samaelislegion asked
Can I still use my Flonase with Klonopin?
Answer
There are no drug interactions between Flonase (fluticasone) and Klonopin (clonazepam). Flonase is used as an intranasal spray, but much of the dose actually gets swallowed down the esophagus. Flonase is not well absorbed in the gut and less than 1% of the total dose becomes concentrated in the blood. With this small amount of the drug being absorbed, Flonase does not have a high risk for drug interactions. See below for more information on both Flonase and Klonopin.
Flonase Information
Flonase was approved by the FDA in 1990, but has only been available over-the-counter since 2014. Flonase is a type of steroid that blocks inflammation, itching, and congestion. According to the Flonase website, it has some advantages over oral antihistamines including working better for nasal congestion. Flonase can be used once daily with 1 or 2 sprays into each nostril or may be used as needed instead of every day.
Klonopin Information
Klonopin is useful in treatment of certain seizure disorders, panic disorders, and has been used off-label for insomnia and restless leg syndrome. Klonopin and other benzodiazepines work in the central nervous system to enhance the relationship between GABA and benzodiazepine receptors. Because GABA is the predominant inhibitory neurotransmitter, this effect leads to reduction in seizures and anxiety and may lead to sedation. Klonopin was first FDA approved back in 1975.
Klonopin takes about 20-60 minutes to start working and reaches peak concentration in 1-4 hours. The effect of Klonopin usually lasts about 12 hours, but has a half-life of 19-50 hours. This is much longer than other benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan). Elderly patients should generally avoid the use of Klonopin because of the risk of falls, confusion, and over-sedation. This is due to the long half-life of the drug and the decreased renal and hepatic metabolism in geriatrics.
