What is Avamys?

Avamys Nasal Spray is a prescription-only corticosteroid developed to treat allergic rhinitis, including both hay fever and perennial allergies. Its active ingredient, fluticasone furoate, exerts a potent anti-inflammatory effect by reducing swelling in the nasal passages. This, in turn, alleviates common symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itching. Unlike decongestant sprays, which may offer only short-term relief, Avamys targets the underlying inflammatory process, providing sustained symptom management with a once-daily dosing schedule.

Developed after extensive research and clinical trials, Avamys has established itself as a reliable treatment option for patients experiencing nasal allergies. Its targeted mechanism of action makes it particularly effective in moderating the immune response triggered by allergens, thus preventing the cascade of inflammatory reactions that lead to discomfort. Patients who use Avamys regularly experience not only immediate symptom relief but also a reduction in the frequency and severity of allergic episodes over time.

What is Avamys Used For?

Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever): Avamys is used to alleviate symptoms caused by seasonal allergens such as pollen. It helps clear blocked nasal passages and reduces sneezing and runny nose.

Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: For those with year-round allergies, such as from dust mites, pet dander, or mold, Avamys offers continuous relief by mitigating persistent inflammation in the nasal mucosa.

Nasal Congestion: By reducing inflammation, Avamys effectively relieves nasal blockage, enabling easier breathing and enhanced comfort.

At 123Meds, Avamys is offered exclusively for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. If you require treatment for other nasal conditions or need further guidance on managing your symptoms, please consult your GP or medical practitioner who can provide tailored advice and alternative treatment options if necessary.

How Avamys Works?

Avamys operates through a well-understood mechanism that involves the suppression of the inflammatory response within the nasal passages. The active compound, fluticasone furoate, binds to glucocorticoid receptors, thereby inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, histamines, and prostaglandins. This inhibition leads to a reduction in vascular permeability and edema, which are primary contributors to nasal congestion and irritation.

Reduces Inflammation: Fluticasone furoate effectively dampens the body’s inflammatory response, leading to decreased swelling and improved nasal airflow.

Blocks Allergy Symptoms: By preventing the release of histamine and other pro-inflammatory substances, Avamys minimizes the intensity of sneezing, itching, and nasal discharge.

Provides Sustained Symptom Control: With consistent use, Avamys not only treats acute symptoms but also helps to maintain long-term control over allergic reactions, making it an ideal choice for patients with chronic nasal allergies.

Through its targeted action, Avamys ensures that patients experience rapid relief from nasal symptoms while also reducing the likelihood of recurrent episodes, thereby enhancing overall quality of life.

Can Avamys Be Purchased Over the Counter?

Avamys Nasal Spray is classified as a prescription-only medication in the UK. This restriction ensures that the medication is used appropriately under the guidance of a healthcare professional. A consultation with a GP or prescriber is essential to evaluate the suitability of Avamys for your specific condition and to establish the correct dosage regimen.

This approach not only guarantees the safe use of the medication but also allows for personalized treatment adjustments based on your overall health profile and the severity of your symptoms.

Patients are advised to adhere strictly to the prescribed instructions to achieve the best therapeutic outcomes. Should you have any concerns or if your symptoms persist despite treatment, it is important to seek further medical advice promptly.

Alternative Medications

For patients who may not respond adequately to Avamys or who experience intolerable side effects, there are several alternative prescription options available in the UK. UK regulatory authorities also approve these alternatives and offer similar anti-inflammatory benefits for the management of allergic rhinitis.

Flixonase Nasal Spray: Another fluticasone-based nasal spray that offers comparable efficacy in reducing nasal inflammation and allergy symptoms.

Nasonex (Mometasone Furoate) Spray: A corticosteroid nasal spray that provides robust anti-inflammatory action, suitable for both seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis.

Beconase Nasal Spray: A beclometasone-based formulation used to manage mild to moderate allergic symptoms with a favorable safety profile.

Note: All alternative medications listed are prescribed within the UK. It is crucial to consult with your prescriber before switching treatments to ensure that the alternative aligns with your specific medical needs and circumstances.

How to Use Avamys Nasal Spray?

For optimal results, please follow the instructions below:

Dosage Guidelines:

Adults & Adolescents (12 years and older): The recommended dosage is 2 sprays per nostril once daily. This provides a total daily dose of 110 micrograms.

Children (6-11 years): The advised dose is 1 spray per nostril once daily, ensuring a total daily dose of 55 micrograms. If symptoms persist, your prescriber may consider an increase to 2 sprays per nostril with caution.

Step-by-Step Application Instructions:

Shake the Bottle Gently: Ensure the solution is well mixed before use.
Remove the Protective Cap: Take care not to contaminate the nozzle.
Positioning: Tilt your head slightly forward. Insert the nozzle into one nostril while keeping the other nostril closed.
Administer the Spray: Press the pump firmly to deliver the required dose while inhaling gently through your nose.
Repeat for the Other Nostril: Ensure even application by administering the correct dose in both nostrils.
Clean the Nozzle: Wipe the tip with a clean tissue and replace the cap immediately to prevent contamination.

Storage Instructions:

Store Avamys Nasal Spray upright at room temperature (not exceeding 25°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze the product. Once opened, use within the time frame specified in the patient information leaflet (typically 2 months) to ensure maximum efficacy and safety.

Additional Usage Tips:

Avoid blowing your nose immediately after application to allow the medication to settle.
If you use other nasal products, space out their administration to prevent interference with Avamys.
Follow up with your prescriber if you experience any difficulties with administration or if the spray appears to be clogging.

Active Ingredient:

Fluticasone Furoate (27.5 micrograms per spray): This potent corticosteroid is responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects that alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Inactive Ingredients:

Dextrose Anhydrous: Serves as a stabilising agent in the solution.
Microcrystalline Cellulose: Aids in the formulation's consistency.
Polysorbate 80: Acts as a solubiliser to help distribute the active ingredient evenly.
Benzalkonium Chloride (Preservative): Ensures the sterility of the product by preventing microbial growth.
Purified Water: The solvent that forms the base of the nasal spray.

Note: Inactive ingredients may vary between manufacturers. Always refer to the patient information leaflet accompanying your product for a comprehensive list of ingredients and to check for potential allergens.

Common Side Effects:

Nosebleeds (Epistaxis): Some patients may experience minor bleeding from the nose, which is usually transient.
Mild Throat Irritation: A slight discomfort or irritation in the throat may occur following administration.
Nasal Dryness or Discomfort: Temporary dryness in the nasal passages is possible, though it often subsides with continued use.
Headache: A mild headache can be a common side effect for some users.

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

Blurred Vision or Eye Discomfort: Although rare, some individuals might experience visual disturbances or eye pain.
Persistent or Severe Nosebleeds: If nosebleeds become frequent or severe, it is important to consult your prescriber.
Signs of an Allergic Reaction: These may include swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. In such cases, immediate medical attention is required.

If any severe side effects occur, such as marked visual changes, ongoing nasal bleeding, or symptoms indicative of a severe allergic reaction, seek immediate medical help from your GP, NHS111, or A&E to avoid complications.