Salbair B Inhaler

SALBAIR B INHALER

Name

• Common Name: SALBAIR B INHALER / SALBAIR B TRANSHALER
• Brand Name: SALBAIR B INHALER by LUPIN LTD

Composition

SALBAIR B INHALER is a combination medicine containing two active ingredients:

• Beclomethasone: (50 mcg or 100 mcg depending on the variant) A corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory properties that prevents the release of certain chemicals in the body causing inflammation (swelling) of the airways.
• Levosalbutamol (also known as Levalbuterol): (50 mcg or 100 mcg depending on the variant) A bronchodilator that works by relaxing the muscles in the airways, widening them, and making breathing easier.

Uses

SALBAIR B INHALER is primarily used to manage and prevent symptoms associated with:

• Asthma: It helps relieve wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness caused by narrowing of the airways. It is not for sudden asthma attacks.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): It is used to treat bronchoconstriction in patients with COPD, improving lung function and relieving chronic cough and breathing difficulties.
• Prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm: It can help prevent breathing difficulties during physical activity.

Dosage and Administration

SALBAIR B INHALER is for inhalation use only and should be used as advised by a physician.

• The medicine is inhaled through the mouth into the lungs, not via the nose.
• Shake the inhaler before use.
• While breathing in from the mouth, press down on the inhaler once to release the medication and hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat as advised by the doctor.
• Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out or brush your teeth after each use to help reduce the chance of fungal infections.
• The correct dose and duration depend on age, body weight, and disease condition. It is important to take it every day at the same time to maintain a consistent level of medication. Do not stop using the medicine unless advised by a doctor, even if symptoms subside.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache.
• Throat irritation, hoarseness of voice, sore throat.
• Oral thrush or fungal infection of the mouth.
• Cough, cold.
• Dizziness, nervousness, tremor.
• Palpitations (fast heart rate).
• Nausea, vomiting, dry mouth.

Serious side effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (sudden wheezing, skin rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue, breathing difficulties), exacerbation of the previous condition, or signs of reduced adrenal function. Contact your doctor if any side effects worsen or persist.

Precautions

• Not for acute attacks: This inhaler should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks; a fast-acting 'rescue' inhaler should be used instead.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have lung infections, liver problems, kidney problems, heart problems, diabetes, hypertension, fits, or thyroid problems.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use in pregnant or breastfeeding women only if considered necessary by the physician.
• Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is not recommended while using this medicine as it can worsen side effects like dizziness and weakness.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid using with anticholinergic, beta-adrenergic agents, beta-blockers, diuretics, digoxin, MAO inhibitors, or antidepressants. High doses of corticosteroids with higher doses of salbutamol may increase the risk of hypokalemia.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 4 years of age.
• Smoking: Smoking should be avoided as it irritates the lungs and can worsen the condition.

Storage

• Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the medicine in its original container, tightly closed.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not freeze.

Here are frequently asked questions about SALBAIR B INHALER by LUPIN LTD:

What is SALBAIR B INHALER used for?

SALBAIR B INHALER is primarily used for the treatment and management of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in adults and children aged 4 years or older. It helps relieve symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness caused by the narrowing of airways. This inhaler is for maintenance treatment and helps prevent asthma attacks; it should not be used to provide immediate relief for sudden, severe asthma attacks, for which a separate rescue inhaler is needed.

How does SALBAIR B INHALER work?

SALBAIR B INHALER is a combination medication containing Beclomethasone and Levosalbutamol (a form of Salbutamol). Beclomethasone is an inhaled corticosteroid that works by reducing swelling and inflammation in the airways, while Levosalbutamol is a bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in the airways, widening them and making breathing easier. This dual action helps control inflammation long-term and provides relief by opening the air passages.

What is the usual dosage for SALBAIR B INHALER?

The dosage of SALBAIR B INHALER should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is meant for inhalation only, and the medicine should not be swallowed. For consistent medicine levels, it's generally advised to use it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking the inhaler suddenly, even if your symptoms improve, as this may cause your breathing problems to return or worsen.

What are the possible side effects of SALBAIR B INHALER?

Common side effects may include hoarseness of voice, sore throat, headache, fungal infection in the mouth (thrush), muscle cramps, nausea, dizziness, and cough. To help prevent oral fungal infections and throat irritation, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out, or brush your teeth after each use. While serious side effects are rare due to minimal systemic absorption, contact your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Is SALBAIR B INHALER safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: Consult your doctor before using SALBAIR B INHALER if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. While limited human studies are available, animal studies have shown potential harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against any risks. During Breastfeeding: SALBAIR B INHALER is probably safe to use during breastfeeding, as limited human data suggests the drug does not pose a significant risk to the baby. However, it is always best to consult your doctor to discuss your specific situation.

Can SALBAIR B INHALER be taken with other medications?

It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Certain medications can interact with SALBAIR B INHALER, such as other asthma medications, diuretics (which can lower potassium levels), medicines for HIV (like ritonavir), some antidepressants, beta-blockers, and digoxin. Your doctor can assess potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What precautions should be taken while using SALBAIR B INHALER?

Do not use this inhaler for sudden asthma attacks; always use your prescribed rescue inhaler for immediate relief. Ensure you are using the correct inhaler technique for optimal effectiveness. Avoid consuming alcohol, as it may cause excessive drowsiness or have unknown interactions with the medication. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing conditions such as kidney, liver, or heart problems, diabetes, hypertension, fits, thyroid issues, or glaucoma. Your doctor may monitor your blood potassium levels, especially if you are also taking diuretics.

What happens if a dose of SALBAIR B 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 dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should SALBAIR B INHALER be stored?

SALBAIR B INHALER should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, and kept out of the reach of children. Generally, it should be stored at room temperature, specifically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.