Drug Groups

approved; investigational

Description

Flunisolide (marketed as AeroBid, Nasalide, Nasarel) is a corticosteroid often prescribed as treatment for allergic rhinitis.

The principle mechanism of action of flunisolide is to activate glucocorticoid receptors. It also has anti-inflammatory action.

Indication

For the maintenance treatment of asthma as a prophylactic therapy.

Pharmacology

Flunisolide is a synthetic corticosteroid. It is administered either as an oral metered-dose inhaler for the treatment of asthma or as a nasal spray for treating allergic rhinitis. Corticosteroids are naturally occurring hormones that prevent or suppress inflammation and immune responses. When given as an intranasal spray, flunisolide reduces watery nasal discharge (rhinorrhea), nasal congestion, postnasal drip, sneezing, and itching oat the back of the throat that are common allergic symptoms.

Affected Organisms

Biotransformation

Primarily hepatic, converted to the S beta-OH metabolite.

Absorption

Absorbed rapidly

Half Life

1.8 hours

Protein Binding

Approximately 40% after oral inhalation

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