Flixotide

Flixotide is a preventer inhaler that is used for long-term daily management of asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It is available in two forms: as an Evohaler (pressurised aerosol inhaler) or an Accuhaler (dry powder inhaler).

Flixotide helps to improve breathing control over time and lowers the risk of flare-ups and asthma attacks. It is usually used alongside a reliever inhaler (or rescue inhaler), such as Ventolin.

The active ingredient in Flixotide, fluticasone propionate, is a corticosteroid that works directly in the lungs. It reduces chronic inflammation and narrowing of the airways caused by asthma or COPD. In regular use, it helps calm down the inflammation and opens up the airways, making breathing easier.

Fluticasone propionate has been widely studied and clinical trials have proven it significantly improves lung function and reduces the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms in consistent use.

In a 54-week study, participants used fluticasone propionate either once or twice a day. Both regimens improved the patients’ PEF scores (a measure of how fast you can blow air out of your lungs) and reduced the need for reliever inhalers. Fluticasone was also shown to reduce the number of nighttime awakenings caused by asthma symptoms.

At 121doc, Flixotide can be prescribed to adults aged 18 or over who have been diagnosed with asthma or COPD. Most people can use this treatment safely, however, do not use it if:

• you are allergic to fluticasone propionate or other ingredients in Flixotide

Furthermore, tell your doctor if any of the below apply to you, as this treatment may not be safe for you:

• you are pregnant, or planning a pregnancy
• you are breastfeeding
• you have ever been treated for tuberculosis
• you are using or have recently stopped using steroid tablets, such as prednisolone

Flixotide starts working within a few days, but its full effects are usually reached in 1-2 weeks. It does not provide instant relief and is meant to be used as a long-term treatment.

Your doctor will decide on the correct dosage for you based on your individual needs, such as the severity of your symptoms.

The typical dose is taken twice daily, but the number of puffs you take will depend on the strength of your inhaler. Evohaler is available as 50 mcg and 125 mcg doses and Accuhaler as a 100 mcg dose.

Flixotide Evohaler and Accuhaler contain the exact same active ingredient, but the mechanism of these inhalers differs from each other. The Evohaler delivers the medicine as an aerosol mist and requires you to press the canister while breathing in to deliver your dose. Accuhaler is in a dry powder form and the dose is breath-actuated.

Which one you choose depends on your personal preferences. As the Accuhaler does not require you to coordinate pressing and inhaling, some users may find it easier to use than the Evohaler.

How you use Flixotide depends on the type of inhaler you have been prescribed.

Follow this step-by-step guide to use your Flixotide Evohaler correctly:

1. Remove the cap of the Evohaler and check that the mouthpiece is clean
2. Shake the inhaler well
3. Breathe out fully, away from the inhaler
4. Place the mouthpiece between your lips and seal your lips around it
5. Start breathing in slowly and deeply, then press down on the canister once
6. Continue breathing in until your lungs feel full
7. Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly
8. If you need a second dose, wait about 30 seconds and repeat steps 3-7

Follow these instructions to use your Flixotide Accuhaler correctly:

1. Hold the Accuhaler level and slide the thumb grip until you hear a click
2. To load the dose, push the lever away from you until it clicks
3. Breathe out fully, away from the mouthpiece
4. Place the mouthpiece between your lips
5. Breathe in quickly and deeply through your mouth
6. Remove the inhaler and hold your breath for about 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly
7. Slide the thumb grip back after each use to close the Accuhaler

It is advisable to rinse your mouth after using either one of these inhalers. This will reduce your risk of developing oral thrush.

What if I forget to use my inhaler?

If you forget to take your daily inhalation, do it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Flixotide is generally a well-tolerated medication, but like all prescription medications, it can cause some side effects. However, they are usually mild and temporary and not everyone will experience them.

The most common Flixotide side effects are:

• Dry or sore mouth or throat
• Hoarseness of voice
• Oral thrush in the mouth or throat
• Different taste in your mouth

For a full list of all potential side effects, refer to the patient information leaflet.

No, Flixotide and Ventolin are two different asthma treatments and they work in different ways. Flixotide contains fluticasone and is a preventer inhaler, while Ventolin contains salbutamol and is a reliever inhaler. Flixotide is used daily for prevention, while Ventolin is used only as needed when symptoms flare up. A reliever inhaler like Ventolin is commonly prescribed alongside Flixotide.

Yes. Fluticasone propionate, the active ingredient in Flixotide, belongs to the group of medicines called corticosteroids, which are often referred to as steroids. They are synthetic versions of hormones that are naturally produced by the adrenal gland and that control inflammation in the body.

No, you cannot get Flixotide inhalers without a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Safety is our number one priority at 121doc, and our doctors will only prescribe treatment if you meet the criteria in your online consultation.

A prescription from a trusted healthcare provider like 121doc ensures:

• safety during treatment
• effective results
• monitoring of side effects