Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Breo Ellipta.
Asthma-related deaths: When used for asthma treatment, another medication in the same class as vilanterol (LABAs) has been linked to an increase in asthma-related deaths. The use of inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone, with LABAs appears to reduce the risk of serious asthma-related events. If you experience worsening symptoms or your "rescue" medications are not as effective as usual, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.
Diabetes: Breo Ellipta may cause an increase in blood sugar levels and glucose tolerance may change. People with diabetes may find it necessary to monitor their blood sugar more frequently while using Breo Ellipta.
If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Breo Ellipta may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Breo Ellipta, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Eye problems: Fluticasone may increase the risk of developing cataracts or glaucoma. If you are at risk of developing either of these conditions, have your eyes checked by your doctor before starting long-term treatment with Breo Ellipta. You should have your eyes monitored at regular intervals while using Breo Ellipta.
Heart conditions: Vilanterol may cause increased blood pressure, rapid heart rate or irregular heart rhythms, including an irregular heartbeat called QT prolongation. QT prolongation is a serious life-threatening condition that can cause fainting, seizures, and sudden death. If you are at risk for heart rhythm problems (e.g., people with heart failure, Angina, low potassium or magnesium levels), high blood pressure or other heart disease, discuss with your doctor how Breo Ellipta may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Breo Ellipta, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Infections: Breo Ellipta, like other corticosteroids, may prevent the early signs of a serious infection from being noticed. Try to limit the amount of time you spend around others who have recently had infections such as Chickenpox or Measles. If you do come into contact with someone who has one of these infections, contact your doctor for advice.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause fluticasone to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Breo Ellipta may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Breo Ellipta, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Oral hygiene: Fluticasone may cause thrush infection in the mouth and throat. Adequate oral hygiene is very important in minimizing the overgrowth of microorganisms such as Candidiasis (thrush). To reduce the risk of infection, gargle with water after each use of Breo Ellipta.
Osteoporosis: Long-term use of medications like fluticasone may increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. If you have osteoporosis or are at risk for developing osteoporosis, discuss with your doctor how Breo Ellipta may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Breo Ellipta, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pneumonia: People using fluticasone-vilanterol to treat COPD may be at an increased risk of developing pneumonia. If you experience symptoms of pneumonia, such as fever, chills, shortness of breath, cough or chest pain, get medical attention as soon as possible.
Seizures: People with seizure disorders may be more likely to experience side effects of vilanterol. If you have a seizure disorder, discuss with your doctor how Breo Ellipta may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Breo Ellipta, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Steroid medication use: If you have taken or are still taking oral steroid medications over the last several months, consult with your doctor before using Breo Ellipta. In times of stress or during a severe asthma attack, your doctor may want you to start your oral steroid medication again.
Thyroid problems: People with thyroid conditions may be more likely to experience side effects of vilanterol. If you have an overactive thyroid gland, discuss with your doctor how Breo Ellipta may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Breo Ellipta, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Wheezing: Breo Ellipta may cause the airways to spasm immediately after using the inhaler. If this happens, use your rescue inhaler as soon as possible to relieve the symptoms, then call your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: Breo Ellipta should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Breo Ellipta, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if fluticasone - vilanterol passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Breo Ellipta, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: Breo Ellipta is not intended for use by children. The safety and effectiveness of using Breo Ellipta have not been established for children or people under the age of eighteen.
