GENEMIST Nasal Spray:Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions

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GENEMIST is a prescription nasal spray that contains fluticasone furoate, a powerful corticosteroid used to relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis—commonly known as hay fever or nasal allergies. This guide covers everything you need to know about GENEMIST, including how it works, how to use it safely, and what side effects to watch out for.

What Is GENEMIST and What Is It Used For?

GENEMIST is a nasal spray that delivers a fine mist containing fluticasone furoate, a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of symptoms caused by:

• Seasonal allergies (e.g. pollen from grass or trees)
• Perennial allergies (e.g. pet dander, house dust mites, mould)

These symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Nasal irritation

GENEMIST works best when used once daily, helping to control both daytime and nighttime allergy symptoms.

🧴 Note: GENEMIST is for nasal use only and should not be used in the eyes.

Who Should Not Use GENEMIST?

Avoid using GENEMIST if:

• You are allergic to fluticasone furoate or any of its other ingredients (such as benzalkonium chloride).
• You have a known hypersensitivity to steroids.

Precautions Before Using GENEMIST

Speak to your doctor before using GENEMIST if:

• You are taking other steroid-containing medicines, including creams or tablets.
• You have asthma and are using other medications for it.
• You are taking ritonavir (for HIV) or ketoconazole (for fungal infections).
• You notice blurred vision or other visual problems.
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

🧒 Children under 2 years should not use GENEMIST.

Long-term use of nasal corticosteroids like GENEMIST in children can potentially slow growth. Your doctor may monitor your child’s height if they use this product regularly.

How to Use GENEMIST Nasal Spray

General Guidelines:

• Use GENEMIST once daily, preferably at the same time each day.
• Follow your doctor’s dosage instructions exactly.
• Do not share your nasal spray with anyone else.

Dosage:

Age Group	Initial Dose	Maintenance Dose
Adults & children (12+)	2 sprays per nostril once daily	May reduce to 1 spray per nostril once symptoms are under control
Children (2–11 years)	1 spray per nostril once daily	May increase to 2 sprays per nostril once daily if needed

💡 If symptoms improve, your doctor might lower your dose.

How to Use the GENEMIST Spray Correctly

Preparing the Spray (First Use or After Cap Left Off):

1. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds with the cap on.
2. Remove the cap by squeezing the sides.
3. Press the side button 6 times to release a fine mist (away from your face).

Daily Use Instructions:

1. Shake the bottle well.
2. Blow your nose gently.
3. Tilt your head forward slightly.
4. Insert nozzle into one nostril, pointing outward.
5. As you breathe in, press the button firmly.
6. Repeat for the other nostril.
7. Replace the cap.

🚫 Never insert a pin or sharp object into the nozzle to unclog it.

Cleaning Your Nasal Spray

• After each use: Wipe the nozzle and inside of the cap with a dry, clean tissue.
• Never wash the nozzle with water or use sharp objects.
• Always replace the cap after use to avoid clogging and contamination.

What If GENEMIST Stops Working?

If the spray doesn’t work properly:

• Check the medicine level in the window.
• Make sure it is not blocked or damaged.
• Try re-priming it by repeating the steps under Preparing the Spray.

If you still have issues, contact your pharmacist or doctor.

Missed Dose or Overdose

• Missed dose? Take it when you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one—do not double up.
• Overdose? Contact your doctor immediately, especially if you used more sprays than prescribed.

Possible Side Effects of GENEMIST

Like all medicines, GENEMIST may cause side effects. Not everyone will experience them.

🚨 Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical help):

• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
• Severe skin rash or itching
• Slowed growth in children
• Nasal septum perforation (hole between nostrils)

🩺 Common Side Effects:

• Nosebleeds (more common with long-term use)
• Nasal discomfort or ulceration
• Headache

🧏‍♂️ Less Common:

• Pain, irritation, or dryness inside the nose

If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

📢 Report side effects to your healthcare provider or via SAHPRA’s reporting form.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C.
• Do not refrigerate or freeze.
• Keep the cap on when not in use.
• Use until the last day of the expiry month after opening.

Do not dispose of unused medicine in household waste. Ask your pharmacist about proper disposal.

What GENEMIST Looks Like

• GENEMIST is a white nasal spray suspension.
• It comes in an amber glass bottle inside an off-white plastic casing with a blue button and cap.
• A small window shows how much medicine remains inside.

Pack Sizes:

Spray Count	Net Content
30 sprays	4.5 g
60 sprays	6.5 g
120 sprays	10 g

📦 Not all pack sizes may be available.

Genemist Active and Inactive Ingredients

Active ingredient:

• Fluticasone furoate – 27.5 µg per spray

Other ingredients:

• Glucose anhydrous
• Dispersible cellulose
• Polysorbate 80
• Benzalkonium chloride (preservative)
• Disodium edetate (preservative)
• Purified water

Manufacturer and Registration

GENEMIST is registered by:
GlaxoSmithKline South Africa (Pty) Ltd
39 Hawkins Avenue, Epping Industria 1, 7460

Final Thoughts

GENEMIST nasal spray is a reliable treatment for seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis. When used correctly and consistently, it can significantly reduce bothersome allergy symptoms. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never use GENEMIST without proper guidance, especially for children.

✅ For best results, use GENEMIST at the same time each day, and store it properly to maintain its effectiveness.

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