Do you have COPD and need Revefenacin? Let's talk about this medicine in simple terms (Revefenacin)

Do you also have COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)? Then you probably know very well how difficult it is to breathe. So, a special medicine that allows you to control this condition in the long term is Revefenacin. This is a solution that is used through a nebulizer. Let's see everything about this medicine simply, in a way that you can understand.

Simply put, what is Revefenacin?

Revefenacin is a medication that helps control your COPD. To be precise, it's a 'controller medication' . This means that it works by widening the airways in your lungs and making it easier to breathe. The goal is to use it daily to keep the disease under control.

This medicine is commonly available under the brand name YUPELRI. Sometimes this medicine can be used for other things, ask your doctor about it.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication

Before giving you this medicine, it is very important that your doctor knows your complete health history. You should especially tell him/her if you have any of the conditions below.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is used with the help of a nebulizer. Simply put, the nebulizer turns the medicine, which is in liquid form, into a fine mist (aerosol) that you can breathe in. Then, when you inhale this mist through your mouth or through your mouth and nose, it goes directly into your lungs.

• Do not mix with other medications: Do not mix this medication with any other medication in your nebulizer.
• Take the correct dose: Take the medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes, for the prescribed amount of time. Do not use more than prescribed.
• Read the instructions: This medicine comes with an INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE leaflet. Read it carefully and understand it. If there is anything you are not sure about, ask your doctor.

What to do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, 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 once to make up for a missed dose.

What if I take too much medicine?

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 Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not delay.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

You should tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbs, vitamins, and supplements. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol, as some things can interact with these medications.

Below are some medications that may interact with Revefenacin. This list is not complete. It is best to tell your doctor about everything you are taking.

• Aclidinium
• Atropine
• Glycopyrrolate
• Ipratropium
• Tiotropium
• Umeclidinium
• Cyclosporine
• Rifampin
• Some medicines for allergies, coughs, and colds (Antihistamines)
• Some medications for bladder problems (e.g. oxybutynin, tolterodine)
• Some medications for Parkinson's disease (e.g. benztropine, trihexyphenidyl)
• Some medicines for stomach upset (e.g. dicyclomine, hyoscyamine)
• Some medications for motion sickness (e.g. scopolamine)

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

• See your doctor regularly: While using the medication, go to your doctor's appointments and have your health checked regularly.
• Report symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve, tell your doctor.
• If symptoms get worse: If your symptoms, such as shortness of breath, get worse while using the medicine, call your doctor right away.
• Do not let it get into your eyes: If this medicine gets into your eyes, it can cause eye irritation, pain, and blurred vision. So be careful.
• Keep your nebulizer clean: Always keep your nebulizer clean as instructed in the instructions that come with your medication.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Like any medicine, Revefenacin can cause side effects in some people. Some are serious, while others are mild. Please refer to the table below for more information.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.

How do you keep your medicine safe?

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius).
• Keep vials in the foil pouch they came in until ready to use.
• Do not use any medicine left after the expiration date and discard it.

How do I dispose of leftover or expired medicine?

It is not advisable to release medications into the environment, so it is best to ask your doctor for advice on how to safely dispose of leftover or expired medications.