray, complete the following steps:

1. Shake the nasal spray vigorously.
2. Remove the cap.
3. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils.
4. Tilt your head back.
5. Place the nozzle in one of your nostrils, pointing it slightly outwards and away from the centre ridge of your nose.
6. Press the button firmly and breathe in through your nose whilst you do so.
7. Take the nozzle out and breathe out through your mouth.
8. Repeat steps 4 - 6 if your dose is 2 sprays in each nostril.
9. Then, repeat steps 4 - 7 to treat your other nostril.
10. Once you’re finished with your spray, replace the cap.

How to clean your Avamys nasal spray

You should clean your nasal spray after each use.

To clean your spray, simply wipe the nozzle and inside of the cap with a clean, dry tissue. Always replace the cap after cleaning it.

You must not use water or anything sharp on the nozzle to clean or clear it.

As with all prescription medicines, you may experience some side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Some common side effects of Avamys include:

Allergic reactions to Avamys are quite rare, but are still possible. If you experience any sudden breathing difficulties, feeling weak or lightheaded, swelling or skin rashes, you should stop taking Avamys and seek immediate medical attention.

For a full list of side effects of Avamys, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

Avamys should not be used in conjunction with any other steroid nasal sprays (e.g Mometasone).

Other medicines that may interact with Avamys include:

• other steroids (injections, tablets or creams)
• asthma medicines
• ritonavir - used to treat HIV
• ketoconazole - used to treat fungal infections

If you’re not sure whether you take any of these medications, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Always inform your prescriber of any medications you currently take, including any over-the-counter, prescription or herbal medicines so that they can ensure Avamys is suitable for you to use.

You can buy Avamys 27.5mcg online here at euroClinix. All you have to do is complete a short medical consultation which will be reviewed by one of our UK registered doctors. Once they have approved you for treatment, your medication will be delivered to your doorstep the very next day, at no extra cost.