Flovent Is an Inhaled Corticosteroid Used to Prevent Asthma Symptoms

Flovent (Fluticasone Propionate) is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 4 and older. It's a daily prevention medication — not a rescue inhaler — that reduces airway inflammation to keep asthma symptoms under control.

What Is Flovent?

Flovent is the brand name for Fluticasone Propionate, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). It belongs to the inhaled corticosteroid drug class, which is the cornerstone of asthma maintenance therapy.

Flovent was available in two formulations:

• Flovent HFA — A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) available in 44 mcg, 110 mcg, and 220 mcg per actuation
• Flovent Diskus — A dry powder inhaler (DPI) available in 50 mcg, 100 mcg, and 250 mcg per inhalation (now discontinued)

Important update: GSK discontinued brand-name Flovent HFA and Flovent Diskus in January 2024. However, authorized generic Fluticasone Propionate HFA inhalers are now available in the same strengths as the original Flovent HFA. The medication inside is identical. For more on the discontinuation and its impact, see our Flovent shortage update.

Flovent is not a controlled substance — no DEA scheduling, no special prescribing requirements.

What Is Flovent Used For?

FDA-Approved Uses

• Maintenance treatment of asthma as prophylactic (preventive) therapy in patients aged 4 years and older

Flovent is meant to be used every day to prevent asthma symptoms. It does not provide immediate relief during an asthma attack — you still need a rescue inhaler like Albuterol for that.

Off-Label Uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe Fluticasone Propionate for conditions beyond its FDA-approved indication:

• Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) — Swallowed Fluticasone (not inhaled) is used to treat this inflammatory condition of the esophagus.
• COPD — Fluticasone is used in combination products for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, though the standalone inhaler is primarily indicated for asthma.
• Chronic cough — When cough is caused by underlying airway inflammation.

How Is Flovent Taken?

Flovent (or its authorized generic) is inhaled twice daily, at evenly spaced intervals — typically morning and evening. Here's what you need to know about proper use:

• Shake the HFA inhaler well before each use.
• Prime the inhaler if it's new or hasn't been used in 7 or more days — spray 4 test puffs into the air away from your face.
• Inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth while pressing down on the canister.
• Hold your breath for about 10 seconds after inhaling.
• Rinse your mouth with water after each use and spit it out. This is critical for preventing oral thrush, one of the most common side effects.
• Use a spacer device if recommended by your doctor — it helps more medication reach your lungs.

Never use Flovent for sudden breathing problems. Keep your rescue inhaler (Albuterol) available at all times for acute symptoms.

Dosage

Dosing depends on age and asthma severity:

• Adults and adolescents (12+): Starting dose is typically 88 mcg twice daily. Can range from 88–880 mcg twice daily depending on severity.
• Children (4–11 years): Recommended starting dose is 88 mcg twice daily.

Your doctor will prescribe the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects. Dosing categories for adults:

• Low dose: 88–264 mcg per day
• Medium dose: 264–440 mcg per day
• High dose: More than 440 mcg per day

It can take 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use before you notice the full benefit. Don't stop taking it because you feel better — that's a sign it's working.

Who Should Not Take Flovent?

Flovent is not appropriate for everyone. You should not use Flovent if you have:

• A known allergy to Fluticasone Propionate or any of the inhaler's inactive ingredients
• Status asthmaticus or an acute asthma attack that needs emergency treatment — Flovent won't help in an emergency
• A severe milk protein allergy — the Diskus formulation contained lactose from milk (the HFA/generic inhaler does not have this issue)

Tell your doctor if you have liver problems (hepatic impairment can increase systemic exposure), are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (Pregnancy Category C), are taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like Ritonavir or Ketoconazole (these drugs can dramatically increase Flovent's effects in your body), or have any active infections. For a complete rundown on interactions, see our Flovent drug interactions guide.

For more on potential side effects, read our detailed guide on Flovent side effects.

How Much Does Flovent Cost?

The cost depends on whether you have insurance and which strength you need:

• Without insurance: The authorized generic Fluticasone Propionate HFA inhaler costs approximately $50–$150, depending on the strength (44 mcg, 110 mcg, or 220 mcg).
• With insurance: Most insurance plans and Medicare Part D cover the generic inhaler on Tier 2–3. Copays are typically $10–$50. Prior authorization may be required for higher strengths.
• Brand-name Flovent HFA used to cost $250–$350 before it was discontinued.

If cost is a barrier, check our guide on how to save money on Flovent for discount cards, patient assistance programs, and other options. You can also use Medfinder to compare pharmacy prices near you.

Final Thoughts

Flovent (Fluticasone Propionate) remains one of the most widely used inhaled corticosteroids for asthma management. Although the brand name was discontinued, the authorized generic is the same medication at the same strengths. If you're new to Flovent or restarting it, work with your doctor to find the right dose, use proper inhaler technique, and keep up with regular checkups. If you need help finding the medication or getting the best price, Medfinder can help.