Do you also have a long-term lung disease, which we medically call COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)? Then you probably know very well how difficult it is to breathe sometimes. So, to control such conditions, a special type of inhaler is called Umeclidinium. This is an inhaler that comes in the form of a dry powder. Let's talk about this clearly today.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, Umeclidinium is a 'controller' inhaler. Its job is to widen the airways in your lungs, keeping them open, making it easier for you to breathe. When used daily, it can help control your condition and prevent breathing difficulties.
However, there is one very important thing to remember. This is not a medicine to use when you have a sudden COPD flare-up. Your doctor may have given you a separate 'reliever' inhaler to use in such an emergency. This is only used for long-term control of the disease.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before you start using this inhaler, it is imperative that you inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Your situation | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure in the eye increases. | There is a small chance that this medication may cause further increases in eye pressure. |
| Bladder problems or difficulty urinating. | This medication may sometimes make this condition slightly worse. |
| Prostate problems in men. | This can also be related to difficulty urinating. |
| Allergies to umeclidinium, lactose, milk proteins, or any other medicine or food . | This is essential to prevent serious allergic reactions. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby . | The doctor will determine the potential impact on the fetus. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother . | To consider whether the medicine passes to the baby through breast milk. |
How to use the inhaler correctly?
This medicine is inhaled through the mouth. It is very important to use it at the same time every day . Use it only as directed by your doctor, and only for the number of times prescribed. Never use more than your doctor tells you to use. Continue using it until your doctor tells you to stop.
When you are given a medicine, read the patient package insert carefully. Understand the instructions in it carefully. If there is anything you do not understand, ask your doctor. This medicine is not approved for use in children.
What if the medicine is used too much?
If you think you have overdosed, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
This medicine is prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else. Everyone's condition is different.
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 a double dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Some other medications you are taking may interact with this inhaler, so it is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| Type of medicine | Examples |
|---|---|
| Some medicines for colds, coughs, and allergies (Antihistamines) | - |
| Atropine | - |
| Medicines for bladder problems | Oxybutynin, Tolterodine |
| Some medicines for stomach upset | Dicyclomine, Hyoscyamine |
| Medicines for travel discomfort | Scopolamine |
| Some medications for Parkinson's disease | Benztropine, Trihexyphenidyl |
| Other similar inhaler types | Ipratropium, Tiotropium |
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements you are taking.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can have some side effects. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
| Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat. |
| Eye problems | Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, seeing halos around lights. |
| Difficulty urinating | Difficulty or pain when urinating. |
| Increased difficulty breathing | Wheezing (increased difficulty breathing) after using the inhaler. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | - |
| Cough | - |
| Dry mouth | - |
| Headache | - |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, please ask your doctor about them as well.
How should I store the medicine?
Keep the inhaler out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from extreme heat, cold, and moisture.
It is important to know exactly when to remove the inhaler.
- After 6 weeks of taking the inhaler out of the foil packet,
- Or if the dose counter shows '0' ,
- Or if the expiration date arrives ,
The first of these three things to happen is to throw away your inhaler. Ask your doctor how to safely dispose of expired or no longer needed medications.
Take-Home Message
- Umeclidinium is a 'controller' inhaler used to control long-term respiratory diseases like COPD. Do not use this for emergencies.
- Take it at the same time every day, exactly as your doctor has prescribed. Do not take two doses at once.
- If you have conditions such as glaucoma, prostate problems, or allergies, tell your doctor before taking the medication.
- If you experience symptoms such as sudden allergic reactions, eye pain, difficulty urinating, or difficulty breathing after using the inhaler, seek medical advice immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines).
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