Formoflo 250 Mcg Transcap (30 Cap)

FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP (30 CAP) by LUPIN LTD.

• Name: Formoflo 250 Transcaps is the brand name for this medication.

• Composition: Each Transcap contains a combination of two active ingredients: Fluticasone Propionate (250 mcg) and Formoterol Fumarate (6 mcg). Fluticasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, while Formoterol is a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) that relaxes airway muscles to improve airflow.

• Uses: Formoflo 250 Transcaps is primarily used for the long-term management and prevention of symptoms associated with asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This includes conditions like chronic bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial tubes) and emphysema (shortness of breath). It helps to relieve symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

• Dosage and Administration: This medicine is for oral inhalation only and should not be swallowed. Typically, one capsule is inhaled twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, using a compatible inhaler device, such as the Lupin Revolizer. It is crucial to use it consistently as prescribed for maintenance therapy, even if symptoms improve. It is not intended for immediate relief of sudden, severe asthma attacks; a separate rescue inhaler should be used for such situations. After each inhalation, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent fungal infections like oral thrush.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, sore throat, cough, hoarse voice, nausea, vomiting, respiratory tract infection, and oral thrush. More serious, though less common, side effects can include increased heart rate, tremors, and a decrease in blood potassium levels. If side effects are persistent or severe, medical attention should be sought.

• Precautions: Inform your doctor about any pre-existing conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, eye conditions (like glaucoma or cataracts), or infections (including tuberculosis). Caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and the medication is generally not recommended for children under 5 or 12 years of age, depending on the source. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

• Storage: Store Formoflo 250 Transcaps in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at temperatures between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep it out of sight and reach of children.

FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP: Frequently Asked Questions

What is FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP used for?

FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP is primarily used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It helps to prevent breathing difficulties, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing associated with these respiratory conditions. It is not meant for relieving sudden asthma attacks.

How does FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP work?

FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP is a combination medicine containing Fluticasone Propionate (a corticosteroid) and Formoterol Fumarate (a long-acting beta2-adrenergic receptor agonist). Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the airways. Formoterol relaxes and widens the muscles around the air passages, improving airflow to the lungs and making breathing easier.

What is the usual dosage for FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP?

The usual dosage involves inhaling the contents of one capsule twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart, using only the Lupin Revolizer inhaler device. It's crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dose and duration, as it may vary based on your condition's severity and response to the medication. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP?

Common side effects may include sore throat, cough, headache, hoarse voice, dry mouth, irregular heartbeat, rash, muscle spasms, unusual tiredness or weakness, and swelling of ankles or feet. Other reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, respiratory tract infections, fungal infection in the mouth (oral candidiasis/thrush), and dizziness. If any side effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor.

Is FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless considered clearly necessary and advised by a doctor. Caution is advised, and you should consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP be taken with other medications?

It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking or might take to avoid possible interactions. Specific interactions can occur with:

• Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, nelfinavir, clarithromycin): These can increase your exposure to fluticasone propionate, potentially leading to increased systemic side effects.
• Adrenergic Agents (e.g., adrenaline): May intensify formoterol's effects.
• Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, propranolol): May weaken the effect of formoterol.
• Diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, furosemide): May interact with Formoflo.
• Medicines for heart problems (e.g., digoxin, quinidine, disopyramide, procainamide).

What precautions should be taken?

Several precautions should be taken:

• Not for sudden attacks: This medicine is for maintenance treatment and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks; always use a rescue inhaler for such symptoms.
• Rinse mouth: After each inhalation, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the risk of oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth/throat).
• Medical conditions: Use with caution if you have heart disease, liver problems, diabetes, active infections (e.g., tuberculosis, fungal, viral), glaucoma, cataracts, seizures, or low potassium levels. Your doctor should be informed of any existing medical conditions.
• Children: It is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP, 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. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP be stored?

FORMOFLO 250 MCG TRANSCAP should be stored in a cool, dry place, typically below 30°C. Protect the medicine from light and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children.