Combitide 250 Mcg Inhaler

COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER

COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER, manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., is a combination medication used for the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER
  • Common Name: Salmeterol & Fluticasone Propionate Inhaler

• Composition:

  • Each inhalation contains:
    • Fluticasone Propionate: 250 mcg
    • Salmeterol: 25 mcg

• Uses: COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER is prescribed for the maintenance treatment of:

  • Asthma: To prevent and control symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. It is not for sudden asthma attacks.
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): To relieve symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties by improving airflow to the lungs.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER should be used exactly as advised by your doctor, typically at the same time each day for ease of remembering.
  • Shake the inhaler well before each use.
  • Exhale completely, place the mouthpiece in your mouth, and inhale deeply and steadily while pressing down on the canister to release the medication. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds.
  • Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water (without swallowing) after each use to help prevent fungal infections in the mouth and throat.
  • This medicine is for long-term maintenance therapy and should not be used to relieve sudden breathing problems or acute asthma attacks. A rescue inhaler should be used for such emergencies. Do not stop taking it even if your symptoms improve, as this may cause symptoms to reoccur.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Sore throat, cough, headache, hoarse voice/voice changes, upper respiratory tract infection, fungal infection of the mouth (oral thrush), musculoskeletal pain, increased heart rate, and nasal inflammation (nasopharyngitis/sinusitis).
  • Serious Side Effects (less common): Shortness of breath, swelling of face/lips/mouth/tongue, irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps, joint pain, skin rash, sweating, sleep disturbances, hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels), and paradoxical bronchospasm.

• Precautions:

  • Do not use if you are allergic to fluticasone propionate, salmeterol, or any other components of the inhaler.
  • Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, including cardiovascular disorders (heart problems, high blood pressure), diabetes, thyroid disorders (thyrotoxicosis), liver or kidney problems, osteoporosis, seizures, and any active infections (fungal, bacterial, or viral).
  • Use with caution in patients with ocular herpes infection.
  • Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
  • Not recommended for use in children below 12 years of age.
  • Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as interactions are unknown.
  • Regular monitoring of blood potassium levels may be necessary.

• Storage:

  • Store at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C or below 30°C.
  • Protect from direct sunlight and heat.
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children and pets.
  • The canister should not be punctured, broken, or burnt, even if it appears empty.
  • Ensure to use the inhaler before its expiry date.

COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD.

What is COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER used for?

COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER is used for the long-term management and prevention of symptoms associated with chronic respiratory conditions, specifically asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. This inhaler is not intended for immediate relief of sudden breathing problems or acute asthma attacks; a separate rescue inhaler should be used for such emergencies.

How does COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER work?

COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER contains two active ingredients: Salmeterol and Fluticasone Propionate. Salmeterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, which helps to widen them and make breathing easier. Fluticasone Propionate is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation (swelling) in the airways by stopping the release of certain chemical messengers that cause it. Together, these two components improve airflow and help control respiratory symptoms.

What is the usual dosage for COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER?

The specific dosage and duration for COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER should be determined by your doctor, as it varies based on age, body weight, and the severity of your condition. It is typically taken at the same time each day for consistent management of your condition. Do not stop using the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if your symptoms improve, as early discontinuation can lead to a recurrence of symptoms.

What are the possible side effects of COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER?

Common side effects can include cough, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, throat irritation, hoarseness or voice changes, fungal infection of the mouth (oral thrush), stomach discomfort, muscle cramps, joint pain, and an increased heart rate. Rinsing your mouth and throat with water or brushing your teeth after each use can help prevent fungal infections. If side effects persist or become severe, it is important to speak with your doctor.

Is COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when using COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby, and limited human studies exist. It is crucial to consult your doctor to weigh the benefits against any potential risks before using this medicine if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Similarly, if you are breastfeeding, discuss with your doctor, as information regarding its safety during breastfeeding is not readily available.

Can COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all ongoing medications, including herbal supplements, before starting COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER, as it can interact with certain drugs. Interactions may occur with other beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, propranolol), medicines for fungal infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole), antiviral medicines (e.g., ritonavir, cobicistat-containing products), and certain antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin). Concomitant use with other steroid tablets or injections should also be managed judiciously to avoid increased side effects. Caution is also advised if you have cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.

What precautions should be taken when using COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER?

Always use the inhaler correctly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out after each use to help prevent fungal infections in the mouth and throat. Do not use this inhaler for sudden breathing problems; use your quick-relief inhaler instead. Inform your doctor about any worsening of symptoms or side effects. Also, disclose any existing health issues such as liver, kidney, or heart problems, diabetes, thyroid disorders, seizure disorders, osteoporosis, or active infections.

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

If you miss a dose of COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER be stored?

COMBITIDE 250 MCG INHALER should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 20°C to 25°C, away from heat and direct light. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. The canister should not be punctured, broken, or burnt, even if it appears empty. Ensure to use the inhaler before its expiry date.