Why is this medication prescribed?

Incruse Ellipta is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient umeclidinium bromide. It belongs to a class of drugs known as long-acting anticholinergic bronchodilators. It is primarily prescribed for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

COPD is a progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and difficulty breathing. It is primarily caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, and certain occupational hazards. Symptoms of COPD include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

Incruse Ellipta works by relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs, which helps to open up the air passages and improve breathing. It is intended to be used on a regular basis to prevent symptoms and reduce the frequency of exacerbations (flare-ups) in patients with COPD.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for using Incruse Ellipta:

• Prepare the inhaler: Hold the inhaler in a level position and slide the cover down until you hear a click. This will load a dose of the medication into the inhaler.
• Breathe out: Exhale fully, away from the inhaler, to ensure your lungs are empty before inhaling.
• Inhale the dose: Put the mouthpiece between your lips and close your lips around it. Do not bite or chew the mouthpiece. Breathe in deeply and forcefully through your mouth. This will release the medication. You may not taste or feel the medication, but it is being delivered to your lungs.
• Hold your breath: Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for about 5-10 seconds, or as long as comfortable, to allow the medication to reach deep into your lungs.
• Exhale slowly: Breathe out slowly and gently away from the inhaler.
• Close the inhaler: Slide the cover up to close the inhaler. The inhaler is designed to keep track of the number of doses remaining.

It is usually recommended to use Incruse Ellipta once daily, at the same time each day, to maintain its effectiveness. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.

Remember to rinse your mouth with water after using Incruse Ellipta to help reduce the risk of throat irritation or oral fungal infections.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Incruse Ellipta, it is important to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance. They can provide personalized instructions based on your specific needs.

Other uses for this medicine

Incruse Ellipta is primarily indicated for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is not typically prescribed for other conditions, as its main focus is on managing the symptoms and improving lung function in patients with COPD.

What special precautions should I follow?

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

• Allergy: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a known allergy to umeclidinium bromide or any other components of Incruse Ellipta. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Medical history: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have or have had eye problems (such as narrow-angle glaucoma or increased intraocular pressure), urinary retention, bladder or prostate problems, or any other significant medical conditions.
• Concomitant medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Certain medications may interact with Incruse Ellipta, potentially affecting its efficacy or causing adverse effects. This includes other anticholinergic drugs, as well as medications that can increase the risk of narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Incruse Ellipta during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Side effects: Like any medication, Incruse Ellipta can cause side effects. Common side effects may include cough, headache, throat pain, and sinusitis. It is important to report any unusual or bothersome side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Ongoing monitoring: Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your progress, adjust the treatment plan if needed, and evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Incruse Ellipta.

It is crucial to follow the instructions and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider when using Incruse Ellipta. They are best suited to provide personalized advice based on your specific medical history and condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

In general, it is advisable to follow a balanced diet that includes iron-rich foods to support the efficacy of Incruse Ellipta. However, individual dietary instructions may vary depending on your specific medical condition and the guidance of your healthcare provider. It’s best to consult with them to determine the most appropriate dietary guidelines for your situation.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

What side effects can this medication cause?

While Incruse Ellipta is generally well-tolerated, like any medication, it can have potential side effects. Common side effects of Incruse Ellipta may include:

• Headache
• Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat)
• Cough
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)
• Dry mouth
• Inflammation of the throat
• Muscle pain
• Joint pain

These side effects are usually mild and transient, and they tend to improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

It’s important to note that anticholinergic medications like Incruse Ellipta may have systemic effects, meaning they can affect other parts of the body. While less common, some potential systemic side effects of Incruse Ellipta may include:

• Urinary retention (difficulty urinating)
• Increased intraocular pressure (pressure in the eye)
• Worsening of narrow-angle glaucoma (a type of eye condition)
• Allergic reactions (rare but possible)

If you experience any severe side effects or allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a rash, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Please note that this information is not exhaustive, and it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a comprehensive understanding of the potential side effects of any medication, including Incruse Ellipta. They can provide personalized information based on your specific health situation.

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

1. Storage: Store Incruse Ellipta at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Avoid exposing the inhaler to extreme temperatures. It’s important to keep it in its original blister pack until you are ready to use it. Do not remove the inhaler from the blister pack until you are ready to take a dose.
2. Disposal: When you have finished using all the doses in the Incruse Ellipta inhaler, you can dispose of it safely in the regular household trash. It’s recommended to throw away the inhaler even if it still contains some powder. Do not try to refill the inhaler or reuse it.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or accidental overdose, immediately contact emergency services or your local poison control center at once. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe dizziness, blurred vision, dry mouth, difficulty breathing, or an increased heart rate. It’s important to seek medical help immediately if an overdose is suspected.

What other information should I know?

Like any medication, Incruse Ellipta can cause side effects. Common side effects may include a sore throat, runny nose, headache, cough, or muscle pain. However, if you experience severe side effects like an allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or eye problems, contact your doctor immediately.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized instructions and guidance on the safe use, storage, and disposal of Incruse Ellipta. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information based on your specific medical situation.