Why is this medication prescribed?

Breo Ellipta is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma in adults. It’s a combination inhaler that contains two active ingredients: fluticasone furoate, a corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation in the airways, and vilanterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) that helps relax the muscles around the airways, making breathing easier.

The combination of these two medications in Breo Ellipta helps to improve lung function and reduce symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness associated with COPD and asthma. It’s typically prescribed for long-term maintenance treatment to help manage these chronic respiratory conditions.

How should this medicine be used?

Breo Ellipta is an inhalation powder that comes in a device called the Ellipta inhaler. Here’s a general guide on how to use it:

• Prepare the inhaler: Hold the inhaler with the mouthpiece facing you and the base in your palm. Slide the cover down until you hear a click.
• Breathe out: Breathe out fully, away from the inhaler, to ensure your lungs are as empty as possible before inhaling.
• Inhale the medication: Place the mouthpiece between your lips and close your lips tightly around it. Do not cover the air vents with your fingers. Inhale deeply and steadily through your mouth, not through your nose.
• Hold your breath: After inhaling the medication, remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for about 5-10 seconds, or as long as comfortable.
• Exhale slowly: Breathe out slowly and gently away from the inhaler.
• Close the inhaler: Slide the cover up to close the inhaler.
• Rinse your mouth: It’s important to rinse your mouth with water after using Breo Ellipta to help reduce the risk of developing oral thrush.
• Clean the inhaler: Wipe the mouthpiece with a dry tissue or cloth. Do not wash or put the inhaler in water.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the medication guide provided with Breo Ellipta. Typically, it’s used once a day, at the same time each day, for the best results. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Breo Ellipta properly, be sure to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

As for other uses, Breo Ellipta is primarily indicated for COPD and asthma. It’s not typically prescribed for other conditions unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions, here are some important points to consider when using Breo Ellipta:

• Medical history: Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially if you have a history of certain conditions such as heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, or seizures.
• Allergies: Let your doctor know if you have any allergies, particularly to fluticasone, vilanterol, or any other medications.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Breo Ellipta with your healthcare provider. It’s essential to weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the benefits of treating your respiratory condition.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, as certain medications may interact with Breo Ellipta, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Side effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Breo Ellipta, such as increased risk of pneumonia, thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth or throat), osteoporosis, cataracts, glaucoma, and adrenal insufficiency. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms while using this medication.
• Usage: Follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or frequency of use without consulting your doctor.
• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your lung function and overall health while you are using Breo Ellipta to ensure it is working effectively and to detect any potential side effects or complications early.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations regarding the use of Breo Ellipta and any other medications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Breo Ellipta. However, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is beneficial for managing respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Breo Ellipta, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. Consistency in medication use is important for managing chronic conditions effectively, so try to take Breo Ellipta at the same time each day as prescribed.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Breo Ellipta, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences these side effects, and their severity can vary. Some common side effects of Breo Ellipta may include:

• Upper respiratory tract infection: Symptoms may include sore throat, sinus infection, or common cold-like symptoms.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are common side effects of Breo Ellipta.
• Oral candidiasis (thrush): A fungal infection in the mouth or throat characterized by white patches or redness. Rinsing your mouth with water after using Breo Ellipta can help reduce the risk of thrush.
• Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to coughing, chest discomfort, and mucus production.
• Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses, which may cause facial pain, nasal congestion, and headache.
• Back pain: Discomfort or pain in the back area.
• Joint pain: Aches or discomfort in the joints.
• Muscle pain: Pain or discomfort in the muscles.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach, which may be accompanied by a loss of appetite.
• Viral respiratory infections: Infections caused by viruses, such as the flu or the common cold.
• Throat pain: Soreness or irritation in the throat.
• Cough: Breo Ellipta may cause or worsen coughing in some individuals.

It’s important to note that these are not all the possible side effects of Breo Ellipta. Some individuals may experience more severe or less common side effects. If you experience any concerning symptoms while using Breo Ellipta, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about the side effects of Breo Ellipta, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

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

Storage and disposal instructions for Breo Ellipta:

• Storage: Store Breo Ellipta at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) in a dry place away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the inhaler in its sealed pouch until ready for use.
• Disposal: Dispose of used Breo Ellipta inhalers properly by following the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not puncture or burn the inhaler, even if it’s empty. Instead, dispose of it in a household trash bin.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, chest pain, tremors, seizures, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical help or contact your local poison control center.
• Symptom management: Follow any specific instructions provided by healthcare professionals. Treatment for an overdose may involve supportive care to manage symptoms and stabilize vital signs.

What other information should I know?

• Regular use: Use Breo Ellipta exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your doctor.
• Consistency: Try to use Breo Ellipta at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels in your body and maximize its effectiveness.
• Follow-up: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to treatment and address any concerns or changes in your condition.
• Refills: Ensure that you have an adequate supply of Breo Ellipta on hand. Refill your prescription before you run out to avoid interruptions in treatment.
• Educate yourself: Learn how to use the Breo Ellipta inhaler properly by reading the medication guide provided with the product. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or need further clarification.
• Keep track of symptoms: Monitor your symptoms regularly and report any changes or worsening of your condition to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Allergy alert: If you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing) after using Breo Ellipta, seek immediate medical attention.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations regarding the use of Breo Ellipta and any other medications. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.