Indications
BREO ELLIPTA is a medication used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is used as an inhaler and consists of two medications, vilanterol, and fluticasone furoate. This combination helps to reduce inflammation in the airways and keep them open, allowing patients to breathe more easily.
BREO ELLIPTA belongs to long-acting beta2-agonist bronchodilator drugs. It is an inhaled medication that works by increasing the diameter of airways in the lungs, thus improving airflow, and reducing symptoms.
BREO ELLIPTA is a prescription medication for adults with asthma who require both an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) medicine. It helps to prevent exacerbations of the two respiratory diseases, while also reducing symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.
Uses and Dosage
BREO ELLIPTA should be taken orally as 1 inhalation once daily, ensure to use it at the same time every day. To use Breo Ellipta, open the inhaler cover and check the dose counter. Breathe out gently away from the inhaler and put the mouthpiece in your mouth, closing your lips around it. Finally, inhale the medication deeply and hold your breath for 10 seconds before exhaling. Repeat this process for each breath of medication. It is important to use the same number of breaths for each dose.
For the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), BREO ELLIPTA 100/25 should be administered as 1 inhalation once daily. The maximum recommended dosage is 1 inhalation of BREO ELLIPTA 100/25 once daily, the only strength indicated for this condition. Taking more than 1 inhalation daily or a higher dose is not recommended, and patients should not use other LABA medications.
For asthma, the recommended starting dosage is 1 inhalation of BREO ELLIPTA 100/25 or BREO ELLIPTA 200/25 once daily. If a patient does not respond adequately to BREO ELLIPTA 100/25, the dose may be increased to 1 inhalation of BREO ELLIPTA 200/25 once daily. This is the maximum recommended dosage for the treatment of asthma.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Breo Ellipta Include:
- Back pain
- Cough
- Headache
- Hoarseness
- Joint pain
- Mouth pain
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Throat irritation
- Thrush in the mouth or throat
Serious Side Effects of Breo Ellipta Includes
- Bleeding
- Bone pain
- Chest pain
- Easy bruising
- Fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Puffy face
- Signs of infection (fever, sore throat, chills)
- Slow wound healing
- Tremors
- Unusual weight gain
- Weakness
Form and Strength
Breo Ellipta is available in the following forms and strengths:
Breo Ellipta: Powder Inhaler
- 100/25 mcg
- 200/25 mcg
Caution
- If Breo Ellipta is used for an extended period of time, it may temporarily slow down a child's growth. Monitor your child's height regularly, as even poorly controlled asthma can cause growth to slow down. Your doctor can help you ensure that your child's growth is on track.
- Look out for an allergic reaction to fluticasone, vilanterol, and other inactive ingredients in Breo Ellipta. Symptoms of hypersensitivity include swelling, hives, skin rashes, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Seek emergency help if these occur.
- For pregnant and breastfeeding women, taking Breo Ellipta should be done only when the potential benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks. Speak with your doctor about any potential risks and benefits before taking Breo Ellipta.
- Look out for an allergic reaction to fluticasone, vilanterol, and other inactive ingredients in Breo Ellipta. Symptoms of hypersensitivity include swelling of the face and neck, hives, skin rashes, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Seek emergency help if these occur.
- Use caution when taking Breo Ellipta as it can cause an asthma attack or trouble breathing even when your asthma is under control. If you have trouble breathing, use your rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, immediately. If your asthma worsens while taking Breo Ellipta, talk to your healthcare provider as you may need to increase the dose or change to another medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long should you use Breo Ellipta?
Breo Ellipta works as a preventative medicine, so it will only be effective for as long as it is taken. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, continue using Breo Ellipta, as stopping it may cause your symptoms to return.
When is the best time to use Breo Ellipta?
Although only a mild improvement was shown, it probably is best to ask patients to take their controller medication at night if once-daily dosing is needed.
How long should you hold your breath when using an inhaler?
Hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds. This lets the medicine reach deep into your lungs. Breathe out slowly through your mouth. If you need a second puff, wait about 1 minute before you take your next puff.
Is Breo Ellipta a steroid?
Is BREO an anabolic steroid? No. BREO contains an ingredient called fluticasone furoate, which is a type of medicine called an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). ICS medicines such as fluticasone furoate help to decrease inflammation in the lungs.
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