Flonase

Plain Topical Corticosteroids
Respiratory Corticosteroids
Topical Nasal Corticosteroids

Topical Administration

For topical dermatologic use only. Not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use.
Avoid contact with eyes.
Patients who fail to respond to topical fluticasone treatment after 2 weeks should be re-evaluated.
Once control of the treated condition has been achieved, discontinue fluticasone treatment. Intermittent application may be needed to maintain remission or control of the condition in some cases. The lowest effective maintenance application should be used. Other options include changing to a less potent topical corticosteroid for maintenance and control of inflammation and symptoms.

Cream/Ointment/Lotion Formulations

Wash hands before and after fluticasone application. Use gloves if required by universal precautions. Apply sparingly in a thin film and rub gently into affected area. Restrict application to the active lesions or affected areas and try to avoid normal surrounding skin.
The amount of cream or ointment needed to cover a certain area can be calculated. A 1 gram application of cream covers 100 cm2 of skin. The entire skin surface of the average size adult will be covered by 30 grams of topical steroid cream.
Fluticasone propionate preparations generally should not be used with occlusive dressings, including diapers and plastic pants. Instruct patients and caregivers not to bandage, cover, or wrap area in any way that may be occlusive unless recommended by their physician.

Inhalation Administration Oral Inhalation Administration

Oral inhalation aerosol (Flovent HFA):
NOTE: The metered-dose inhalers deliver either 44 mcg/spray, 110 mcg/spray, or 220 mcg/spray depending on the formulation selected.
Shake well before each use.
Instruct the patient on proper inhalation technique. See the inhaler's "Instructions for Use".
Flovent HFA should be primed prior to the initial use by releasing 4 sprays into the air, away from the face and other people. Shake well before each use. The inhaler should also be primed by releasing 1 spray into the air if it has not been used for 7 days or longer or if it is dropped.
For patients unable to coordinate inhalation and actuation, a spacer or valved holding chamber (VHC) may be beneficial.
The choice of using a mouthpiece versus a face mask with a spacer/VHC device must be made based on the skills and understanding of each individual patient.
In general, children less than 4 years of age require administration with a tight-fitting face mask and spacer/VHC device to achieve optimal delivery. If a face mask is used, allow 3 to 5 inhalations per actuation. Administration of fluticasone HFA via the AeroChamber Plus VHC with face mask has been shown to result in higher systemic exposure in patients ages 6 months to 3 years compared to children 4 to 11 years of age who receive the same dose without the VHC or face mask.
Have the patient rinse the mouth thoroughly with water after administration to remove fluticasone deposited in the mouth; they should not swallow the water.
The inhaler must be cleaned at least 1 time each week. Remove the canister and cap from the inhaler. Rinse the inhaler with warm water and let it air-dry overnight.
To avoid the spread of infection, do not use the inhaler for more than 1 person.
The canister contains a dose counter. The inhaler should be discarded after the counter reads "000". Although the canister is still operational and may contain medication, the accuracy of medication delivery cannot be assured. The patient should contact the pharmacist or provider regarding a refill when the counter reads "020".
 
Powder for oral inhalation (Flovent Diskus):
Prior to initial use, instruct the patient to remove the Diskus device from the moisture-protective foil pouch and to safely throw away the foil pouch. The Diskus device will be in the closed position. The patient should fill in the "Pouch opened" and "Use by" dates in the blank lines on the label. The "Use by" date for Flovent Diskus 50 mcg is 6 weeks from the date the pouch is opened. The "Use by" date for Flovent Diskus 100 mcg and 250 mcg devices is 2 months from the date the pouch is opened.
Instruct the patient on proper inhalation technique. See the inhaler's "Instructions for Use".
Open the Diskus device by holding the device in one hand and using the thumb of the other hand to push the thumb grip away as far as it will go until the mouthpiece shows and snaps into place.
Instruct the patient to hold the Diskus device in a level, flat position with the mouthpiece towards them and to slide the lever away from them as far as it will go until it clicks. The number on the dose counter will count down by 1; the Diskus device is now ready to use.
To avoid releasing a dose by mistake before the patient is ready to inhale, warn the patient not to close or tilt the Diskus device, not to play with the lever, and not to slide the lever more than once.
Before inhaling the dose, have the patient breathe out as far as they can while holding the Diskus device level and away from their mouth. They should never breathe out into the mouthpiece.
Have the patient put the mouthpiece to their lips and breathe in through the mouth quickly and deeply through the Diskus device. Remove the Diskus device from the mouth, hold the breath for about 10 seconds, or for as long as it is comfortable, and then breathe out slowly.
After taking a dose, the patient should close the Diskus device by sliding the thumb grip it back towards them far as it will go. The Diskus device will click shut. The lever will automatically return to its original position.
Have the patient rinse the mouth thoroughly with water after administration to remove fluticasone deposited in the mouth; they should not swallow the water.
To avoid the spread of infection, do not use the inhaler for more than 1 person.
The counter displays how many doses are left. The counter number will count down each time the patient uses the Diskus device. After 55 doses (23 doses from the sample pack), the patient will see numbers "5" to "0" in red to warn that there are only a few doses left.
 
Powder for oral inhalation (Arnuity Ellipta):
Administer via oral inhalation.
Instruct the patient on proper inhalation technique. See the inhaler's "Instructions for Use".
Instruct the patient to open and prepare the mouthpiece of the fluticasone inhaler and slide the cover down to activate the first dose. The counter counts down by 1 each time the patient opens the cover.
Holding the inhaler mouthpiece level to, but away from, the mouth, the patient should exhale. Then, put the mouthpiece to the lips and have the patient breathe in the dose deeply and slowly. Remove the inhaler from the mouth, hold the breath for about 3 to 4 seconds, and then exhale slowly. Close the inhaler.
If the cover is opened and closed without inhaling the medicine, the dose will be lost. The lost dose will be held in the inhaler, but it will no longer be available to be inhaled. It is not possible to accidentally take a double dose or an extra dose in one inhalation.
Have the patient rinse the mouth thoroughly with water after administration to remove fluticasone deposited in the mouth; they should not swallow the water.
Routine cleaning of the inhaler is not required; the patient can clean the mouthpiece if needed, using a dry tissue, before the cover is closed.
To avoid the spread of infection, do not use the inhaler for more than 1 person.
Discard inhaler after 30 sprays or when the counter reads "0", or when the expiration date has passed.
 
Powder for Oral Inhalation (Armonair Digihaler):
Each canister is supplied with a white inhaler with the mouthpiece and a green cap that covers the mouthpiece.
Instruct the patient on proper inhalation technique. See the inhaler's "Instructions for Use".
Do not use the DPI with a spacer or valve holding chamber (VHC) device.
Priming is not necessary.
Instruct the patient to hold the inhaler upright and open the green cap all the way back until it "clicks" immediately prior to use. The inhaler does not need to be shaken. If a "click" is not heard then the inhaler may not be activated to give the dose of medicine.
Before inhaling the dose, have the patient breathe out as far as they can while holding the DPI device level and away from their mouth. They should never breathe out into the DPI mouthpiece.
Instruct the patient to put the mouthpiece to their lips and breathe in through the mouth quickly and deeply through the DPI device without blocking the vent above the mouthpiece. Remove the DPI device from the mouth, hold the breath for about 10 seconds, and then breathe out slowly.
After taking a dose, close the cap; the cap should not be opened until the patient is ready for the next dose.
The canister contains a dose counter. The inhaler contains 60 doses (inhalations) and will change to red when 20 doses are left. Patients should be instructed to request a refill when the counter reads 20. The inhaler should be discarded after the counter reads "0".
Armonair Digihaler contains a built-in electronic module that detects, records, and stores data on inhaler events, including peak inspiratory flow rate. A mobile app is required for data transmission but is not required for the administration of fluticasone to the patient. There is no evidence the use of the mobile app leads to improved clinical outcomes, including safety and effectiveness.
Have the patient rinse the mouth thoroughly with water after administration to remove fluticasone deposited in the mouth; they should not swallow the water.
To avoid the spread of infection, do not use the inhaler for more than 1 person.
Safely dispose of the device by the specified "use by" date or when the counter reads "0", whichever comes first.

Intranasal Inhalation Administration

NOTE: Different nasal formulations are available; the fluticasone propionate nasal sprays (Flonase delivers 50 mcg/spray and Xhance delivers 93 mcg/spray); fluticasone furoate nasal spray (Flonase Sensimist delivers 27.5 mcg/spray).
 
General Nasal Administration Information
Instruct patient on the proper use of the nasal spray.
Ensure that the proper product has been selected.
Before using for the first time the unit must be primed. Keep the sprayer pointed away from patient, other people, and pets.
To avoid the spread of infection, do not use the sprayer for more than one person.
 
For fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase products): Shake well before each use. Before first use, pump the activator 6 times until a fine wide spray appears. If the unit has not been used for 7 days, re-prime the unit. After administration, wipe the nasal applicator with a clean tissue and replace the cap. The nasal applicator should be cleaned at least 1 time each week. To clean, rinse the applicator with warm tap water, taking care not to suck water into the bottle, and allow to dry at room temperature before replacing the cap.
 
For fluticasone propionate (e.g., Xhance): Shake well before each use. Before first use, prime the unit by first gently shaking and then pressing the bottle 7 times or until a fine mist appears; direct the spray into the air, away from the face. If the unit has not been used for 7 days, re-prime the unit by shaking and releasing 2 sprays, in the same manner. Fluticasone propionate is delivered into the nose by actuating the pump spray into 1 nostril while simultaneously blowing (exhaling) into the mouthpiece of the device. To administer, insert the tapered tip of the cone-shaped nosepiece deep into 1 nostril and form a tight seal between the nosepiece and the nostril. Next, place the flexible mouthpiece into the mouth, bending it as necessary to maintain a tight seal. Blow into the mouthpiece, and while continuing to blow, push the bottle up to actuate the spray pump. Continuing to blow through the mouth, but not inhaling or exhaling through the nose, at the time of actuation is important to achieve intended drug deposition. Repeat the process in the other nostril for a full dose. The unit does not need to be cleaned; if you prefer to clean it, remove the cap and use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe after each use. Replace the cap and store in a clean, dry place.
 
For fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist): Shake well before each use. Before first use, release 6 test sprays into the air away from face. If the cap has been left off the bottle for at least 5 days, or spray has not been used for more than 30 days, prime the pump again until a fine mist appears. After administration, wipe the nozzle with a clean, try tissue. Do not use water to clean the nozzle. Clean the inside of the cap with a clean, dry tissue once weekly. Discard after 120 sprays, even if the bottle is not empty.

Severe

ocular hypertension / Delayed / 1.0-2.9
nasal septum perforation / Delayed / 0.3-0.3
increased intracranial pressure / Early / Incidence not known
keratitis / Delayed / Incidence not known
visual impairment / Early / Incidence not known
skin atrophy / Delayed / Incidence not known
anaphylactoid reactions / Rapid / Incidence not known
angioedema / Rapid / Incidence not known
Churg-Strauss syndrome / Delayed / Incidence not known
vasculitis / Delayed / Incidence not known
skeletal changes / Delayed / Incidence not known
muscle paralysis / Delayed / Incidence not known
bronchospasm / Rapid / Incidence not known
cholecystitis / Delayed / Incidence not known

Moderate

dysphonia / Delayed / 2.0-19.0
conjunctivitis / Delayed / 1.0-3.0
contact dermatitis / Delayed / 1.0-3.0
migraine / Early / 1.0-3.0
cataracts / Delayed / 1.2-1.2
adrenocortical insufficiency / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) suppression / Delayed / Incidence not known
withdrawal / Early / Incidence not known
Cushing's syndrome / Delayed / Incidence not known
growth inhibition / Delayed / Incidence not known
elevated hepatic enzymes / Delayed / Incidence not known
blurred vision / Early / Incidence not known
hematoma / Early / Incidence not known
erythema / Early / Incidence not known
skin ulcer / Delayed / Incidence not known
impaired wound healing / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypotension / Rapid / Incidence not known
eosinophilia / Delayed / Incidence not known
osteopenia / Delayed / Incidence not known
osteoporosis / Delayed / Incidence not known
depression / Delayed / Incidence not known
dyspnea / Early / Incidence not known
wheezing / Rapid / Incidence not known
glycosuria / Early / Incidence not known
palpitations / Early / Incidence not known
hyperglycemia / Delayed / Incidence not known
oral ulceration / Delayed / Incidence not known
leukopenia / Delayed / Incidence not known
thrombocytopenia / Delayed / Incidence not known
bleeding / Early / Incidence not known
tolerance / Delayed / Incidence not known

Mild

headache / Early / 1.0-34.0
sinusitis / Delayed / 0-33.0
fatigue / Early / 16.0-28.0
malaise / Early / 16.0-28.0
pharyngitis / Delayed / 1.0-25.0
throat irritation / Early / 3.0-22.0
nasal congestion / Early / 4.0-22.0
arthralgia / Delayed / 17.0-17.0
insomnia / Early / 3.0-13.0
rhinitis / Early / 0-13.0
musculoskeletal pain / Early / 1.0-12.0
hoarseness / Early / 2.0-9.0
cough / Delayed / 1.0-9.0
rash / Early / 1.0-8.0
xerosis / Delayed / 7.0-7.0
fever / Early / 1.0-7.0
epistaxis / Delayed / 1.0-6.9
pruritus / Rapid / 1.0-6.0
skin irritation / Early / 2.0-5.0
back pain / Delayed / 1.0-4.0
nasal irritation / Early / 2.4-3.2
ocular irritation / Rapid / 1.0-3.0
dizziness / Early / 1.0-3.0
laryngitis / Delayed / 1.0-3.0
rhinorrhea / Early / 1.0-3.0
sneezing / Early / 1.0-3.0
dental pain / Delayed / 3.0-3.0
menstrual irregularity / Delayed / 1.0-3.0
dysmenorrhea / Delayed / 1.0-3.0
otalgia / Early / 1.0-3.0
folliculitis / Delayed / 0-1.0
xerophthalmia / Early / Incidence not known
striae / Delayed / Incidence not known
acneiform rash / Delayed / Incidence not known
telangiectasia / Delayed / Incidence not known
skin hypopigmentation / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypertrichosis / Delayed / Incidence not known
ecchymosis / Delayed / Incidence not known
urticaria / Rapid / Incidence not known
purpura / Delayed / Incidence not known
acne vulgaris / Delayed / Incidence not known
miliaria / Delayed / Incidence not known
vesicular rash / Delayed / Incidence not known
flushing / Rapid / Incidence not known
anxiety / Delayed / Incidence not known
agitation / Early / Incidence not known
restlessness / Early / Incidence not known
irritability / Delayed / Incidence not known
muscle cramps / Delayed / Incidence not known
anosmia / Delayed / Incidence not known
nasal dryness / Early / Incidence not known
rhinalgia / Early / Incidence not known
weight gain / Delayed / Incidence not known

ArmonAir Digihaler, ARNUITY ELLIPTA, BESER, ClariSpray, Cutivate, Flonase, Flonase Allergy Relief, Flonase Sensimist, Flovent Diskus, Flovent HFA, XHANCE

OTC, Rx

Synthetic fluorinated corticosteroid; available in products used topically, nasally, and by oral inhalation
Topical products are mostly of medium potency and used for corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses in adult and pediatric patients; a few products are of higher potency
Used via oral inhalation for maintenance treatment of asthma or COPD; nasal products used for allergic/non-allergic rhinitis and for nasal polyps

For asthma maintenance treatment. Respiratory (Inhalation) dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation aerosol; e.g., Flovent HFA) Adults

88 mcg (2 actuations of 44 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Base starting dosage on previous asthma therapy and asthma severity. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 880 mcg (4 actuations of 220 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

88 mcg (2 actuations of 44 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Base starting dosage on previous asthma therapy and asthma severity. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 880 mcg (4 actuations of 220 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children 4 to 11 years

88 mcg (2 actuations of 44 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, is the recommended and maximum dosage. If regimen fails to provide adequate control, reassess treatment and consider additional therapeutic options. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children 1 to 3 years†

88 mcg (2 actuations of 44 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, is the recommended and maximum dosage that has been used with a spacer device with mask. If regimen fails to provide adequate control, reassess treatment and consider additional therapeutic options. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Respiratory (Inhalation) dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; e.g., Flovent Diskus) Adults

100 mcg (1 actuation of 100 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. Larger initial doses may be considered for patients with poor asthma control or who have previously required high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 1,000 mcg (4 actuations of 250 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

100 mcg (1 actuation of 100 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. Larger initial doses may be considered for patients with poor asthma control or who have previously required high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 1,000 mcg (4 actuations of 250 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children 4 to 11 years

50 mcg (1 actuation of 50 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. Larger initial doses may be considered for patients with poor asthma control or who have previously required high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 100 mcg (2 actuations of 50 mcg/actuation or 1 actuation of 100 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Respiratory (Inhalation) dosage (fluticasone furoate inhalation powder; i.e., Arnuity Ellipta) Adults

100 mcg (1 actuation of 100 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth once daily for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Larger initial doses may be considered for patients with poor asthma control or who have previously required high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 200 mcg (2 actuations of 100 mcg/actuation or 1 actuation of 200 mcg/actuation) once daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

100 mcg (1 actuation of 100 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth once daily for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Larger initial doses may be considered for patients with poor asthma control or who have previously required high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 200 mcg (2 actuations of 100 mcg/actuation or 1 actuation of 200 mcg/actuation) once daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children 5 to 11 years

50 mcg (1 actuation of 50 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth once daily is the recommended initial and maximum dose.

Respiratory (Inhalation) dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; e.g., Armonair Digihaler) Adults

55 mcg (1 actuation of 55 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Base starting dosage on previous asthma therapy and asthma severity. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 232 mcg (1 actuation of 232 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

55 mcg (1 actuation of 55 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Base starting dosage on previous asthma therapy and asthma severity. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 232 mcg (1 actuation of 232 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

Children 4 to 11 years

30 mcg (1 actuation of 30 mcg/actuation) inhaled by mouth twice daily for patients not currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Base starting dosage on previous asthma therapy and asthma severity. May increase the dose after 2 weeks if the response is not adequate. Max: 55 mcg (1 actuation of 55 mcg/actuation) twice daily. Titrate to the lowest effective dose once asthma stability is achieved.

For the treatment of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses including atopic dermatitis, localized vitiligo, eczema, lichen planus, localized bullous pemphigoid, phimosis, and psoriasis. For the general treatment of corticosteroid-responsive dermatoses. Topical dosage (cream) Adults

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents 3 months to 17 years

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily for up to 4 weeks. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis.

Topical dosage (ointment) Adults

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis.

For the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Topical dosage (cream) Adults

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) once or twice daily until symptoms resolve. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Proactive, intermittent application of topical corticosteroids 1 to 2 times weekly to areas that commonly flare is recommended to help prevent relapses.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents 3 months to 17 years

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) once or twice daily until symptoms resolve for up to 4 weeks. If no response is seen within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Proactive, intermittent application of topical corticosteroids 1 to 2 times weekly to areas that commonly flare is recommended to help prevent relapses.

Topical dosage (lotion) Adults

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) once daily until symptoms resolve for up to 4 weeks. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Proactive, intermittent application of topical corticosteroids 1 to 2 times weekly to areas that commonly flare is recommended to help prevent relapses.

Children and Adolescents

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) once daily until symptoms resolve for up to 4 weeks. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Proactive, intermittent application of topical corticosteroids 1 to 2 times weekly to areas that commonly flare is recommended to help prevent relapses.

Topical dosage (ointment) Adults

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily until symptoms resolve. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Proactive, intermittent application of topical corticosteroids 1 to 2 times weekly to areas that commonly flare is recommended to help prevent relapses.

For the treatment of psoriasis. Topical dosage (cream) Adults

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. The duration of the therapy depends on factors such as the topical corticosteroid potency, disease severity and anatomic location, and age. After improvement, may consider transitioning to lower-potency corticosteroid, using intermittent therapy, and combining treatment with noncorticosteroidal agents. Taper by reducing use to every other day, then twice weekly, then discontinue if adequate control is maintained. Guidelines recommend class 1 to 5 topical corticosteroids for up to 4 weeks for plaque psoriasis not involving intertriginous areas and class 1 to 7 topical corticosteroids for a minimum of up to 4 weeks for scalp psoriasis. Use of topical corticosteroids for more than 12 weeks may be considered under careful supervision.

Infants, Children, and Adolescents 3 months to 17 years

Apply a thin layer topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily. If no improvement within 2 weeks, reassess diagnosis. Guidelines recommend topical corticosteroids as monotherapy for short-term treatment of localized psoriasis.

Topical dosage (ointment) Adults

Apply a thin film topically to the affected skin area(s) 2 times daily. The duration of the therapy depends on factors such as the topical corticosteroid potency, disease severity and anatomic location, and age. After improvement, may consider transitioning to lower-potency corticosteroid, using intermittent therapy, and combining treatment with noncorticosteroidal agents. Taper by reducing use to every other day, then twice weekly, then discontinue if adequate control is maintained. Guidelines recommend class 1 to 5 topical corticosteroids for up to 4 weeks for plaque psoriasis not involving intertriginous areas and class 1 to 7 topical corticosteroids for a minimum of up to 4 weeks for scalp psoriasis. Use of topical corticosteroids for more than 12 weeks may be considered under careful supervision.

For the management of symptoms associated with seasonal allergies or perennial allergies, including allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis. Nasal dosage (fluticasone furoate 27.5 mcg/spray; e.g., OTC Flonase Sensimist) Adults

2 sprays per nostril once daily (110 mcg/day) during week 1. After 1 week, 1 to 2 sprays per nostril once daily (55 to 110 mcg/day) may be used as needed. For OTC products: after 6 months of use, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

2 sprays per nostril once daily (110 mcg/day) during week 1. After 1 week, 1 to 2 sprays per nostril once daily (55 to 110 mcg/day) may be used as needed. For OTC products: after 6 months of use, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Children 2 to 11 years

1 spray per nostril once daily (55 mcg/day). Use for the shortest amount of time necessary to achieve symptom relief. For OTC products: after 2 months of daily use per year, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Nasal dosage (fluticasone propionate 50 mcg/spray; e.g., OTC Flonase Allergy Relief) Adults

2 sprays per nostril once daily (200 mcg/day) initially. After 1 week, 1 to 2 sprays per nostril once daily (100 to 200 mcg/day) may be used as needed. For OTC products: after 6 months of use, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

2 sprays per nostril once daily (200 mcg/day) initially. After 1 week, 1 to 2 sprays per nostril once daily (100 to 200 mcg/day) may be used as needed. For OTC products: after 6 months of use, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Children 4 to 11 years

1 spray per nostril once daily (100 mcg/day). Use for the shortest amount of time necessary to achieve symptom relief. Max: 1 spray per nostril daily (100 mcg/day). For OTC products: after 2 months of daily use per year, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

For the management of nasal symptoms associated with vasomotor rhinitis (perennial nonallergic rhinitis). Nasal inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate 50 mcg/spray; RX Flonase) Adults

2 sprays per nostril once daily (200 mcg/day). May also administer as 1 spray per nostril twice daily (200 mcg/day). When adequate response achieved, reduce to 1 spray per nostril once daily (100 mcg/day). Max: 2 sprays per nostril daily (200 mcg/day).

Children and Adolescents 4 years and older

1 spray per nostril once daily (100 mcg/day). May increase to 2 sprays per nostril once daily (200 mcg/day). When adequate response achieved, reduce to 1 spray per nostril once daily (100 mcg/day). Max: 2 sprays per nostril daily (200 mcg/day).

For the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Nasal inhalation dosage ( fluticasone propionate nasal spray 93 mcg/spray; i.e., Xhance) Adults

1 spray (93 mcg of fluticasone propionate per spray) in each nostril twice daily (total daily dose, 372 mcg/day). A dose of 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily may also be effective in some patients. Max: 2 sprays in each nostril twice daily (total daily dose, 744 mcg/day). Effectiveness depends on regular use; patient should use at regular intervals. Individual patients will experience a variable time to onset and different degrees of symptom relief.

For transient increase in bronchospasm† (e.g., episodic wheezing) as asthma reliever therapy. Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation aerosol; e.g., Flovent HFA) Adults

GINA recommends 88 mcg (2 oral inhalations of 44 mcg/actuation) or 110 mcg to 220 mcg (1 to 2 oral inhalations of 110 mcg/actuation) or 220 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 220 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 1,760 mcg/day.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

GINA recommends 88 mcg (2 oral inhalations of 44 mcg/actuation) or 110 mcg to 220 mcg (1 to 2 oral inhalations of 110 mcg/actuation) or 220 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 220 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 1,760 mcg/day.

Children 6 to 11 years

GINA recommends 88 mcg (2 oral inhalations of 44 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. FDA-approved Max: 176 mcg/day. NAEPP does not recommend intermittent as-needed ICS/SABA therapy in this age group because therapy has not been adequately studied.

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; i.e., Flovent Diskus) Adults

GINA recommends 100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) or 250 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 250 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 2,000 mcg/day.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

GINA recommends 100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) or 250 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 250 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 2,000 mcg/day.

Children 6 to 11 years

GINA recommends 100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. FDA-approved Max: 200 mcg/day. NAEPP does not recommend intermittent as-needed ICS/SABA therapy in this age group because therapy has not been adequately studied.

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone furoate inhalation powder; i.e., Arnuity Ellipta) Adults

GINA recommends 100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 200 mcg/day.

Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years

GINA recommends 100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 200 mcg/day.

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; e.g., Armonair Digihaler) Adults

GINA recommends 113 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 113 mcg/actuation) or 232 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 232 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 464 mcg/day.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

GINA recommends 113 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 113 mcg/actuation) or 232 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 232 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. NAEPP only recommends as-needed ICS/SABA as an option for patients with mild persistent asthma. FDA-approved Max: 464 mcg/day.

Children 6 to 11 years

GINA recommends 30 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 30 mcg/actuation) or 55 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 55 mcg/actuation) as needed whenever short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) is given. FDA-approved Max: 110 mcg/day. NAEPP does not recommend intermittent as-needed ICS/SABA therapy in this age group because therapy has not been adequately studied.

For exercise-induced bronchospasm prophylaxis†. Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation aerosol suspension; i.e., Flovent HFA) Adults

88 mcg (2 oral inhalations of 44 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 4 oral inhalations of 220 mcg/actuation twice daily (880 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

88 mcg (2 oral inhalations of 44 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 4 oral inhalations of 220 mcg/actuation twice daily (880 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children 4 to 11 years

88 mcg (2 oral inhalations of 44 mcg/actuation) twice daily is the usual and max dosage for controller therapy. Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; i.e., Flovent Diskus) Adults

100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 4 oral inhalations of 250 mcg/actuation twice daily (1,000 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 4 oral inhalations of 250 mcg/actuation twice daily (1,000 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children 4 to 11 years

50 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 50 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation twice daily (100 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone furoate inhalation powder; i.e., Arnuity Ellipta) Adults

100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) once daily, at the same time each day, is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 1 oral inhalation of 200 mcg/actuation once daily (200 mcg once daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

100 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 100 mcg/actuation) once daily, at the same time each day, is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 1 oral inhalation of 200 mcg/actuation once daily (200 mcg once daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children 5 to 11 years

50 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 50 mcg/actuation) once daily, at the same time each day, is the recommended and max dose for controller therapy. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; e.g., Armonair Digihaler) Adults

55 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 55 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 1 oral inhalation of 232 mcg/actuation twice daily (232 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children and Adolescents 12 years and older

55 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 55 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 1 oral inhalation of 232 mcg/actuation twice daily (232 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

Children 4 to 11 years

30 mcg (1 oral inhalation of 30 mcg/actuation) twice daily is a usual initial dose for controller therapy. FDA-approved Max: 1 oral inhalation of 55 mcg/actuation twice daily (55 mcg twice daily). Titrate to the lowest effective dose. Regular ICS (controller) use reduces the incidence of EIB.

For the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)† (e.g., chronic bronchitis† or emphysema†). Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; i.e., Flovent Diskus) Adults

Typical doses range from 100 to 250 mcg via oral inhalation twice daily. The optimal dose for COPD is not established, although inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are well-accepted treatments for patients at risk for exacerbation per COPD guidelines. FDA-approved Max: 2,000 mcg/day. Do not use for the relief of acute bronchospasm; use a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA). According to the Global Initiative for Chronic Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines, ICS may be used in combination with an inhaled long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) as initial therapy in group D (those with a high risk of exacerbation). Combination of a LABA with an ICS has the greatest likelihood of reducing exacerbations in patients with blood eosinophil counts of 200 cells/microL or more. An ICS combined with a LABA is more effective than the individual components in improving lung function and health status and reducing exacerbations in patients with exacerbations and moderate to very severe COPD; however clinical trials failed to demonstrate a statistically significant effect on survival. At follow-up, if the patient is still experiencing dyspnea, consider switching inhaler device and investigate for other causes of dyspnea. If the patient has exacerbations, consider triple therapy with a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), a LABA, and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).

Oral Inhalation dosage (fluticasone furoate inhalation powder; i.e., Arnuity Ellipta) Adults

A typical fluticasone furoate dose is 100 mcg via oral inhalation once daily. The optimal dose for COPD is not established, although inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are well-accepted treatments for patients at risk for exacerbation per COPD guidelines. FDA-approved Max: 200 mcg/day. Do not use for the relief of acute bronchospasm; use a short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA). According to the Global Initiative for Chronic Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines, ICS may be used in combination with an inhaled long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) as initial therapy in group D (those with a high risk of exacerbation). Combination of a LABA with an ICS has the greatest likelihood of reducing exacerbations in patients with blood eosinophil counts of 200 cells/microL or more. An ICS combined with a LABA is more effective than the individual components in improving lung function and health status and reducing exacerbations in patients with exacerbations and moderate to very severe COPD; however clinical trials failed to demonstrate a statistically significant effect on survival. At follow-up, if the patient is still experiencing dyspnea, consider switching inhaler device and investigate for other causes of dyspnea. If the patient has exacerbations, consider triple therapy with a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), a LABA, and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS).

†Indicates off-label use

Hepatic Impairment

Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in hepatic impairment are not available; however, caution is recommended in those with moderate or severe hepatic impairment. Patients with hepatic disease who are receiving fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps should be closely monitored.

Renal Impairment

Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in renal impairment are not available; it appears that no dosage adjustments are needed.

Abatacept: (Moderate) Concomitant use of immunosuppressives, as well as long-term corticosteroids, may potentially increase the risk of serious infection in abatacept treated patients. Advise patients taking abatacept to seek immediate medical advice if they develop signs and symptoms suggestive of infection.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Diphenhydramine: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine : (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Acetaminophen; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Acetaminophen; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Acetazolamide: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may increase the risk of hypokalemia if used concurrently with acetazolamide. Hypokalemia may be especially severe with prolonged use of corticotropin, ACTH. Monitor serum potassium levels to determine the need for potassium supplementation and/or alteration in drug therapy.
Adagrasib: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and adagrasib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A substrate; adagrasib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Aldesleukin, IL-2: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Alemtuzumab: (Moderate) Concomitant use of alemtuzumab with immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids may increase the risk of immunosuppression. Monitor patients carefully for signs and symptoms of infection.
Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Alogliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Alpha-glucosidase Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Altretamine: (Minor) Concurrent use of altretamine with other agents which cause bone marrow or immune suppression such as corticosteroids may result in additive effects.
Amifampridine: (Moderate) Carefully consider the need for concomitant treatment with systemic corticosteroids and amifampridine, as coadministration may increase the risk of seizures. If coadministration occurs, closely monitor patients for seizure activity. Seizures have been observed in patients without a history of seizures taking amifampridine at recommended doses. Systemic corticosteroids may increase the risk of seizures in some patients.
Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Aminolevulinic Acid: (Minor) Corticosteroids administered prior to or concomitantly with photosensitizing agents used in photodynamic therapy may decrease the efficacy of the treatment.
Aminosalicylate sodium, Aminosalicylic acid: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Amlodipine; Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin; Omeprazole: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and clarithromycin is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC): (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly.
Amphotericin B liposomal (LAmB): (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly.
Amphotericin B: (Moderate) The potassium-wasting effects of corticosteroid therapy can be exacerbated by concomitant administration of other potassium-depleting drugs including amphotericin B. Serum potassium levels should be monitored in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly.
Antithymocyte Globulin: (Moderate) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Arsenic Trioxide: (Moderate) Caution is advisable during concurrent use of arsenic trioxide and corticosteroids as electrolyte imbalance caused by corticosteroids may increase the risk of QT prolongation with arsenic trioxide.
Articaine; Epinephrine: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and epinephrine use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Corticosteroids may potentiate the hypokalemic effects of epinephrine.
Asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi: (Moderate) Concomitant use of L-asparaginase with corticosteroids can result in additive hyperglycemia. L-Asparaginase transiently inhibits insulin production contributing to hyperglycemia seen during concurrent corticosteroid therapy. Insulin therapy may be required in some cases. Administration of L-asparaginase after rather than before corticosteroids reportedly has produced fewer hypersensitivity reactions.
Aspirin, ASA: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use. (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine; Orphenadrine: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Citric Acid; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Dipyridamole: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Omeprazole: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Atazanavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and atazanavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; atazanavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Atazanavir; Cobicistat: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and atazanavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; atazanavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate. (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and cobicistat is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Atracurium: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Azathioprine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Azilsartan; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Basiliximab: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids have immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives.
Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Bismuth Subsalicylate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Bismuth Subsalicylate; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Bortezomib: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Brompheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Brompheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Bupivacaine; Epinephrine: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and epinephrine use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Corticosteroids may potentiate the hypokalemic effects of epinephrine.
Bupropion: (Moderate) Monitor for seizure activity during concomitant bupropion and corticosteroid use. Bupropion is associated with a dose-related seizure risk; concomitant use of other medications that lower the seizure threshold, such as systemic corticosteroids, increases the seizure risk.
Bupropion; Naltrexone: (Moderate) Monitor for seizure activity during concomitant bupropion and corticosteroid use. Bupropion is associated with a dose-related seizure risk; concomitant use of other medications that lower the seizure threshold, such as systemic corticosteroids, increases the seizure risk.
Butabarbital: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Butabarbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Butalbital; Aspirin; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use. (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Caffeine; Sodium Benzoate: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may cause protein breakdown, which could lead to elevated blood ammonia concentrations, especially in patients with an impaired ability to form urea. Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients receiving treatment for hyperammonemia.
Canagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Canagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Carbamazepine: (Moderate) Hepatic microsomal enzyme inducers, including carbamazepine, can increase the metabolism of fluticasone. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, and closer monitoring of clinical and/or adverse effects is warranted when carbamazepine is used with fluticasone.
Carmustine, BCNU: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Ceritinib: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ceritinib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ceritinib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Chlorambucil: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Chloramphenicol: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and chloramphenicol is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; chloramphenicol is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Chlorothiazide: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Chlorpheniramine; Dihydrocodeine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Chlorpropamide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Chlorthalidone; Clonidine: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Choline Salicylate; Magnesium Salicylate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Cisatracurium: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Clarithromycin: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and clarithromycin is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Clofarabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Cobicistat: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and cobicistat is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Codeine; Phenylephrine; Promethazine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Dapagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Dapagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Dapagliflozin; Saxagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Darunavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and darunavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; darunavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Darunavir; Cobicistat: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and cobicistat is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate. (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and darunavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; darunavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Darunavir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and cobicistat is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate. (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and darunavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; darunavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Deferasirox: (Moderate) Because gastric ulceration and GI bleeding have been reported in patients taking deferasirox, use caution when coadministering with other drugs known to increase the risk of peptic ulcers or gastric hemorrhage including corticosteroids.
Delavirdine: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and delavirdine is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; delavirdine is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Denosumab: (Moderate) The safety and efficacy of denosumab use in patients with immunosuppression have not been evaluated. Patients receiving immunosuppressives along with denosumab may be at a greater risk of developing an infection.
Desmopressin: (Major) Desmopressin is contraindicated with concomitant inhaled or systemic corticosteroid use due to an increased risk of hyponatremia. Desmopressin can be started or resumed 3 days or 5 half-lives after the corticosteroid is discontinued, whichever is longer.
Dextromethorphan; Bupropion: (Moderate) Monitor for seizure activity during concomitant bupropion and corticosteroid use. Bupropion is associated with a dose-related seizure risk; concomitant use of other medications that lower the seizure threshold, such as systemic corticosteroids, increases the seizure risk.
Dextromethorphan; Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor use; a DPP-4 dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Diphenhydramine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Dofetilide: (Major) Corticosteroids can cause increases in blood pressure, sodium and water retention, and hypokalemia, predisposing patients to interactions with certain other medications. Corticosteroid-induced hypokalemia could also enhance the proarrhythmic effects of dofetilide.
Droperidol: (Moderate) Caution is advised when using droperidol in combination with corticosteroids which may lead to electrolyte abnormalities, especially hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, as such abnormalities may increase the risk for QT prolongation or cardiac arrhythmias.
Dulaglutide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Echinacea: (Moderate) Echinacea possesses immunostimulatory activity and may theoretically reduce the response to immunosuppressant drugs like corticosteroids. For some patients who are using corticosteroids for serious illness, such as cancer or organ transplant, this potential interaction may result in the preferable avoidance of Echinacea. Although documentation is lacking, coadministration of echinacea with immunosuppressants is not recommended by some resources.
Econazole: (Minor) In vitro studies indicate that corticosteroids inhibit the antifungal activity of econazole against C. albicans in a concentration-dependent manner. When the concentration of the corticosteroid was equal to or greater than that of econazole on a weight basis, the antifungal activity of econazole was substantially inhibited. When the corticosteroid concentration was one-tenth that of econazole, no inhibition of antifungal activity was observed.
Elbasvir; Grazoprevir: (Moderate) Administering fluticasone with elbasvir; grazoprevir may result in elevated fluticasone plasma concentrations. Fluticasone is a substrate of CYP3A; grazoprevir is a weak CYP3A inhibitor. If these drugs are used together, closely monitor for signs of adverse events.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and cobicistat is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and cobicistat is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Empagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Empagliflozin; Linagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Empagliflozin; Linagliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Empagliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Ephedrine: (Moderate) Ephedrine may enhance the metabolic clearance of corticosteroids. Decreased blood concentrations and lessened physiologic activity may necessitate an increase in corticosteroid dosage.
Ephedrine; Guaifenesin: (Moderate) Ephedrine may enhance the metabolic clearance of corticosteroids. Decreased blood concentrations and lessened physiologic activity may necessitate an increase in corticosteroid dosage.
Epinephrine: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and epinephrine use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Corticosteroids may potentiate the hypokalemic effects of epinephrine.
Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Ertugliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Ertugliflozin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Ertugliflozin; Sitagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Estramustine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Estrogens: (Moderate) Monitor for corticosteroid-related adverse events if corticosteroids are used with estrogens. Concurrent use may increase the exposure of corticosteroids. Estrogens may decrease the hepatic clearance of corticosteroids thereby increasing their effect.
Exenatide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Fosamprenavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and fosamprenavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; fosamprenavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Fosphenytoin: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased corticosteroid efficacy if fluticasone is used with fosphenytoin; a dosage increase may be necessary. Concurrent use may decrease the exposure of fluticasone.
Glimepiride: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Glipizide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Glipizide; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Glyburide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Glyburide; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose producti

on and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Glycerol Phenylbutyrate: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may induce elevated blood ammonia concentrations. Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients receiving glycerol phenylbutyrate. Monitor ammonia concentrations closely.
Grapefruit juice: (Major) Instruct patients using inhaled fluticasone propionate products to avoid grapefruit juice. Patients using fluticasone furoate products should be aware of the potential for increased adverse effects if they regularly consume grapefruit juice. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; grapefruit juice is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Haloperidol: (Moderate) Caution is advisable during concurrent use of haloperidol and corticosteroids as electrolyte imbalance caused by corticosteroids may increase the risk of QT prolongation with haloperidol.
Hemin: (Moderate) Hemin works by inhibiting aminolevulinic acid synthetase. Corticosteroids increase the activity of this enzyme should not be used with hemin.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Methyldopa: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Hydroxyurea: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate; Sodium Biphosphate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance. (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia.
Ibritumomab Tiuxetan: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia. (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Idelalisib: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and idelalisib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; idelalisib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Incretin Mimetics: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Indapamide: (Moderate) Additive hypokalemia may occur when indapamide is coadministered with other drugs with a significant risk of hypokalemia such as systemic corticosteroids. Coadminister with caution and careful monitoring.
Indinavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and indinavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; indinavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Inebilizumab: (Moderate) Concomitant usage of inebilizumab with immunosuppressant drugs, including systemic corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection. Consider the risk of additive immune system effects when coadministering therapies that cause immunosuppression with inebilizumab.
Insulin Degludec; Liraglutide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Insulin Glargine; Lixisenatide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Insulins: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and insulin use; an insulin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Interferon Alfa-2b: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Irbesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Isoproterenol: (Moderate) The risk of cardiac toxicity with isoproterenol in asthma patients appears to be increased with the coadministration of corticosteroids. Intravenous infusions of isoproterenol in refractory asthmatic children at rates of 0.05 to 2.7 mcg/kg/min have caused clinical deterioration, myocardial infarction (necrosis), congestive heart failure and death.
Isotretinoin: (Minor) Both isotretinoin and corticosteroids can cause osteoporosis during chronic use. Patients receiving systemic corticosteroids should receive isotretinoin therapy with caution.
Itraconazole: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and itraconazole is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; itraconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Ketoconazole: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ketoconazole is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ketoconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In a drug interaction study, coadministration with ketoconazole increased plasma fluticasone exposure by 1.9-fold with a 45% decrease in plasma cortisol AUC, but had no effect on urinary excretion of cortisol. Ketoconazole increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Lansoprazole; Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and clarithromycin is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
L-Asparaginase Escherichia coli: (Moderate) Concomitant use of L-asparaginase with corticosteroids can result in additive hyperglycemia. L-Asparaginase transiently inhibits insulin production contributing to hyperglycemia seen during concurrent corticosteroid therapy. Insulin therapy may be required in some cases. Administration of L-asparaginase after rather than before corticosteroids reportedly has produced fewer hypersensitivity reactions.
Letermovir: (Moderate) A clinically relevant increase in the plasma concentration of fluticasone may occur if given with letermovir. In patients who are also receiving treatment with cyclosporine, the magnitude of this interaction may be amplified. Concurrent use of all 3 drugs together is not recommended because increased systemic corticosteroid adverse events may develop. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Letermovir is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor; however, when given with cyclosporine, the combined effect on CYP3A4 substrates is similar to a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In a drug interaction study, use of fluticasone with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor resulted in a 1.9-fold increase in plasma fluticasone exposure and a 45% decrease in plasma cortisol exposure, but had no effect on urinary excretion of cortisol.
Levoketoconazole: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ketoconazole is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ketoconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In a drug interaction study, coadministration with ketoconazole increased plasma fluticasone exposure by 1.9-fold with a 45% decrease in plasma cortisol AUC, but had no effect on urinary excretion of cortisol. Ketoconazole increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Lidocaine; Epinephrine: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and epinephrine use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Corticosteroids may potentiate the hypokalemic effects of epinephrine.
Linagliptin; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Liraglutide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Lisinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Lixisenatide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Lomustine, CCNU: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Lonafarnib: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and lonafarnib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; lonafarnib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Lonapegsomatropin: (Moderate) Corticosteroids can retard bone growth and therefore, can inhibit the growth-promoting effects of somatropin. If corticosteroid therapy is required, the corticosteroid dose should be carefully adjusted.
Loop diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and loop diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and loop diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Lopinavir; Ritonavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ritonavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. During post-marketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions in patients receiving inhaled fluticasone propionate with ritonavir, resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In a drug interaction study, coadministration with ritonavir increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in an 86% decrease in serum cortisol AUC. Another strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Losartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Macimorelin: (Major) Avoid use of macimorelin with drugs that directly affect pituitary growth hormone secretion, such as corticosteroids. Healthcare providers are advised to discontinue corticosteroid therapy and observe a sufficient washout period before administering macimorelin. Use of these medications together may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin growth hormone test.
Magnesium Salicylate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Mannitol: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may accentuate the electrolyte loss associated with diuretic therapy resulting in hypokalemia. Also, corticotropin may cause calcium loss and sodium and fluid retention. Mannitol itself can cause hypernatremia. Close monitoring of electrolytes should occur in patients receiving these drugs concomitantly.
Mecasermin, Recombinant, rh-IGF-1: (Moderate) Additional monitoring may be required when coadministering systemic or inhaled corticosteroids and mecasermin, recombinant, rh-IGF-1. In animal studies, corticosteroids impair the growth-stimulating effects of growth hormone (GH) through interference with the physiological stimulation of epiphyseal chondrocyte proliferation exerted by GH and IGF-1. Dexamethasone administration on long bone tissue in vitro resulted in a decrease of local synthesis of IGF-1. Similar counteractive effects are expected in humans. If systemic or inhaled glucocorticoid therapy is required, the steroid dose should be carefully adjusted and growth rate monitored.
Meglitinides: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Metformin; Repaglinide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells. (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Metformin; Rosiglitazone: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Metformin; Saxagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Metformin; Sitagliptin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Methazolamide: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may increase the risk of hypokalemia if used concurrently with methazolamide. Hypokalemia may be especially severe with prolonged use of corticotropin, ACTH. Monitor serum potassium levels to determine the need for potassium supplementation and/or alteration in drug therapy. The chronic use of corticosteroids may augment calcium excretion with methazolamide leading to increased risk for hypocalcemia and/or osteoporosis.
Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia.
Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate; Methylene Blue; Hyoscyamine: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia.
Methenamine; Sodium Salicylate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Methoxsalen: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Methyclothiazide: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Metolazone: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Metoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Metyrapone: (Major) Medications which affect pituitary or adrenocortical function, including all corticosteroid therapy, should be discontinued prior to and during testing with metyrapone. Patients taking inadvertent doses of corticosteroids on the test day may exhibit abnormally high basal plasma cortisol levels and a decreased response to the test. Although systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids is minimal, temporary discontinuation of these products should be considered if possible to reduce the potential for interference with the test results.
Micafungin: (Moderate) Leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia have been associated with micafungin. Patients who are taking immunosuppressives such as the corticosteroids with micafungin concomitantly may have additive risks for infection or other side effects. In a pharmacokinetic trial, micafungin had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of prednisolone. Acute intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria was seen in a healthy volunteer during infusion of micafungin (200 mg) and oral prednisolone (20 mg). This reaction was transient, and the subject did not develop significant anemia.
Mifepristone: (Major) Mifepristone for termination of pregnancy is contraindicated in patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy and mifepristone for Cushing's disease or other chronic conditions is contraindicated in patients who require concomitant treatment with systemic corticosteroids for life-saving purposes, such as serious medical conditions or illnesses (e.g., immunosuppression after organ transplantation). For other situations where corticosteroids are used for treating non-life threatening conditions, mifepristone may lead to reduced corticosteroid efficacy and exacerbation or deterioration of such conditions. This is because mifepristone exhibits antiglucocorticoid activity that may antagonize corticosteroid therapy and the stabilization of the underlying corticosteroid-treated illness. Mifepristone may also cause adrenal insufficiency, so patients receiving corticosteroids for non life-threatening illness require close monitoring. Because serum cortisol levels remain elevated and may even increase during treatment with mifepristone, serum cortisol levels do not provide an accurate assessment of hypoadrenalism. Patients should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, If adrenal insufficiency occurs, stop mifepristone treatment and administer systemic glucocorticoids without delay; high doses may be needed to treat these events. Factors considered in deciding on the duration of glucocorticoid treatment should include the long half-life of mifepristone (85 hours).
Mitotane: (Moderate) Use caution if mitotane and fluticasone are used concomitantly, and monitor for decreased efficacy of fluticasone and a possible change in dosage requirements. Mitotane is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; coadministration may result in decreased plasma concentrations of fluticasone.
Mitoxantrone: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Mivacurium: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Natalizumab: (Major) Ordinarily, patients receiving chronic immunosuppressant therapy should not be treated with natalizumab. Treatment recommendations for combined corticosteroid therapy are dependent on the underlying indication for natalizumab therapy. Corticosteroids should be tapered in those patients with Crohn's disease who are on chronic corticosteroids when they start natalizumab therapy, as soon as a therapeutic benefit has occurred. If the patient cannot discontinue systemic corticosteroids within 6 months, discontinue natalizumab. The concomitant use of natalizumab and corticosteroids may further increase the risk of serious infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, over the risk observed with use of natalizumab alone. In multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical trials, an increase in infections was seen in patients concurrently receiving short courses of corticosteroids. However, the increase in infections in natalizumab-treated patients who received steroids was similar to the increase in placebo-treated patients who received steroids. Short courses of steroid use during natalizumab, such as when they are needed for MS relapse treatment, appear to be acceptable for use concurrently.
Nateglinide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Nefazodone: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and nefazodone is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; nefazodone is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Nelarabine: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Nelfinavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and nelfinavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; nelfinavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Neostigmine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of anticholinesterase agents, such as neostigmine, and systemic corticosteroids may produce severe weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. If possible, anticholinesterase agents should be withdrawn at least 24 hours before initiating systemic corticosteroid therapy.
Neostigmine; Glycopyrrolate: (Moderate) Concomitant use of anticholinesterase agents, such as neostigmine, and systemic corticosteroids may produce severe weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. If possible, anticholinesterase agents should be withdrawn at least 24 hours before initiating systemic corticosteroid therapy.
Neuromuscular blockers: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Nirmatrelvir; Ritonavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ritonavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. During post-marketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions in patients receiving inhaled fluticasone propionate with ritonavir, resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In a drug interaction study, coadministration with ritonavir increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in an 86% decrease in serum cortisol AUC. Another strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Ofatumumab: (Moderate) Concomitant use of ofatumumab with corticosteroids may increase the risk of immunosuppression. Monitor patients carefully for signs and symptoms of infection. Ofatumumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressive or immune modulating therapies used for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids.
Olmesartan; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Olmesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Oxymetholone: (Moderate) Concomitant use of oxymetholone with corticosteroids or corticotropin, ACTH may cause increased edema. Manage edema with diuretic and/or digitalis therapy.
Pancuronium: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Pegaspargase: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in glucocorticoid-related adverse reactions such as hyperglycemia and osteonecrosis during concomitant use of pegaspargase and glucocorticoids.
Penicillamine: (Major) Agents such as immunosuppressives have adverse reactions similar to those of penicillamine. Concomitant use of penicillamine with these agents is contraindicated because of the increased risk of developing severe hematologic and renal toxicity.
Phenobarbital: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Phenobarbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Phenobarbital is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Phenytoin: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased corticosteroid efficacy if fluticasone is used with phenytoin; a dosage increase may be necessary. Concurrent use may decrease the exposure of fluticasone.
Photosensitizing agents (topical): (Minor) Corticosteroids administered prior to or concomitantly with photosensitizing agents used in photodynamic therapy may decrease the efficacy of the treatment.
Physostigmine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of anticholinesterase agents, such as physostigmine, and systemic corticosteroids may produce severe weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. If possible, withdraw anticholinesterase inhibitors at least 24 hours before initiating corticosteroid therapy.
Pimozide: (Moderate) According to the manufacturer of pimozide, the drug should not be coadministered with drugs known to cause electrolyte imbalances, such as high-dose, systemic corticosteroid therapy. Pimozide is associated with a well-established risk of QT prolongation and torsade de pointes (TdP), and electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia) may increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Pimozide is contraindicated in patients with known hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia. Topical corticosteroids are less likely to interact.
Pioglitazone; Glimepiride: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Pioglitazone; Metformin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and metformin use; a metformin dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Posaconazole: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and posaconazole is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; posaconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Potassium Phosphate; Sodium Phosphate: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia.
Potassium-sparing diuretics: (Minor) The manufacturer of spironolactone lists corticosteroids as a potential drug that interacts with spironolactone. Intensified electrolyte depletion, particularly hypokalemia, may occur. However, potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone do not induce hypokalemia. In fact, hypokalemia is one of the indications for potassium-sparing diuretic therapy. Therefore, drugs that induce potassium loss, such as corticosteroids, could counter the hyperkalemic effects of potassium-sparing diuretics.
Pramlintide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Prasterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA (Dietary Supplements): (Moderate) Corticosteroids blunt the adrenal secretion of endogenous DHEA and DHEAS, resulting in reduced DHEA and DHEAS serum concentrations.
Prasterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA (FDA-approved): (Moderate) Corticosteroids blunt the adrenal secretion of endogenous DHEA and DHEAS, resulting in reduced DHEA and DHEAS serum concentrations.
Prilocaine; Epinephrine: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and epinephrine use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Corticosteroids may potentiate the hypokalemic effects of epinephrine.
Primidone: (Moderate) Coadministration may result in decreased exposure to fluticasone. Primidone is a CYP3A4 inducer; fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate. Monitor for decreased response to fluticasone during concurrent use.
Promethazine; Phenylephrine: (Moderate) The therapeutic effect of phenylephrine may be increased in patient receiving corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. Monitor patients for increased pressor effect if these agents are administered concomitantly.
Propranolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood sugar during concomitant corticosteroid and propranolol use due to risk for hypoglycemia. Concurrent use may increase risk of hypoglycemia because of loss of the counter-regulatory cortisol response.
Propranolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood sugar during concomitant corticosteroid and propranolol use due to risk for hypoglycemia. Concurrent use may increase risk of hypoglycemia because of loss of the counter-regulatory cortisol response. (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Purine analogs: (Minor) Concurrent use of purine analogs with other agents which cause bone marrow or immune suppression such as other antineoplastic agents or immunosuppressives may result in additive effects.
Pyridostigmine: (Moderate) Concomitant use of anticholinesterase agents, such as pyridostigmine, and corticosteroids may produce severe weakness in patients with myasthenia gravis. If possible, anticholinesterase agents should be withdrawn at least 24 hours before initiating corticosteroid therapy.
Quinapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Repaglinide: (Moderate) Monitor patients receiving antidiabetic agents closely for worsening glycemic control when corticosteroids are instituted and for signs of hypoglycemia when corticosteroids are discontinued. Systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are known to increase blood glucose and worsen glycemic control in patients taking antidiabetic agents. The main risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids are the dose of steroid and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Ribociclib: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ribociclib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ribociclib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Ribociclib; Letrozole: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ribociclib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ribociclib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Ritonavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and ritonavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. During post-marketing use, there have been reports of clinically significant drug interactions in patients receiving inhaled fluticasone propionate with ritonavir, resulting in systemic corticosteroid effects including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In a drug interaction study, coadministration with ritonavir increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in an 86% decrease in serum cortisol AUC. Another strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Rituximab: (Moderate) Rituximab and corticosteroids are commonly used together; however, monitor the patient for immunosuppression and signs and symptoms of infection during combined chronic therapy.
Rituximab; Hyaluronidase: (Moderate) Rituximab and corticosteroids are commonly used together; however, monitor the patient for immunosuppression and signs and symptoms of infection during combined chronic therapy.
Rocuronium: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Salicylates: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Salsalate: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and salicylate use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. In patients receiving concomitant corticosteroids and chronic use of salicylates, withdrawal of corticosteroids may result in salicylism because corticosteroids enhance renal clearance of salicylates and their withdrawal is followed by return to normal rates of renal clearance.
Saquinavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and saquinavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; saquinavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Sargramostim, GM-CSF: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sargramostim and systemic corticosteroid agents due to the risk of additive myeloproliferative effects. If coadministration of these drugs is required, frequently monitor patients for clinical and laboratory signs of excess myeloproliferative effects (e.g., leukocytosis). Sargramostim is a recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor that works by promoting proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic progenitor cells.
Semaglutide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
SGLT2 Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Sodium Benzoate; Sodium Phenylacetate: (Moderate) Corticosteroids may cause protein breakdown, which could lead to elevated blood ammonia concentrations, especially in patients with an impaired ability to form urea. Corticosteroids should be used with caution in patients receiving treatment for hyperammonemia.
Sodium Phenylbutyrate: (Moderate) The concurrent use of corticosteroids with sodium phenylbutyrate may increase plasma ammonia levels (hyperammonemia) by causing the breakdown of body protein. Patients with urea cycle disorders being treated with sodium phenylbutyrate usually should not receive regular treatment with corticosteroids.
Sodium Phenylbutyrate; Taurursodiol: (Moderate) The concurrent use of corticosteroids with sodium phenylbutyrate may increase plasma ammonia levels (hyperammonemia) by causing the breakdown of body protein. Patients with urea cycle disorders being treated with sodium phenylbutyrate usually should not receive regular treatment with corticosteroids.
Sodium Phosphate Monobasic Monohydrate; Sodium Phosphate Dibasic Anhydrous: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia.
Somapacitan: (Moderate) Patients treated with glucocorticoid replacement for hypoadrenalism may require an increase in their maintenance or stress steroid doses following initiation of somapacitan. Monitor for signs/symptoms of reduced serum cortisol concentrations. Growth hormone (GH) inhibits 11betaHSD-1. Consequently, patients with untreated GH deficiency have relative increases in 11betaHSD-1 and serum cortisol. The initiation of somapacitan may result in inhibition of 11betaHSD-1 and reduced serum cortisol concentrations.
Somatrogon: (Moderate) Monitor for a decrease in serum cortisol concentrations and corticosteroid efficacy during concurrent use of corticosteroids and somatrogon. Patients treated with glucocorticoid replacement for hypoadrenalism may require an increase in their maintenance or stress steroid doses following initiation of somatrogon. Additionally, supraphysiologic glucocorticoid treatment may attenuate the growth promoting effects of somatrogon. Carefully adjust glucocorticoid replacement dosing to avoid hypoadrenalism and an inhibitory effect on growth.
Somatropin, rh-GH: (Moderate) Corticosteroids can retard bone growth and therefore, can inhibit the growth-promoting effects of somatropin. If corticosteroid therapy is required, the corticosteroid dose should be carefully adjusted.
Sotagliflozin: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and SGLT2 inhibitor use; a SGLT2 inhibitor dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Spironolactone; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Succinylcholine: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Sulfonylureas: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Testosterone: (Moderate) Monitor for fluid retention during concurrent corticosteroid and testosterone use. Concurrent use may result in increased fluid retention.
Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Thiazolidinediones: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazolidinedione use; a thiazolidinedione dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Tipranavir: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and tipranavir is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; tipranavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Tirzepatide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and incretin mimetic use; an incretin mimetic dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticostero id dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Tolazamide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Tolbutamide: (Moderate) Monitor blood glucose during concomitant corticosteroid and sulfonylurea use; a sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be necessary. Corticosteroids may increase blood glucose concentrations. Risk factors for impaired glucose tolerance due to corticosteroids include the corticosteroid dose and duration of treatment. Corticosteroids stimulate hepatic glucose production and inhibit peripheral glucose uptake into muscle and fatty tissues, producing insulin resistance. Decreased insulin production may occur in the pancreas due to a direct effect on pancreatic beta cells.
Tositumomab: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Tretinoin, ATRA: (Minor) Because systemically administered corticosteroids exhibit immunosuppressive effects when given in high doses and/or for extended periods, additive effects may be seen with other immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents.
Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative, PPD: (Moderate) Immunosuppressives may decrease the immunological response to tuberculin purified protein derivative, PPD. This suppressed reactivity can persist for up to 6 weeks after treatment discontinuation. Consider deferring the skin test until completion of the immunosuppressive therapy.
Tucatinib: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and tucatinib is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; tucatinib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor potassium concentrations during concomitant corticosteroid and thiazide diuretic use due to risk for additive hypokalemia; potassium supplementation may be necessary. Both corticosteroids and thiazide diuretics cause increased renal potassium loss.
Vecuronium: (Moderate) Limit the period of use of neuromuscular blockers and corticosteroids and only use when the specific advantages of the drugs outweigh the risks for acute myopathy. An acute myopathy has been observed with the use of high doses of corticosteroids in patients receiving concomitant long-term therapy with neuromuscular blockers. Clinical improvement or recovery after stopping therapy may require weeks to years.
Vigabatrin: (Major) Vigabatrin should not be used with corticosteroids, which are associated with serious ophthalmic effects (e.g., retinopathy or glaucoma) unless the benefit of treatment clearly outweighs the risks.
Vincristine Liposomal: (Moderate) Use sodium phosphate cautiously with corticosteroids, especially mineralocorticoids or corticotropin, ACTH, as concurrent use can cause hypernatremia.
Vonoprazan; Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin: (Major) Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and clarithromycin is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate. Increased systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression, may occur. Fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate; clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In drug interaction studies, coadministration with strong inhibitors increased plasma fluticasone exposure resulting in 45% to 86% decreases in serum cortisol AUC. A strong inhibitor increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol; this change does not necessitate dose adjustment of fluticasone furoate.
Voriconazole: (Moderate) Monitor for potential adrenal dysfunction with concomitant use of voriconazole and fluticasone. In patients taking corticosteroids, voriconazole-associated CYP3A4 inhibition of their metabolism may lead to corticosteroid excess and adrenal suppression. Corticosteroid exposure is likely to be increased. Concomitant administration of another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased plasma fluticasone propionate exposure resulting in a 45% to 86% decrease in serum cortisol AUC and increased fluticasone furoate exposure by 1.33-fold with a 27% reduction in weighted mean serum cortisol. Voriconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, and fluticasone is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Vorinostat: (Moderate) Use vorinostat and corticosteroids together with caution; the risk of QT prolongation and arrhythmias may be increased if electrolyte abnormalities occur. Corticosteroids may cause electrolyte imbalances; hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia, or hypocalcemia and may increase the risk of QT prolongation with vorinostat. Frequently monitor serum electrolytes if concomitant use of these drugs is necessary.
Warfarin: (Moderate) Monitor the INR if warfarin is administered with corticosteroids. The effect of corticosteroids on warfarin is variable. There are reports of enhanced as well as diminished effects of anticoagulants when given concurrently with corticosteroids; however, limited published data exist, and the mechanism of the interaction is not well described. High-dose corticosteroids appear to pose a greater risk for increased anticoagulant effect. In addition, corticosteroids have been associated with a risk of peptic ulcer and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Zafirlukast: (Minor) Zafirlukast inhibits the CYP3A4 isoenzymes and should be used cautiously in patients stabilized on drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, such as corticosteroids.

ArmonAir Digihaler/ARNUITY ELLIPTA Respiratory (Inhalation) Inhalant: 1actuation, 50mcg, 55mcg, 100mcg, 113mcg, 200mcg, 232mcg
BESER/Cutivate/Fluticasone Propionate Topical Lotion: 0.05%
ClariSpray/Flonase/Flonase Allergy Relief/Flonase Sensimist/Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray Met: 1actuation, 27.5mcg, 50mcg
Cutivate/Fluticasone Propionate Topical Cream: 0.05%
Cutivate/Fluticasone Propionate Topical Ointment: 0.005%
Flovent Diskus Respiratory (Inhalation) Pwd: 1actuation, 50mcg, 100mcg, 250mcg
Flovent HFA/Fluticasone Propionate Respiratory (Inhalation) Aer Met: 1actuation, 44mcg, 110mcg, 220mcg
XHANCE Intrasinal Spray Met: 1actuation, 93mcg

In general, corticosteroid dosage must be individualized and is highly variable depending on the nature and severity of the disease, route and product of administration, and on patient age and response. For some products maximum dosage limits have not been specified.

Adults

Topical: Twice daily application for cream/ointment; once daily application for lotion.
Intranasal: 110 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist); 200 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase, Flonase Allergy); 744 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps (Xhance).
Inhaler maximum dosages: 2,000 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) (Flovent Diskus); 464 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate DPI (Armonair Digihaler); 200 mcg/day via fluticasone furoate DPI (Arnuity Ellipta); 1,760 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA).

Geriatric

Topical: Twice daily application for cream/ointment; once daily application for lotion.
Intranasal: 110 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist); 200 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase, Flonase Allergy); 744 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps (Xhance).
Inhaler maximum dosages: 2,000 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) (Flovent Diskus); 464 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate DPI (Armonair Digihaler); 200 mcg/day via fluticasone furoate DPI (Arnuity Ellipta); 1,760 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA).

Adolescents

Topical: Twice daily application for cream/ointment; once daily application for lotion.
Intranasal: 110 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist); 200 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase, Flonase Allergy). Safety and efficacy not established for fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps (Xhance).
Inhaler maximum dosages: 2,000 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) (Flovent Diskus); 464 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate DPI (Armonair Digihaler); 200 mcg/day via fluticasone furoate DPI (Arnuity Ellipta); 1,760 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA).

Children

12 years:
Topical: Twice daily application for cream/ointment; once daily application for lotion.
Intranasal: 110 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist); 200 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase, Flonase Allergy). Safety and efficacy not established for fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps (Xhance).
Inhaler maximum dosages: 2,000 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) (Flovent Diskus); 464 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate DPI (Armonair Digihaler); 200 mcg/day via fluticasone furoate DPI (Arnuity Ellipta); 1,760 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA).
 
5 to 11 years:
Topical: Twice daily application for cream/ointment; once daily application for lotion.
Intranasal: 55 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist); 200 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase, Flonase Allergy). Safety and efficacy not established for fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps (Xhance).
Inhaler maximum dosages: 200 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) (Flovent Diskus), however doses of up to 400 mcg/day off-label have been used for asthma; 176 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA) per FDA-approved labeling, however, doses of 352 mcg/day or more have been used off-label for asthma; 50 mcg/day via fluticasone furoate DPI (Arnuity Ellipta); 110 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate DPI (Armonair Digihaler).
 
4 years:
Topical: Twice daily application for cream; once daily application for lotion.
Intranasal: 55 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (e.g., Flonase Sensimist); 200 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone propionate (e.g., Flonase, Flonase Allergy). Safety and efficacy not established for fluticasone propionate for nasal polyps (Xhance).
Inhaler maximum dosages: 200 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) (Flovent Diskus); 176 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA) per FDA-approved labeling, however, doses of 352 mcg/day or more have been used off-label for asthma; 110 mcg/day via fluticasone propionate DPI (Armonair Digihaler). Safety and efficacy of fluticasone furoate DPI (Arnuity Ellipta) have not been established.
 
2 to 3 years: Twice daily application for cream; once daily application for lotion; 55 mcg/day intranasally for fluticasone furoate (Flonase Sensimist). Fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA) has been used off-label in treatment of asthma. Safety and efficacy have not been established for other formulations.
 
1 year: Twice daily application for cream; once daily application for lotion. Fluticasone propionate MDI (Flovent HFA) has been used off-label in treatment of asthma. Safety and efficacy have not been established for other formulations.

Infants

3 months and older: Twice daily application for cream; once daily application for lotion. Safety and efficacy have not been established for other formulations.
1 to 2 months: Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Neonates

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Topical corticosteroids exhibit anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. At the cellular level, corticosteroids induce peptides called lipocortins. Lipocortins antagonize phospholipase A2, an enzyme which causes the breakdown of leukocyte lysosomal membranes to release arachidonic acid. This action decreases the subsequent formation and release of endogenous inflammatory mediators including prostaglandins, kinins, histamine, liposomal enzymes and the complement system. Early anti-inflammatory effects of topical corticosteroids include the inhibition of macrophage and leukocyte movement and activity in the inflamed area by reversing vascular dilation and permeability. Later inflammatory processes such as capillary production, collagen deposition, keloid (scar) formation also are inhibited by corticosteroids. Clinically, these actions correspond to decreased edema, erythema, pruritus, plaque formation and scaling of the affected skin.
 
In the treatment of asthma, orally inhaled corticosteroids block the late phase allergic response to allergens. Mediators involved in the pathogenesis of asthma include histamine, leukotrienes (slow releasing substance of anaphylaxis, SRS-A), eosinophil chemotactic factor of anaphylaxis (ECF-A), neutrophil chemotactic factor (NCF), cytokines, hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids, prostaglandin-generating factor of anaphylaxis (PGF-A), prostaglandins, major basic protein, bradykinin, adenosine, peroxides, and superoxide anions. Different cell types are responsible for release of these mediators including airway epithelium, eosinophils, basophils, lung parenchyma, lymphocytes, macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils, and platelets. Corticosteroids inhibit the release of these mediators as well as inhibit IgE synthesis, attenuate mucous secretion and eicosanoid generation, up-regulate beta-receptors, promote vasoconstriction, and suppress inflammatory cell influx and inflammatory processes. Clinical effects in asthma include a reduction in bronchial hyperresponsiveness to allergens, a decreased number of asthma exacerbations, and an improvement in FEV1, peak-flow rate, and respiratory symptoms. Since corticosteroid effects take several hours to days to become clinically noticeable, they are ineffective for primary treatment of severe acute bronchospastic attacks or for status asthmaticus. Inhaled corticosteroids have no bronchodilatory properties.
 
In the treatment of allergies, intranasal fluticasone reduces allergic responses of several cell types (e.g., mast cells and eosinophils) involved in the allergic response by the same cellular mechanism as the topical corticosteroids. Clinically, symptoms such as rhinorrhea and postnasal drip, nasal congestion, sneezing, and pharyngeal itching are reduced. In vitro studies indicate that the binding affinity of fluticasone furoate for the human glucocorticoid receptor is 1.7 and 29.9 times that of fluticasone propionate and dexamethasone, respectively. The clinical significance of these findings is currently unknown.
 
In the treatment of nasal polyps, the precise mechanism through which intranasal fluticasone propionate affects nasal polyps and associated inflammatory symptoms is not known. Corticosteroids have been shown to have a wide range of effects on multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, cytokines) involved in inflammation. The anti-inflammatory action of corticosteroids contributes to their efficacy. In 7 trials in adults, fluticasone propionate nasal spray decreased nasal mucosal eosinophils in 66% of patients (35% for placebo) and basophils in 39% of patients (28% for placebo). In addition, studies suggest that carbon dioxide, which is present in the exhaled breath delivered into the nose through the device, may influence inflammatory mediator activity and neuropeptide activity, possibly through mechanisms of action that also include removal of nitric oxide, change in pH, or positive pressure. The direct relationship of these findings to long-term symptom relief is not known.

Fluticasone is administered by oral respiratory inhalation, intranasal spray, or by topical application to the skin. Based on studies using intravenous fluticasone propionate, the average volume of distribution (Vd) is 4.2 L/kg (range 2.3 to 16.7 L/kg) and distribution is rapid because of high lipid solubility and tissue binding. Protein binding of fluticasone is more than 90%. The drug is weakly and reversibly bound to erythrocytes and is not significantly bound to human transcortin. The only circulating metabolite of fluticasone detected in man is the 17beta-carboxylic acid derivative, which is formed through the CYP3A4 pathway; this metabolite has negligible pharmacologic activity. Excretion is primarily in the feces as parent drug and metabolites; less than 5% of a dose is excreted in the urine as metabolites. The terminal elimination half-life is approximately 7.8 hours; the half-life of intravenous fluticasone furoate averages 15 hours while half-life after oral inhalation averages 11.2 to 24 hours.
 
Affected cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoenzymes and drug transporters: CYP3A4
The potential for fluticasone to inhibit or induce metabolic enzymes and transporter systems is negligible at low respiratory inhalation doses. However, fluticasone is a substrate of CYP3A4, and systemic exposure after oral inhalational use may increase when coadministered with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, potentially resulting in a reduction of mean serum cortisol concentrations. Coadministration of inhaled fluticasone propionate and a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 is not recommended; use caution with inhaled fluticasone furoate.

Topical Route

While systemic absorption is usually minimal, topical corticosteroids can penetrate normal intact skin; however, inflammation, skin disease, and occlusive dressing may enhance absorption. In a study of 12 healthy males, 12.5 grams of 0.05% fluticasone propionate cream twice daily for 3 weeks resulted in undetectable plasma concentrations (less than 0.05 ng/mL). In another study of 6 healthy volunteers, 25 grams of the same formulation under occlusion for 5 days yielded plasma concentrations of 0.07 to 0.39 ng/mL. When 25 grams of 0.0005% fluticasone propionate ointment was applied to healthy volunteers twice daily for 5 days under occlusion, plasma concentrations ranged from 0.08 to 0.22 ng/mL. In a rat model, 80% of radiolabeled 0.05% fluticasone propionate cream or ointment (1 g/kg over 24 hours) was recovered at the end of 7 days; 73% was found at the application site surface, less than 1% was in the skin, and approximately 5% was absorbed systemically. Skin absorption continued for the length of the trial, indicating long retention time at the application site.

Inhalation Route

Orally inhaled fluticasone acts locally in the lung; therefore, plasma concentrations do not predict therapeutic effect.
 
Fluticasone propionate aerosol (e.g., Flovent HFA)
Oral systemic bioavailability of fluticasone propionate is negligible (less than 1%), primarily due to incomplete absorption and first pass metabolism in the gut and liver. In contrast, the majority of the drug delivered to the lung is systemically absorbed. In a pharmacokinetic analysis of 215 patients receiving fluticasone metered-dose inhaler (MDI) 88 mcg twice daily, the mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) at steady state was 20 pg/mL in patients 12 years and older; data indicated a dose-related increase in systemic exposure. Patients receiving fluticasone MDI 220 mcg (n = 15) or 440 mcg (n = 17) twice daily yielded a mean Cmax of 47.3 pg/mL and 87 pg/mL at steady state, respectively.
 
Fluticasone propionate inhalation powder (e.g., Flovent Diskus)
Oral systemic bioavailability of fluticasone propionate is negligible (less than 1%), primarily due to incomplete absorption and first pass metabolism in the gut and liver. In contrast, the majority of the drug delivered to the lung is systemically absorbed. The absolute bioavailability of fluticasone propionate dry powder inhaler (DPI) averages 7.8%.
 
Fluticasone furoate inhalation powder (e.g., Arnuity Ellipta)
Oral systemic bioavailability of fluticasone furoate is negligible (approximately 1%), primarily due to incomplete absorption and first pass metabolism in the gut and liver. The absolute bioavailability of fluticasone furoate dry powder inhaler (DPI) is 14%, primarily due to absorption of the inhaled portion of the dose delivered to the lung. Peak plasma concentrations are obtained 0.5 to 1 hour after administration. Systemic exposure (AUC) in subjects with asthma is 26% lower than observed in healthy patients. At steady state, the rate and extent of systemic exposure in children aged 5 to 11 years were comparable to that observed in adult and adolescent patients after dosing with fluticasone furoate 100 mcg monotherapy.
 
Fluticasone propionate inhalation powder (e.g., Armonair Digihaler)
Oral systemic bioavailability of fluticasone propionate is negligible (approximately 1%), primarily due to incomplete absorption and first pass metabolism in the gut and liver. Peak plasma concentrations are obtained 1 hour after administration.

Other Route(s)

Intranasal Route
Fluticasone furoate nasal spray (e.g., Flonase Sensimist)
The average absolute bioavailability of intranasal fluticasone fluticasone furoate is less than 0.5%. Most of an intranasal fluticasone dose is swallowed; studies using oral dosing have demonstrated systemic bioavailability is less than 1% due to incomplete absorption in the gut and first pass metabolism in the liver.
 
Fluticasone propionate nasal spray (e.g., Flonase)
The average absolute bioavailability of intranasal fluticasone propionate is less than 2%.
 
Fluticasone propionate nasal spray (e.g., Xhance)
Due to the low bioavailability by the intranasal route, the majority of the pharmacokinetic data were obtained via other routes of administration. Local exposure within the nasal cavity with this product will differ when used without exhalation through the device. The mean (SD) peak exposure (Cmax) and total exposure (AUC) following administration of fluticasone propionate 186 mcg during exhalation were 17.2 +/- 7.40 pg/mL and 111.7 +/- 49.75 pg x hours/mL, respectively, and were 25.3 +/- 10.34 pg/mL and 171.7 +/- 85.55 pg x hours/mL, respectively, following a dose of fluticasone propionate 372 mcg in healthy subjects. The Cmax and AUC following a dose of fluticasone propionate 372 mcg in patients with mild to moderate asthma were 28.7 +/- 18.72 pg/mL and 222.6 +/- 84.60 pg x hours/mL, respectively.

Pregnancy

There are no randomized clinical studies of fluticasone during pregnancy; there are clinical considerations with the use of fluticasone in pregnant women. Fluticasone should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Infants born to mothers taking substantial corticosteroid doses during pregnancy should be monitored for signs of hypoadrenalism. Available data from published literature on the use of inhaled or intranasal fluticasone propionate in pregnant women have not reported a clear association with adverse developmental outcomes. Fetal abnormalities have been reported in the off-spring of mice, rats, and rabbits exposed to the medications during gestation. Teratogenicity characteristic of corticosteroids, decreased fetal body weight, and skeletal variations was noted in the off-spring of mice, rats, and rabbits exposed to subcutaneous fluticasone at doses less than the maximum recommended human daily inhaled dose (MRHDID) on a mg/m2 basis. When inhaled fluticasone propionate was administered to rats, fetal body weight was decreased, but teratogenicity was not induced at a maternal toxic dose approximately 0.13 times the MRHDID (on a mg/m2 basis with a maternal inhalation dose of 25.7 mcg/kg/day). Experience with oral corticosteroids suggests that rodents are more prone to teratogenic effects from corticosteroid exposure than are humans. Inhaled corticosteroids are often preferred over systemic corticosteroids when use cannot be avoided for the management of asthma during pregnancy. Low-dose inhaled corticosteroids are considered first line therapy for control of mild persistent asthma during pregnancy according to the 2004 guidelines of the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) Asthma and Pregnancy Working Group. Data on the use of medium to high dose inhaled corticosteroid during pregnancy are limited. However, dose titration may be considered for those with moderate to severe persistent asthma, preferably using budesonide. Due to the availability of safety information during pregnancy, budesonide is preferred over other inhaled corticosteroids. However, there are no data to indicate safety concerns with other inhaled corticosteroids, and maintaining a previously established treatment regimen may be more beneficial to the patient. Selection of any pharmacologic treatment for asthma control during pregnancy should include the specific needs of the patient, based on an individual evaluation, and consideration of the potential benefits or risks to the fetus. Similarly, other fluticasone formulations, such as intranasal fluticasone, should be avoided unless the potential therapeutic benefit justifies the added risk to the fetus. Fluorinated topical corticosteroid creams and ointments, like fluticasone, are not recommended for use in pregnancy. Lower potency topical corticosteroids are usually used, if needed.

Fluticasone via inhalation typically results in low systemic concentrations; therefore, the amount excreted into breast-milk after inhalation or nasal use is expected to be very low. Reviewers and an expert panel consider inhaled and oral corticosteroids acceptable to use during breast-feeding. Low-dose inhaled corticosteroids are considered first line therapy for control of mild persistent asthma during lactation. Due to greater availability of data, budesonide is the preferred agent in this population. However, there are no data to indicate safety concerns with other inhaled corticosteroids and maintaining a previously established treatment regimen may be more beneficial to the patient. It is not known whether topical administration of fluticasone could result in sufficient systemic absorption to produce detectable quantities in breast milk. However, most dermatologists stress that topical corticosteroids can be safely used during lactation and breast-feeding. If applied topically, care should be used to ensure the infant will not come into direct contact with the area of application, such as the breast. Increased blood pressure has been reported in an infant whose mother applied a high potency topical corticosteroid ointment directly to the nipples. Consider the benefits of breast-feeding, the risk of potential infant drug exposure, and the risk of an untreated or inadequately treated condition.