Flonase Side Effects

Generic name: fluticasone nasal

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 31, 2025.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Flonase Side Effects associated with fluticasone nasal. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Flonase.

Applies to fluticasone nasal: nasal spray.

Serious side effects of Flonase

Along with its needed effects, fluticasone nasal (the active ingredient contained in Flonase) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur while taking fluticasone nasal:

More common side effects

• bloody mucus or unexplained nosebleeds
• cough
• headache
• nausea
• shortness of breath
• vomiting

Less common side effects

• diarrhea
• dizziness
• excessive mucus
• fever
• general aches and pains
• loss of appetite
• stomach pain
• weakness
• runny nose

Rare side effects

• white patches inside nose or throat

Symptoms of overdose

• blindness
• blurred vision
• bone fractures
• excess facial hair growth in females
• fullness of face, neck, and trunk
• high blood pressure
• impotence in males
• increased thirst or urination
• lack of menstrual periods
• muscle wasting
• weakness

Other side effects of Flonase

Some side effects of fluticasone nasal may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

• burning, dryness, or other irritation inside the nose
• sore throat

Less common side effects

• runny nose

For healthcare professionals

Applies to fluticasone nasal: nasal spray.

General adverse events

The most commonly reported side effects were nasopharyngitis, epistaxis, and pyrexia.^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache, unpleasant taste, unpleasant smell^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Toothache, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal distension, vomiting, gastrointestinal gaseous symptoms
• Frequency not reported: Gum signs and symptoms^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis, angioedema, rash, urticaria, bronchospasm)^[Ref]

Ocular

• Common (1% to 10%): Conjunctivitis
• Very rare (less than 0.01%): Cataracts, glaucoma, raised intraocular pressure
• Frequency not reported: Transient ocular changes^[Ref]

Immunologic

• Frequency not reported: Candida albicans infection, immunosuppression^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Very common (10% or more): Nasopharyngitis (26%), epistaxis (20%)
• Common (1% to 10%): Pharyngolaryngeal pain, nasal ulceration, cough, pharyngitis, bronchitis, nasal dryness, throat irritation, throat dryness, blood in nasal mucosa, nasal irritation
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Rhinalgia, nasal discomfort (including nasal burning, nasal soreness)
• Postmarketing reports: Nasal septal perforation^[Ref]

Endocrine

• Frequency not reported: Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis effects (including growth reduction)^[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

• Common (1% to 10%): Back pain^[Ref]

Other

• Very common (10% or more): Pyrexia
• Frequency not reported: Impaired wound healing^[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

• What are the risks of using Flonase long-term?
• How often can you use Flonase nasal spray?
• Which is stronger, Flonase OTC or prescription?
• How long does it take for Flonase to work?
• What's the difference between Xhance and Flonase Allergy Relief?
• Is Flonase Sensimist the same as Veramyst?
• Flonase vs Nasacort: What is the difference?
• Flonase vs Nasonex: What's the difference?

Further information

Flonase side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer