Maxiflo 125 Mcg Inhaler

MAXIFLO 125 MCG INHALER

Name:

• Brand Name: MAXIFLO 125 MCG INHALER
• Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd.

Composition: Each actuation of MAXIFLO 125 Inhaler delivers:

• Fluticasone Propionate IP: 125 mcg
• Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate IP: 6 mcg These active ingredients are suspended in propellant HFA 134a. Fluticasone is a synthetic corticosteroid with potent anti-inflammatory activity, while formoterol is a selective long-acting beta2-agonist.

Uses: MAXIFLO 125 MCG INHALER is prescribed for the regular maintenance treatment of:

• Asthma (wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing)
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It helps to open up the airways, reduce inflammation in the lungs, and ease breathing over time. It is also used in the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Dosage and Administration:

• For adults and adolescents (12 years and older): Typically, 1-2 inhalations twice daily, as advised by a physician.
• The inhaler should be used at the same time each day for optimal benefit.
• It is for inhalation only and should not be swallowed.
• It is crucial to use the correct inhaler technique.
• Important: This medicine is for maintenance therapy and does not provide immediate relief for sudden breathing problems or acute asthma attacks. A fast and short-acting rescue inhaler should be used for such situations.
• Rinse your mouth and throat with water or brush your teeth after each use to help prevent fungal infections (oral candidiasis).

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort
• Respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), sinus inflammation
• Hoarseness of voice, sore throat/throat irritation, cough
• Musculoskeletal (bone, muscle or joint) pain, muscle cramps
• Increased heart rate, palpitations, tremors
• Oral candidiasis (fungal infection in the mouth or throat)
• Dizziness, dry mouth, rash, chest pain, unusual tiredness or weakness

Rarer, but serious side effects can also occur; consult your doctor if you are concerned.

Precautions:

• Do not use MAXIFLO 125 MCG INHALER during an acute asthma attack.
• Exercise caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders such as ischemic heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias, severe heart failure, severe hypertension, thyrotoxicosis, pheochromocytoma, or conditions predisposing to low serum potassium (hypokalemia), as the formoterol component may increase the risk of heart-related side effects and lower potassium levels. Regular monitoring of blood potassium levels is recommended.
• Diabetic patients should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly, as this inhaler may raise them.
• Use with caution in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis, untreated systemic infections, ocular herpes simplex, or other fungal, viral, or bacterial infections of the airway, as corticosteroids may mask or worsen these conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: MAXIFLO 125 MCG INHALER may be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor, as it should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all ongoing medicines, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There is an increased risk of systemic side effects when combining fluticasone with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir). Concomitant use with certain blood pressure-lowering medicines (e.g., propranolol, atenolol, diuretics) and tricyclic antidepressants should be done with caution.
• Not recommended for children below 5 years of age unless prescribed. For children between 4 and 11 years, a spacer device is usually recommended.

Storage:

• Store at room temperature, preferably below 30°C (between 2°C and 25°C).
• Protect from frost, direct sunlight, heat, and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
• Do not puncture the canister or dispose of it in fire, even when empty.

Here are frequently asked questions about MAXIFLO 125 MCG INHALER by CIPLA LTD.

What is MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler used for?

MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler is primarily used for the regular maintenance treatment and management of symptoms associated with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It helps relieve symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing. This inhaler is not intended for treating sudden, severe asthma attacks; a quick-relief inhaler should be used for acute symptoms.

How does MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler work?

MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler contains two active ingredients: Fluticasone Propionate (a corticosteroid) and Formoterol Fumarate (a long-acting beta-2-agonist or LABA). Fluticasone works by reducing inflammation and irritation in the airways, thereby decreasing swelling and mucus production. Formoterol acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles in the airways and widening the air passages, which makes breathing easier. Together, these components help improve lung airflow and control respiratory symptoms.

What is the usual dosage for MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler?

The dosage of MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler should be strictly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, adults and adolescents over 12 years of age may be prescribed one or two inhalations twice daily. The maximum daily dosage should not exceed the amount prescribed. For children between 4 and 11 years of age, the usual dosage is one inhalation twice daily, and this should be determined and monitored by a healthcare professional, often with a spacer device for effective delivery.

What are the possible side effects of MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler?

Common side effects can include headache, yellowish-white coatings or patches on the tongue, mouth or throat (thrush), sore throat, hoarseness of voice, respiratory infections, dry mouth, altered taste sensation, and shakiness of hands. Other reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, cough, muscle cramps, increased heart rate, joint pain, dizziness, and tremors. Rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water and spitting it out after each use can help prevent fungal infections like oral thrush. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as it is considered unsafe for the developing baby, unless clearly prescribed by a doctor who has weighed the benefits against the risks. Similarly, it is advised to avoid using this inhaler while breastfeeding unless specifically prescribed by your doctor, who will monitor the infant for any undesirable side effects.

Can MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler be taken with other medications?

Concomitant use of MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler with certain medications should be done with caution. This includes some blood pressure-lowering medicines (e.g., propranolol, atenolol, water pills), medicines for fungal and bacterial infections (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin), and antiviral medicines (e.g., ritonavir). If you are taking oral or injectable steroid tablets, using this inhaler judiciously is important to avoid additive side effects. Inform your doctor about all ongoing medicines and herbal supplements before starting this treatment. Beta-blockers may reduce the effectiveness of Formoterol, and diuretics can potentially cause low potassium levels.

What precautions should be taken while using MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler?

Always keep your MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler with you and ensure you have a new refill in advance. It is crucial to use the inhaler correctly; your doctor can demonstrate the proper technique. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to help prevent oral fungal infections. Inform your doctor if you have thyroid disease, diabetes, fungal/bacterial/viral infections, high blood pressure, heart diseases, low blood potassium levels, eye problems like glaucoma or cataracts, or immune system disorders. Do not use this inhaler for sudden, severe asthma symptoms.

What happens if a dose of MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler is missed?

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

How should MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler be stored?

MAXIFLO 125 MCG Inhaler should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from frost, direct sunlight, and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Do not puncture the canister or dispose of it in fire, even when empty. Ensure you do not use the inhaler after the expiry date printed on its packaging.