First generic Flonase

FDA Consumer, May-June, 2006

The FDA has approved the first generic version of Flonase (fluticasone propionate), a drug that treats the nasal symptoms of seasonal and chronic allergies. The February 2006 generic approval gives Americans an additional, lower cost alternative when choosing prescription drug products.

Except for their price, which is much lower, generic drugs are in every way equivalent to their brand name counterparts, says Steven Galson, M.D., director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. Offering consumers a safe, effective, and reasonably priced choice "is an extremely important priority for FDA," according to Galson.

Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray contains a synthetic, trifluorinated corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory capability. Like other corticosteroids, the generic nasal spray does not have an immediate effect on allergic symptoms. A decrease in stuffiness, runniness, itching, and sneezing nasal symptoms was noted in some patients 12 hours after initial treatment.

Common side effects of the new nasal spray, manufactured by Roxane Laboratories of Columbus, Ohio, are headache, sore throat, and nosebleed.