Nasal polyps result from chronic inflammation and occur high and deep within your nasal passages. This makes them difficult to see with a routine nasal exam. In fact, you may not even know you have nasal polyps.
Symptoms of nasal polyps last at least 3 months and include at least 2 of the following 4 symptoms:
Talk to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or allergist to find out if you have nasal polyps. They can diagnose nasal polyps by examining the inside of your nose, often with the use of a special scope.
Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous (or benign) growths that occur high and deep in the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. You may not be aware you have them. Nasal polyps result from chronic inflammation. Because nasal polyps and associated inflammation block passages high and deep in the nose, standard nasal sprays may have a hard time reaching them. This may be why you’re not getting the relief you need.
Nasal polyps have 4 core symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose or postnasal drip, facial pain or pressure, and reduced sense of smell. A doctor will usually look for nasal polyps when symptoms last at least 3 months and include at least 2 of the 4 symptoms.
Headache is a common symptom reported by people with nasal polyps; however, there are other conditions that may cause headache, like migraine or more serious conditions. You should always talk to your doctor about headaches or any other symptoms you may be having.
Nasal polyps occur high and deep in the nasal passages, so it is likely that you will not be able to see them in a mirror. They are even difficult for your doctor to see in a routine nasal exam. When you see a specialist, they use special tools to help them see and diagnose nasal polyps.
Scientists don't yet fully understand what causes nasal polyps. They cannot predict why some people develop long-term inflammation or why this irritation and swelling (inflammation) trigger polyps to form in some people and not in others.
Any condition that triggers long-term irritation and swelling in your nasal passages or sinuses, such as infections or allergies, may increase your risk of developing nasal polyps. They are associated with asthma, recurring infections, allergies, drug sensitivity, and certain immune disorders. Your family history also may play a role.
It’s not always possible to prevent nasal polyps from returning; however, you may be able to reduce your chances of having them recur. As always, ask your doctor what they suggest.
There are 2 types of specialists who are trained to treat nasal polyps: ENTs and allergists. ENTs specialize in treating conditions that affect the ear, nose, and throat, including nasal polyps. They may also perform sinus surgery if you need it. Allergists specialize in diagnosing and treating allergies, which can cause long-term sinus problems associated with nasal polyps.
Nasal polyps can cause complications because they block normal airflow and fluid drainage due to long-term irritation and swelling (inflammation).
Potential complications include:
XHANCE is the only FDA-approved prescription nasal spray that uses the Exhalation Delivery System to treat nasal polyps in adults. XHANCE is a different kind of nasal spray—it uses your own breath to help deliver medicine high and deep into nasal passages to the source of the problem.
In clinical trials, XHANCE improved the symptoms of nasal polyps, such as nasal congestion, as early as 2 weeks after initiation and continued to improve them over time.* Regular use for several months may be needed for best results.
In addition, XHANCE significantly reduced the size of nasal polyps.
*In 16-week clinical trials.Yes. XHANCE and FLONASE® are different products. While both contain the same active ingredient, fluticasone propionate, XHANCE is the only FDA-approved prescription nasal spray that uses the Exhalation Delivery System. This unique system uses your own breath to deliver medicine high and deep into the nasal passages. FLONASE® has not been FDA-approved for the treatment of nasal polyps. In addition, XHANCE has a different formulation and strength.
FLONASE® is a registered trademark of the GSK group of companies.
No. XHANCE is free of alcohol, fragrances, dyes, gluten, and lactose.
The most common side effects of XHANCE include:
These are not all the side effects of XHANCE. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
XHANCE may cause serious side effects, including:
Weakened immune system and increased chance of getting infections (immunosuppression). Taking medicines that weaken your immune system makes you more likely to get infections and can make certain infections worse. These infections may include tuberculosis (TB), herpes simplex infections of the eyes (ocular herpes simplex infections), and infections caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Avoid contact with people who have a contagious disease such as chickenpox or measles while using XHANCE. If you come in contact with someone who has chickenpox or measles, call your healthcare provider right away. Symptoms of an infection may include:
Reduced adrenal function (adrenal insufficiency). Adrenal insufficiency happens when your adrenal glands do not make enough steroid hormones. This can happen when you stop taking oral corticosteroid medicines (such as prednisone) and start taking medicine containing a steroid inhaled into the lungs or for use in the nose. Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency may include:
The most common side effects of XHANCE include:
These are not all the side effects of XHANCE. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. XHANCE and certain other medicines may interact with each other. This may cause side effects.
It’s important to tell your healthcare provider if you take antifungal or anti-HIV medicines. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
XHANCE is a prescription medication used to treat nasal polyps in adults. Your healthcare provider will determine if XHANCE is right for you.
Before using XHANCE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions and medications you are taking.
Do not use XHANCE if you are allergic to fluticasone propionate or any of the other ingredients in XHANCE. See Patient Information for a complete list of ingredients in XHANCE.
In clinical trials, XHANCE was shown to be safe in studies lasting up to 1 year. Your doctor will help you determine how long you should be on XHANCE.
For step-by-step instructions on how to use XHANCE, watch the XHANCE How to Use Video.
Remember these tips:
For full instructions on how to use XHANCE, please see the FDA-approved Instructions for Use.
You will need to prime XHANCE before you use it for the first time. Simply remove the cap, shake, and use your thumb to press the bottle 7 times into the air (away from your face) or until you see a fine mist.
If you have not used XHANCE for 7 or more days, re-prime by spraying 2 times before use.
After correctly inserting the XHANCE mouthpiece and nosepiece, exhale through your mouth like you are blowing up a balloon. While continuing to blow, use your thumb to press up on the bottle. This will release the medicine into your nostril so that it reaches high and deep into your nose.
Go to How to Use for step-by-step instructions.
You may not feel the medicine going in because XHANCE uses your breath to help deliver the medicine high and deep into your nose. This does not mean that your device is not working correctly.
XHANCE works differently than traditional nasal sprays. When you exhale into the device, your soft palate creates a natural seal that may limit the amount of medicine that can drip down your throat. As a result, medicine is directed to where it is needed to help treat your nasal polyps and related symptoms.
Yes; after using XHANCE in 1 nostril, repeat the same steps for the other nostril. Use XHANCE exactly as your doctor tells you.
Always use XHANCE exactly as your doctor tells you to. Do not use XHANCE more often than prescribed and ask your doctor if you have any questions. Taking XHANCE as prescribed—without missing doses—is an important part of reaching your treatment goals. For full details on how to use XHANCE, see the FDA-approved Instructions for Use.
If you miss a dose of XHANCE, take it as soon as you remember the same day. Do not take more than your prescribed dose of XHANCE each day.
Yes. XHANCE fits in any handbag or carry-on, making it easy to use on the go; however, it is recommended that you keep XHANCE in its original packaging, especially if taking it on a flight. Check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for rules and regulations in your area regarding medications.
You do not need to clean XHANCE. If you’d prefer to clean the device, remove the cap and use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe.
Please DO NOT REMOVE the protective base. The base may provide additional support when the product is stored upright and was designed to protect the bottle, which is made of glass, from being damaged or broken if it is dropped or hit too hard.
The XHANCE bottle is made of glass. Do not remove the base. If you accidentally drop XHANCE, check it for damage. Do not use if the device is damaged or the glass is broken. If damaged, call 1.833.678.6673.
To make sure that your device is working correctly, follow these steps:
XHANCE includes a preservative that is intended to prevent bacterial growth.
We have upgraded our packaging and added a seal to the closure of the carton to replace the seal of the tray, reducing plastic waste. If this seal is missing or broken please call 1.833.678.6673.
Yes. The expiration date is printed on the label of each bottle. XHANCE provides 120 sprays, which will last 30 days at 1 spray per nostril twice a day. If it is prescribed as 2 sprays per nostril twice a day, XHANCE will last 15 days.
Throw XHANCE away after using 120 sprays (after initial priming). Even though the bottle may not be completely empty, you may not get the correct dose of medicine if you continue to use it.
XHANCE is available by prescription, so you must speak to your healthcare provider to see if XHANCE is right for you.
If you use the XHANCE Preferred Pharmacy Network and you are an eligible and commercially insured patient, you may be able to get XHANCE for a $0 copay. Additionally, you can have your prescription delivered right to your home or any address you choose. Go to How to Get XHANCE and Save to find out more.
XHANCE is covered by most health insurance plans. If you have commercial health insurance and are eligible, you may be able to use the XHANCE Preferred Pharmacy Network to receive your prescription for a $0 copay. Go to How to Get XHANCE and Save for terms and conditions and more.
To learn more about your options for saving on XHANCE, go to How to Get XHANCE and Save.
If you don't have health insurance, there are options available to support you. Call 1-833-4XHANCE or click on Patient Assistance Program for information about how you can save.
Yes. If you use the XHANCE Preferred Pharmacy Network, you can have your prescription delivered right to your home or any address you choose. Go to How to Get XHANCE and Save to find out more.
This printable PDF is your guide to working with your healthcare provider and taking XHANCE. It includes everything you need to get started, such as basic health information about nasal polyps and XHANCE. It also has information about how to get XHANCE using the XHANCE Preferred Pharmacy Network, questions to ask your healthcare provider, and room to take notes during your appointments.
Download Patient Resource Kit
This printable brochure provides information about XHANCE, how to use it, and signs and symptoms of nasal polyps.
This is a quick reference guide showing how to prime and use XHANCE nasal spray. Save it on your mobile phone or print it out for when you need it.
Download instructions
If you think you may have nasal polyps, use this short questionnaire* to see if your symptoms match up. You can fill it out by first downloading and saving it to your smart phone or computer, or print it out to bring to your next appointment. Share it with your ENT or allergist to discuss whether XHANCE may be right for you.
*This is not a diagnostic tool. Only your doctor can diagnose your condition. Download questionnaire
This useful tool can help you find a specialist in your area who is familiar with treating nasal polyps.
Optinose is providing access to this service to help patients find healthcare professionals in their area who have experience with ENT/Allergy. Optinose makes no warranty as to the credentials, skill, or outcomes of the listed providers. This healthcare professional locator tool is provided for informational purposes only, and is just one source of information available to you.
Download the XHANCE Copay Savings Card and save on your XHANCE prescription at your local pharmacy.†
†Not valid for patients enrolled in federal or state programs. Click here for additional terms and conditions. Download copay cardFind out how Brian's nasal polyp symptoms improved with XHANCE
Hear David's story with XHANCE and how it helped his congestion
Learn how to use XHANCE
Aprende a usar XHANCEGet Dr. Murphy’s perspective on treating nasal polyps
XHANCE is a prescription medicine used to treat chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps in adults. It is not known if XHANCE is safe and effective in children.
These are not all the side effects of XHANCE. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Please see Patient Information, full Prescribing Information and Instructions for Use.
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