Why is this medication prescribed?

Aerospan HFA (flunisolide) is a corticosteroid inhaler prescribed primarily for the maintenance treatment of asthma. It works by reducing inflammation in the airways, helping to prevent asthma symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Aerospan HFA is not meant for the immediate relief of acute asthma attacks but is used for long-term control of asthma symptoms.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Aerospan HFA:

• Shake Well: Before using the inhaler, shake it well for a few seconds.
• Priming: If you are using the inhaler for the first time or if you haven’t used it in a while, you may need to prime it by spraying a few test sprays into the air.
• Exhale: Breathe out fully to empty your lungs.
• Inhalation: Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, close your lips around it, and press down on the canister while taking a slow, deep breath in. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds to allow the medication to reach deep into your lungs.
• Spacer: Aerospan HFA comes with a built-in spacer, which helps to ensure that more of the medication reaches your lungs rather than staying in your mouth or throat.
• Rinse Mouth: After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. This helps to prevent oral thrush, a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids.
• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the number of puffs to take and how often to use the inhaler. Typically, it is used twice daily.
• Regular Use: It’s important to use Aerospan HFA regularly, even if you feel fine, to keep asthma symptoms under control.
• Cleaning: Clean the mouthpiece regularly to ensure the inhaler functions correctly.

If you have any doubts about how to use the inhaler or if you miss a dose, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Although not typically the first line of treatment, some doctors may prescribe inhaled corticosteroids like Aerospan HFA as part of a broader treatment plan for managing COPD symptoms.
• Allergic Rhinitis: In some cases, inhaled corticosteroids can help manage severe allergic rhinitis by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages, though other forms of administration are usually preferred.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Aerospan HFA:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, particularly to flunisolide or any other corticosteroids, or if you have had an allergic reaction to any medications.
• Medical History: Discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have a history of infections (like tuberculosis), glaucoma, cataracts, osteoporosis, or any conditions that might weaken your immune system.
• Infections: Corticosteroids can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have infections such as chickenpox or measles.
• Oral Health: Use the inhaler properly and rinse your mouth after each use to prevent oral thrush (a yeast infection in the mouth). Inform your doctor if you develop white patches in your mouth or other signs of infection.
• Vision Problems: Corticosteroids can sometimes cause or worsen glaucoma or cataracts. Have regular eye exams, and inform your doctor if you notice any vision changes.
• Bone Health: Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids may increase the risk of osteoporosis. Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and discuss with your doctor about monitoring your bone density if using Aerospan HFA long-term.
• Growth in Children: Inhaled corticosteroids can slow growth in children and adolescents. If prescribed for a child, the doctor will monitor their growth regularly.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The medication should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and should be discussed with your doctor.
• Weaning Off: Do not suddenly stop using Aerospan HFA without consulting your doctor, especially if you’ve been using it for a long time. Your body may need time to adjust to the reduction in corticosteroids.
• Avoid Overuse: Use Aerospan HFA only as prescribed. Overuse can lead to serious side effects and complications, including adrenal insufficiency.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any unusual side effects or symptoms while using Aerospan HFA.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Calcium and Vitamin D: Ensure your diet includes enough calcium and vitamin D to support bone health, especially if you are on long-term inhaled corticosteroid therapy. Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fortified foods, and supplements if necessary.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a well-balanced diet to support overall health. There are no specific dietary restrictions for Aerospan HFA, but a healthy diet can help mitigate potential side effects related to corticosteroid use.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as You Remember: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
• Do Not Double Dose: Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose. This could increase the risk of side effects.
• Resume Regular Schedule: Continue with your regular dosing schedule after a missed dose. If you frequently forget doses, consider setting reminders or alarms to help maintain a consistent routine.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aerospan HFA (flunisolide) can cause a range of side effects, some of which may be more common or mild, while others can be more serious. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to consult your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Common Side Effects: These are typically mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medication:

• Hoarseness or Voice Changes: You may notice a change in your voice, often described as hoarseness.
• Sore Throat: A mild sore throat can occur after using the inhaler.
• Cough: Some users experience coughing after inhaling the medication.
• Headache: Mild headaches can be a side effect.
• Nasal Congestion or Runny Nose: Some people report symptoms similar to a cold.
• Oral Thrush (Candidiasis): This is a yeast infection in the mouth that appears as white patches. It can be prevented by rinsing your mouth after each use.

Less Common Side Effects: These side effects are less common but should be monitored:

• Nausea: Some users might feel nauseous.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy may occur.
• Upset Stomach: Some people experience gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Dry Mouth: You may notice dryness in your mouth after using the inhaler.

Serious Side Effects: These are rare but can be serious. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing require immediate medical attention.
• Vision Changes: Blurred vision or other changes in eyesight may indicate the development of cataracts or glaucoma.
• Signs of Infection: Persistent sore throat, fever, chills, or other signs of infection should be reported to your doctor, as corticosteroids can suppress the immune system.
• Wheezing or Breathing Problems: Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of wheezing or difficulty breathing) can occur right after using the inhaler. If this happens, stop using the inhaler and seek medical help immediately.
• Adrenal Insufficiency: Symptoms include extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain, especially if you’ve been using the inhaler long-term and stop suddenly.
• Bone Loss (Osteoporosis): Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids can contribute to bone density loss, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Growth Suppression in Children: Regular monitoring is required to ensure that the medication does not adversely affect growth.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Long-term use can affect the body’s hormone levels, leading to symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, or changes in physical appearance.
• Bone Density Loss: Long-term use may increase the risk of osteoporosis.

If you experience mild side effects, they may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious or severe side effects.

Always discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they can help determine whether the benefits of continuing the medication outweigh the risks, and they can provide guidance on managing or mitigating side effects.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Aerospan HFA:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Aerospan HFA at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.
• Away from Moisture and Light: Keep the inhaler in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture (e.g., not in the bathroom).
• Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze the inhaler. If it becomes frozen, it may not function correctly.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store the inhaler in a safe place where children or pets cannot access it.

Disposal:

• Empty Canister: Once the dose counter indicates that the inhaler is empty or when the expiration date has passed, dispose of it properly.
• Do Not Puncture or Burn: The canister is pressurized, so do not puncture, burn, or incinerate it, even if it is empty, as it could explode.
• Follow Local Guidelines: Dispose of the inhaler according to local regulations for medication disposal. If you are unsure how to do this, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms might include severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, severe headache, tremors, or dizziness.
• Call Emergency Services: If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or call your local emergency number.
• Poison Control Center: You can also contact your local poison control center for advice.
• Monitor and Support: While waiting for help, try to keep the person calm and in a comfortable position. Ensure they’re breathing properly and do not administer anything orally unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

What other information should I know?

• Usage Instructions: Always use the inhaler exactly as prescribed. Do not use more often or in higher doses than recommended. Rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent oral thrush (a fungal infection) and other side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double up doses.
• Potential Side Effects: Common side effects include hoarseness, dry mouth, cough, sore throat, and dizziness. Severe side effects may involve signs of allergic reactions (like rash, itching, swelling), vision problems, or persistent sore throat.
• Medical History and Interactions: Inform your doctor of your medical history, especially if you have any infections, recent surgeries, or have used steroids recently. Also, let them know about all medications you’re taking to avoid interactions.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor your condition and adjust your dosage as needed.

Taking these precautions and following these guidelines can help ensure that you use Aerospan HFA safely and effectively.