Duova Inhaler

DUOVA Inhaler

DUOVA Inhaler, manufactured by Cipla Ltd., is a combination medication used for the long-term management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

• Name:

  • Brand Name: DUOVA Inhaler
  • Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd.

• Composition: DUOVA Inhaler contains two active ingredients:

  • Tiotropium Bromide: 9 mcg (an anticholinergic agent)
  • Formoterol Fumarate: 6 mcg (a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist - LABA) These bronchodilators work synergistically to relax the muscles in the airways, widening them and making breathing easier.

• Uses: DUOVA Inhaler is prescribed for the long-term treatment and management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including:

  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema
  • Relief of persistent breathing difficulties
  • Prevention of COPD exacerbations It helps to alleviate symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. It is important to note that DUOVA Inhaler is not intended for immediate relief during acute breathing difficulties or as a rescue inhaler.

• Dosage and Administration: DUOVA Inhaler should be used regularly as directed by a healthcare professional, typically once daily or two puffs once daily. General Instructions for Use:

  • Shake the inhaler well before each use.
  • Exhale fully away from the inhaler.
  • Place the mouthpiece between your lips and seal your lips around it.
  • While breathing in deeply and slowly, press down on the canister to release the medicine.
  • Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
  • Rinse your mouth with water (without swallowing) after use to help prevent common side effects like dry mouth and sore throat.
  • Replace the cap after use. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Dry mouth, sore throat, cough, hoarseness, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), nausea, dizziness, insomnia, diarrhea, and vomiting. Most of these are mild and temporary.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek medical attention if experienced): Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, feeling faint, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, wheezing or trouble breathing shortly after using the inhaler, blurred vision or eye pain (potentially indicating narrow-angle glaucoma), and pain or difficulty urinating (which may suggest prostate or bladder issues).

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor if you have allergies to Tiotropium, Formoterol, or any other ingredients.
  • Use with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals; consult a doctor.
  • Caution is advised for patients with existing heart conditions (e.g., heart disease, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat), glaucoma (especially narrow-angle glaucoma), urinary problems (like prostate enlargement or bladder outflow obstruction), thyroid disorders, diabetes, and hypokalemia (low potassium levels).
  • Avoid alcohol consumption while using this medicine.
  • DUOVA Inhaler may interact with other medications, including beta-blockers, other anticholinergic medicines (e.g., ipratropium), and diuretics, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
  • Not recommended for use in children below 18 years of age.
  • Avoid driving or operating machinery if dizziness occurs.

• Storage: Store DUOVA Inhaler below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from frost and direct sunlight. Always replace the mouthpiece cover when not in use and keep it out of the sight and reach of children.

DUOVA INHALER is a prescription medicine used to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It helps relieve symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing. It is also sometimes used to treat asthma. DUOVA INHALER is not meant for immediate relief during sudden breathing difficulties or acute bronchospasm.

What is DUOVA INHALER used for?

DUOVA INHALER is primarily used for the long-term management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung condition that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It helps to alleviate persistent breathing difficulties, relieve chest tightness, reduce wheezing, and control coughing. It may also be used to treat asthma and to prevent exercise-induced breathing problems.

How does DUOVA INHALER work?

DUOVA INHALER contains two active ingredients: Formoterol and Tiotropium. Formoterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airway walls, thereby widening the airways and making breathing easier. Tiotropium is a long-acting anticholinergic that blocks the action of acetylcholine, a natural substance that causes airway muscles to tighten. By preventing this tightening, Tiotropium helps to keep the airways open for extended periods, improving airflow. The combined action of these two bronchodilators provides enhanced relief from bronchospasm.

What is the usual dosage?

The usual recommended dosage for adults is typically two puffs once daily, or as advised by your doctor. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions for the specific dosage and frequency for your condition. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects of DUOVA INHALER include dry mouth, sore throat, cough, hoarseness, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages). Some patients may also experience headache, diarrhea, vomiting, or tremors. Serious but less common side effects can include rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia), chest pain, blurred vision or eye pain (which could indicate glaucoma), and difficulty urinating. Paradoxical bronchospasm, where the inhaler worsens breathing, can also occur. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should consult your doctor immediately. Rinsing your mouth with water after use can help prevent some side effects like dry mouth and oral thrush.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Caution is advised when using DUOVA INHALER during pregnancy. While limited human studies exist, animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing it. For breastfeeding, DUOVA INHALER is probably safe to use, as limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby. However, it's still advisable to consult your doctor, and the infant should be monitored for any undesired side effects.

Can it be taken with other medications?

Several medications can interact with DUOVA INHALER. It's important to inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Interactions can occur with other anticholinergics (like atropine), other beta-agonists (like pseudoephedrine in cold medications), diuretics (like furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide), beta-blockers (like atenolol), adrenergic agents, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants.

What precautions should be taken?

Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially glaucoma, urinary problems (e.g., prostate enlargement), heart conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat), thyroid disorders, diabetes, kidney or liver problems, epilepsy, or a history of allergic reactions to any components of the inhaler. DUOVA INHALER is not recommended for children under 5 or 18 years of age, depending on the source. Avoid consuming alcohol while using this medicine. Be cautious when driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness or blurred vision. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is important for diabetic patients as this inhaler can cause a rise in blood glucose.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should it be stored?

DUOVA INHALER should be stored below 25°C in a cool, dark, and dry place. Protect it from frost and direct sunlight. Always replace the mouthpiece cover when not in use to prevent dust and ensure proper functioning. Keep the inhaler out of the sight and reach of children.