Avamys

Avamys is a nasal spray used to treat and prevent symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis), such as watery or itchy eyes and a stuffy or runny nose. It is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline and first became available in the EU in January 2008.

Avamys contains fluticasone furoate. It is a type of medicine called a corticosteroid, more commonly known as a steroid.

It works by reducing inflammation caused by an allergen like pollen, dust mites or pet dander. It stops the release of inflammatory chemicals which relieves and prevents hay fever symptoms.

Studies have shown that Avamys is an effective hay fever treatment.

One study investigated the effects of Avamys on nasal symptoms compared to a placebo (an inactive drug). The study included 19 patients with a grass pollen allergy. Nasal swabs were taken 5 times in each patient. After 6 weeks of treatment, they found that the Avamys group had significantly fewer inflammatory cells in their nose than the placebo group.

Other research has found that Avamys significantly reduces hay fever symptoms. Patients were asked to evaluate their symptoms after treatment, and those on Avamys reported significant improvements after 2 weeks compared to a placebo.

You may start to feel improvements in your hay fever within 8-24 hours of using it. However, you will most likely see significant improvements after several days. This is because it takes some time for the steroid to build up in your system.

Avamys nasal spray is safe to take for most adults with hay fever.

Some people should consult their doctor before using Avamys. This is because they may be at a higher risk of side effects. This includes people who:

• take other steroid medicines
• have had glaucoma or cataracts
• have an untreated nasal infection
• have pulmonary tuberculosis
• have had nasal surgery

Avamys is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, always ask your doctor first before using it.

Do not use Avamys nasal spray if you are allergic to fluticasone or any of the other ingredients.

Each nasal spray contains 27.5 mcg of fluticasone. You should apply 1 spray into each nostril once a day. Your doctor may increase it to 2 sprays in each nostril if needed. You should apply it at the same time each day. This will keep symptoms at bay day and night.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip it and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.

Accidentally using too much Avamys is unlikely to cause harm. However, continuously using too much may cause side effects.

You should prepare Avamys the first time you use it or after 30 days of not using it to make sure you always get the full dose.

Preparing your Avamys spray:

1. Shake the nasal spray vigorously with the cap on for about 10 seconds.
2. Remove the cap and hold the nasal spray upright.
3. Tilt and point the spray away from you. Press the button firmly all the way in.
4. Press at least 6 times until it releases a fine mist of spray into the air.

Using your Avamys spray:

1. Shake the nasal spray vigorously and remove the cap.
2. Blow your nose to clear your nostrils.
3. Tilt your head forward a little bit and place the nozzle in one of your nostrils.
4. Point the end of the nozzle slightly outwards away from the centre ridge of your nose. This helps to get the medicine to the correct part of your nose.
5. Press the button firmly all the way in while you breathe in through your nose.
6. Take the nozzle out and breathe out through your mouth.
7. Repeat in the same nostril if you take 2 sprays in each nostril, or repeat into the second nostril.

You should clean your Avamys spray regularly. Wipe the nozzle and inside of the cap with a clean, dry tissue. Do not use water or anything sharp in the nozzle.

Avamys will last for 2 months after it has been first opened. Do not use it after 2 months or after the expiry date stated on the label and carton.

You can see how much is left in the window on the spray bottle. Shine a light onto the window to see how much liquid is left.

Like all prescription medicines, Avamys may cause side effects. The most common side effects should go away on their own once your body gets used to the medicine.

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

• minor nosebleeds (more common with 6 weeks of continuous use)
• ulcers in the nose that cause irritation
• headache
• shortness of breath

Speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any persistent or serious side effects such as difficulty breathing, feeling weak, facial swelling or skin rashes.

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

Yes, research shows Avamys is a safe and clinically-proven hay fever treatment. But if you have another medical condition or take other medication, your doctor will need to ensure it’s safe for you. Our doctors will also know whether it’s safe for you based on your medical questionnaire during the ordering process.

No, Avamys nasal spray is not available without a prescription. Our doctors will only prescribe treatment if you meet the criteria in your online consultation.

A prescription from a trusted healthcare provider like 121doc ensures:

• safety during treatment
• effective results
• monitoring of side effects