Digihaler Fb 400 Inhaler

DIGIHALER FB 400 INHALER

DIGIHALER FB 400 INHALER, manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a combination medication designed for the comprehensive management of chronic respiratory conditions.

• Name:
  • Brand Name: DIGIHALER FB 400 INHALER
• Composition:
  • Each metered dose contains:
    • Budesonide (400 mcg) - an inhaled corticosteroid
    • Formoterol Fumarate (6 mcg) - a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)
• Uses: DIGIHALER FB 400 INHALER is prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It helps to alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness by reducing airway inflammation and relaxing airway muscles, thus making breathing easier. It is not intended for the immediate relief of acute asthma attacks or COPD exacerbations.
• Dosage and Administration: This medicine is for inhalation only. The specific dosage and frequency are determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient's medical condition. It is crucial to use the inhaler regularly as prescribed for optimal benefit. After each use, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to help prevent oral fungal infections. Proper inhalation technique is essential for the medicine to be effective.
• Side Effects:
  • Common: Headache, fungal infection in the mouth (oral thrush), sore throat, hoarse voice, cough, upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, increased heart rate, tremors/trembling, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, dizziness, palpitations, and muscle cramps. Most common side effects typically resolve over time; however, if they persist or worsen, consult a doctor.
• Precautions: Inform your doctor about all existing health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypokalemia, glaucoma, cataracts, osteoporosis, seizures, liver or kidney problems, and immune system disorders. It is not recommended for children under 6 years of age (some sources suggest under 12), and caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding; consult your doctor. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without medical advice.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the inhaler out of the sight and reach of children. Store at room temperature, ideally between 20°C and 25°C.

What is DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler used for?

DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler is primarily used for the regular long-term management and treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults and children over 6 years. It helps to control symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. It is a maintenance medication and should not be used for sudden, acute breathing difficulties or asthma attacks, for which a separate rescue inhaler should be used.

How does DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler work?

This inhaler contains two active ingredients: Budesonide and Formoterol. Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways of the lungs. Formoterol is a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles around the airways and causing them to open up, making breathing easier. The combination provides a dual action to tackle inflammation and offer sustained bronchodilation.

What is the usual dosage for DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler?

The dosage of DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler is individualized and determined by your healthcare provider. It is typically prescribed for regular, long-term use to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. For asthma, a common dosage mentioned is 2 puffs, twice daily, as advised by a physician. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely and not to increase the dose or stop the treatment on your own.

What are the possible side effects of DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler?

Common side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, sore throat or throat irritation, hoarseness or voice changes, cough, oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth or throat), dizziness, tremors, palpitations, upper respiratory tract infections, and back pain. Rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water and spitting it out after each use can help prevent oral thrush. More serious, but less common, side effects can include low blood potassium levels and increased blood sugar levels.

Is DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, it is essential to consult your doctor before using DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler. There is limited information regarding its effects on human pregnancy, with some sources advising against it unless clearly necessary, while others suggest it may be safe if prescribed after a thorough assessment of benefits versus risks. Components of the inhaler may pass into breastmilk, so use during breastfeeding should only be considered if the benefits to the mother outweigh the potential risks to the child, as determined by a doctor.

Can DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler be taken with other medications?

Yes, but caution is advised as it can interact with certain medications. You should avoid concomitant use with some anti-fungal medicines (like Ketoconazole), HIV medications (like Ritonavir), and certain antibiotics (like Clarithromycin), as these may alter its effects. Some medicines for blood pressure or heart conditions (e.g., Propranolol, Atenolol) can weaken its effects. There may also be interactions with certain anaesthetic agents and medications that can lower potassium levels, such as certain diuretics (water-pills) or Digitalis for heart failure. Always inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler?

• Always rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out after each use to prevent oral fungal infections (thrush).
• Do not stop using the inhaler or change your dosage without consulting your doctor, even if your symptoms improve, as this can worsen your condition.
• This medicine is for maintenance treatment and should not be used as a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems. Have a separate short-acting inhaler for acute attacks.
• Inform your doctor if you have severe liver problems, diabetes, a lung infection, heart conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, heart failure), an overactive thyroid gland, low blood potassium levels, or if you are on immunity-suppressing medications.
• Growth monitoring is recommended for children using inhaled steroids.
• Avoid alcohol consumption while on this medication, as it may worsen your condition.

What happens if a dose of DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler is missed?

If you miss a 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 DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler be stored?

Store DIGIHALER FB 400 Inhaler in its tightly closed container in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Some sources recommend storing at 20°C-25°C.