Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is Flovent HFA, and you should use it as directed by your doctor. If you use it consistently, it can help you control your asthma and breathe better. 

Flovent HFA is not a 'rescue inhaler', so it can't treat sudden shortness of breath. 

Before each use, shake the inhaler for 5 seconds. Then, exhale forcefully. Place your mouth over the mouthpiece and push down on the canister while inhaling slowly and deeply. Hold your breath to keep the dose in your lungs for up to 10 seconds, and then breathe normally. After your dose, you should rinse your mouth with water and then spit out the water. This is important to reduce your chances of getting an infection in your mouth or throat. You should ask your pharmacist to observe your inhaler technique. 

This medicine is usually well-tolerated. Still, some side effects can occur, like a cough, hoarseness, sore throat or head or chest infections like the common cold. These are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking it, please talk with your doctor or pharmacist. But, don't suddenly stop taking it unless your doctor says it's okay. 

You should call your doctor right away if you ever feel your breathing is worse, or if you notice any unusual changes to your body. 

Please follow the written instructions for priming and cleaning your inhaler. 

For best results, plan ahead for refills, and read the 'Patient Information' leaflet for full information.