Did your doctor prescribe a new inhaler because you have asthma? Was it called Mometasone with Formoterol? Are you confused about how to use it and what precautions you need to take? Don't worry, it's normal. Let's talk about everything simply and clearly.
What kind of medicine is this? What is a 'controller'?
Simply put, this is a medicine that prevents your asthma symptoms from happening. That's why it's called a 'controller inhaler'. It needs to be used daily, as prescribed by your doctor.
Think of it like putting out a fire before it starts. This inhaler contains two main types of medication:
1. Mometasone: This is a type of medicine called an 'inhaled steroid'. It works by reducing the mild swelling and inflammation that is often present in your lungs and airways. When this swelling is reduced, the space inside the airways increases.
2. Formoterol: This is a type of medicine called a 'long-acting bronchodilator' (LABA). It works by relaxing the muscles around your airways, helping to keep them open for longer. This makes breathing much easier.
Important: This is not the 'Reliever' inhaler (like the blue one) that you use when your asthma suddenly gets worse, that is, when you are tired or stressed. Your doctor will have given you specific instructions about which inhaler to use in an emergency. This should only be used when you are symptom-free, to control your condition.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important that your doctor knows your full medical history before prescribing this inhaler. If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor.
| Illness or condition | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | This medicine may slightly change blood sugar levels. |
| Eye diseases (e.g. Glaucoma, Cataracts) | Long-term use may affect eye pressure. |
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Heart rate or blood pressure may be affected. |
| Immune system weakness or infections | There may be a slight effect on the ability to fight infections. |
| Liver disease | Medications can affect the process of eliminating them from the body. |
| Osteoporosis | Long-term use can affect bone strength. |
| Other diseases (e.g., pheochromocytoma, seizures, thyroid disease) | These medical conditions can affect the effectiveness of the medication. |
| If you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | It is very important to take care of your child's health. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or substances | To find out if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in the medicine. |
How do I use this inhaler correctly?
To get the most out of your medication, it is very important to use your inhaler correctly.
1. Shake well: Shake the inhaler well before use.
2. Breathe in through your mouth: Inhale the medicine with a deep breath through your mouth as directed by your doctor or nurse.
3. Rinse your mouth (required!): When you're finished using the inhaler, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out. Remember not to swallow the water, okay? This is to prevent the medication from remaining in your mouth and throat and causing infections like thrush.
4. Take it on time: Get in the habit of taking your medicine at the same time every day. That way, you won't forget.
5. Don't stop: Even if you feel better now, don't stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to. This is a medicine that should be used even after the symptoms have disappeared.
6. For children over 5 years of age: Sometimes this medicine is prescribed for children over 5 years of age. But it requires special care. The doctor will regularly monitor the child's development.
What if I miss a medication appointment?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have overdosed on this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using an inhaler
- See your doctor regularly: Visit your doctor on scheduled days to check on your condition. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor.
- Asthma Action Plan: Work with your doctor to create a specific 'Asthma Action Plan' for yourself. This means you need to know clearly what to do when your asthma is mild (Yellow Zone) and what to do if your asthma is severe and an emergency situation occurs (Red Zone).
- Be careful of infections: This medicine may have a slight effect on your immunity. So try to stay away from people who have a fever or cold. If you develop symptoms like fever or sore throat, do not self-medicate and tell your doctor.
- Bone health: Long-term use of inhalers like this can affect bone strength. Talk to your doctor about your bone health.
What side effects can you experience?
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. But most people don't get them. If something does happen, it's important to know what it is.
| If you experience these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately or go to a hospital. | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly, dizziness, chest pain. |
| Difficulty breathing after using the inhaler | If you feel more tired or irritable after taking the medicine. |
| Thrush | White spots appear inside the mouth. |
| Other | Increased blood pressure, muscle pain or stiffness. |
| These things are usually not dangerous, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Headache | Sore or scratchy throat |
| Voice change (Hoarseness) | Dry mouth |
| Difficulty falling asleep | Tremors |
*Note: This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor.*
How should you hold the inhaler?
- Keep away from children: Always keep medicines out of the reach of children and pets.
- Temperature: Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Keep away from extreme heat, extreme cold, and moisture.
- Keep away from fire: This is flammable. So keep it away from fire, high heat, and smoking.
- Disposal: Throw away the inhaler when the dose counter on the inhaler reads "0" or when the expiration date has passed. Ask your doctor how to safely dispose of an inhaler that has expired or is no longer needed.
Take-Home Message
- This inhaler is a controller , not a reliever.
- Always rinse your mouth with water after using the inhaler and throw the water out.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take, even vitamins.
- Work with your doctor to create a personalized 'Asthma Action Plan' for you.
- Even if you feel better, do not stop taking the medication without your doctor's advice.
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