You have asthma, so your doctor may have told you to use an inhaler. As you probably know, most people with asthma use two types of inhalers. One is the blue 'Reliever' inhaler, which is used when you suddenly feel tired. The other is the 'Controller' inhaler, which is used every day to control your asthma. Today we are going to talk about the second type, the Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI), which contains a medicine called Fluticasone, which is used to control asthma.
What kind of medicine is this Fluticasone?
Simply put, Fluticasone is a steroid. But this is not like the steroids we take in pills. This is one that is designed to go directly into your airways, that is, the airways where you breathe. This is called an 'inhaled steroid'.
The main function of this is to reduce inflammation , that is, swelling and sensitivity, in your airways. Think of asthma as a condition where your airways are constantly slightly swollen, red, and very sensitive. When you use this inhaler every day, that swelling decreases and your airways calm down. It then becomes easier to breathe, and the sudden attacks of asthma are also much less painful.
The most important thing: This is a controller inhaler . This means that it is used to prevent asthma attacks. It is not a medicine to use when you suddenly feel tired or dizzy. At such times, you should use the 'Reliever' inhaler that your doctor has given you (e.g. Salbutamol).
Things to tell your doctor before using the medicine
It is very important that your doctor is fully aware of your health condition before giving you this inhaler. Therefore, if any of the questions below apply to you, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| The situation that concerns you | Description |
|---|---|
| Eye diseases | If you have a condition like cataracts or glaucoma. |
| Immune system weaknesses | If your body's resistance to disease is low. |
| Current infections | Especially if you have a viral infection like chickenpox, herpes, or any other infection. |
| Osteoporosis | If a doctor has told you that your bones are weak and break easily. |
| Taking other steroid medications | If you are already taking a steroid pill like Prednisolone. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to fluticasone, lactose in milk, other steroids, or any other medicine. |
How to use the inhaler correctly?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly.
1. Inhale through your mouth: This inhaler is meant to be inhaled through your mouth. In order for the powder to reach your lungs, you need to take a deep, rapid breath.
2. Use according to the schedule: Use the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the prescribed time, and for the prescribed number of times. Even if your symptoms improve, do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.
3. Rinse your mouth (required!): After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out. Never swallow the water. This is to prevent the development of fungal infections (thrush) in the mouth and throat.
4. Read the instruction leaflet: Read the instruction leaflet that comes with your inhaler carefully. If you are not sure how to use it, ask your doctor for more information.
What if the dose increases?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
Use by children
This medication is sometimes prescribed for children over 4 years of age. However, when using it, the doctor will always monitor the child's growth (height).
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
- Asthma Action Plan: Talk to your doctor and create an 'Asthma Action Plan' that is specific to you. This means you need to know clearly what to do when your asthma is mildly worsening (yellow zone), and what to do if your asthma is very severe and an emergency occurs (red zone).
- Keep a 'Reliever' inhaler handy: Remember, this is just a controller inhaler. Keep a 'Reliever' inhaler (like the blue one) with you at all times to use if you have a sudden urge to breathe.
- Protect yourself from infections: This medicine may slightly reduce your body's immunity. Therefore, if you experience symptoms like fever, cold, or sore throat, do not self-medicate and see a doctor. Try to stay away from sick people.
- Bone and eye health: There is a risk of osteoporosis and cataracts or glaucoma when using this medicine for a long time. Therefore, talk to your doctor about your bone health and get your eyes checked regularly.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, this one can have side effects, but not everyone gets them.
| Side effects of fluticasone inhaler | |
|---|---|
Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Thrush | White spots inside the mouth or on the tongue (this can be prevented by rinsing the mouth). |
| Increasing difficulty breathing | If you experience increased wheezing or difficulty breathing after using the inhaler. |
| Decreased adrenal function | Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, dizziness. |
Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Throat disorders | Sore throat, voice change or hoarseness. |
| Other features | Headache, diarrhea (bloating), cough, change in taste. |
Take-Home Message
- Fluticasone inhaler is a 'controller' medicine that prevents asthma attacks. Do not use it for emergency relief.
- After using the inhaler , be sure to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.
- Always keep your 'Reliever' inhaler (for emergencies) nearby.
- Talk to your doctor and create an 'Asthma Action Plan' .
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal medicines).
- Never stop using this medicine without your doctor's advice.
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