BREO ELLIPTA (Fluticasone/Vilanterol)

What is this medication?

BREO ELLIPTA (Fluticasone/Vilanterol)
Inhaled corticosteroid; Long acting Beta2 Adrenergic Agonist

BREO ELLIPTA (Fluticasone/Vilanterol) is indicated for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

How does this medication work?

BREO ELLIPTA (Fluticasone/Vilanterol) is a combination of fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA).

The precise mechanism through which Fluticasone furoate affects COPD and asthma symptoms is not known. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of COPD and asthma. Fluticasone furoate binds to the glucocorticoid receptor which activates the glucocorticoid response element causing  inhibition of pro-inflammatory transcription factors.  The result is a reduction in the formation, release, and activity of inflammatory mediators such as kinins, histamine and prostaglandins.  Reduces cell migration to the affected area and reverses the dilation and blood vessel permeability result in decreased access of cells to the site.  Vilanterol is a LABA that relaxes the smooth muscle in the bronchioles via the beta2 adrenergic receptor.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting BREO ELLIPTA (Fluticasone/Vilanterol), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies (lactose; not intolerance), medications you currently take, if you have cardiovascular disease, diabetes, liver disease, have hypokalemia, eye disease, osteoporosis, a seizure disorder, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should I take this medication?

Inhalation: Take 1 inhalation once daily (100mcg fluticasone furoate; 25mcg vilanterol).  Vilanterol component determines maximum dosage, if corticosteroid is to be increased it should be through a separate single entity inhaler.

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, take consistently at same times each day, store at room temperature.  Follow priming instructions for the product received and make sure the pharmacist teaches you proper use/care of the device.   Rinse mouth with water and spit out after every use of medication to reduce risk of oral thrush.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep this and all medication out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Keep in a dry place away from heat and sunlight. Store in the unopened foil tray and only open when ready for use.

Safely throw away in the trash 6 weeks after you open the foil tray or when the counter reads “0,” whichever comes first. Write the date you open the tray on the label on the inhaler.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Headache, oropharyngeal candidiasis, nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for BREO ELLIPTA (Fluticasone/Vilanterol), only common ones.