Digihaler Sf 250 Mcg Inhaler

DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER

Name

• Brand Name: Digihaler SF 250 Inhaler
• Manufacturer: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Composition

Digihaler SF 250 Inhaler contains two active ingredients:

• Salmeterol (25 mcg)
• Fluticasone Propionate (250 mcg)

Uses

Digihaler SF 250 Inhaler is a combination medication primarily used for the long-term management and prevention of symptoms associated with chronic respiratory conditions. It is prescribed for:

• Asthma: To control symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, and to prevent asthma attacks, including those triggered by exercise or allergens. It helps improve lung function and control symptoms in asthma patients.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This includes conditions like bronchitis (inflammation of the lining of bronchial tubes) and emphysema (shortness of breath). It helps in the regular maintenance treatment of COPD, reducing exacerbations, improving lung function, and making breathing easier by keeping the airways open.

Salmeterol acts as a long-acting bronchodilator by relaxing the muscles in the airways, widening them to facilitate easier breathing. Fluticasone Propionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways by stopping the release of certain chemical messengers that cause inflammatory reactions.

Dosage and Administration

Digihaler SF 250 Inhaler should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor. It is typically inhaled orally, usually twice daily.

• General Guidance: Take the inhaler at a fixed time with or without food, as instructed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency may vary based on the severity of the condition and individual response.
• Administration: Shake the inhaler well before use. Exhale fully, then place the mouthpiece between your lips. As you breathe in from the mouth, press down on the inhaler once to release the medication, and hold your breath for approximately 10 seconds or as long as comfortable. Repeat this for the prescribed number of puffs. After each use, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out to prevent fungal infections.
• Important Note: This inhaler is for maintenance treatment and should be used regularly even when feeling well to prevent symptoms. It is not a rescue inhaler for sudden asthma attacks; a separate fast-acting bronchodilator should be used for acute symptoms.

Side Effects

While not everyone experiences them, some common and serious side effects can occur:

• Common Side Effects: Headache, stomach upset, dizziness, nervousness, vomiting, fungal infection of the mouth (thrush), hoarseness of voice, sore throat, cough, increased heart rate, upper respiratory tract infection, musculoskeletal pain, and voice changes. Rinsing the mouth after each use can help prevent thrush.
• Serious Side Effects: Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching/swelling of face/tongue/throat, breathing difficulties) are rare but require immediate medical attention. Other concerns include blurred vision, worsening asthma symptoms, and low potassium levels.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if allergic to Salmeterol, Fluticasone Propionate, or other ingredients.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, chest or lung infection, hyperthyroidism, hypokalaemia (low potassium levels), glaucoma, cataracts, osteoporosis, tuberculosis, heart, liver or adrenal gland problems, seizure disorders, or cardiovascular disorders.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as its safety in these conditions is not fully established.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 12 years of age.
• Interactions: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) can increase side effects. Concurrent use of other long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonists should be avoided. Non-potassium-sparing diuretics may alter ECG readings and worsen low potassium levels.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood potassium levels is recommended.

Storage

Store Digihaler SF 250 Inhaler at room temperature (20-25°C), away from heat and direct light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Protect from moisture.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER by GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

What is DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER used for?

DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER is primarily used for the long-term management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. It helps relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and breathing difficulties. This medicine is for regular maintenance treatment and should not be used for sudden asthma attacks.

How does DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER work?

DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER is a combination of two active ingredients: Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol. Fluticasone Propionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways by inhibiting the release of certain substances in the body. Salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in the airways, widening them and making breathing easier. Together, they improve airflow and help prevent the onset of asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations.

What is the usual dosage for DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER?

The dosage of DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER should be used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. It is typically inhaled orally, usually twice daily, and often involves one puff per dose. For ease of remembering, it's recommended to use it around the same time each day. Do not stop using it, even if your symptoms improve, without consulting your doctor, as this may lead to symptoms recurring.

What are the possible side effects of DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER?

Common side effects may include sore throat, cough, headache, hoarse voice, and fungal infections in the mouth (oral thrush). Other possible side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, nasal congestion, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and an increased heart rate. To help prevent oral thrush, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each inhalation. If side effects become severe or persist, consult your doctor.

Is DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER should be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding only if considered necessary by a physician, after evaluating the potential benefits and risks. If used while breastfeeding, the infant should be closely monitored for any undesirable side effects. It is advisable to consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Can DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER be taken with other medications?

This medicine can interact with certain other medications. Inform your doctor about all ongoing medicines and herbal supplements before starting this treatment. Caution is advised with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir), other long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonists (LABAs), beta-blockers, and certain diuretics, as these can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of the inhaler.

What precautions should be taken when using DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER?

Inform your doctor if you have any existing health conditions such as heart problems, diabetes, thyroid disorders, high blood pressure, liver impairment, hypokalemia (low blood potassium), seizure disorders, or infections, as these conditions may require caution or dose adjustment. It is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Always use proper inhalation technique, and do not use it to relieve sudden asthma attacks.

What happens if a dose of DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER be stored?

DIGIHALER SF 250 MCG INHALER should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. It should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.