Flixotide Accuhaler (fluticasone) contains a corticosteroid and is most widely used as a maintenance inhaler to alleviate inflammation and irritation in the lungs of patients with asthma or COPD. With dosage modifications, it can be used in patients as young as 4 years old.

The medication is administered via the Accuhaler, a plastic, disk-shaped inhaler designed to hold a number of doses individually packaged in blister compartments. When activated, one of the blisters is pierced and the medication is ready to be inhaled. The Accuhaler counts down how many doses are left so patients know when to purchase a refill.

Rarely some patients may be prescribed Flixotide Accuhaler for other lung conditions. However, it should not be used when there is an infection in the lungs, throat, or mouth; like all steroids, it inhibits the immune system's response and may cause the infection the become considerably worse.

Flixotide Accuhaler is also strictly a maintenance inhaler. It will not help alleviate immediate breathing difficulties. Patients should always have a rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, on hand for use if needed.

Patients who use Flixotide Accuhaler should experience easier breathing, fewer attacks, and reduced dependency on rescue inhalers.

Dosage & Administration

Dosage of Flixotide Accuhaler will depend on a number of factors, including age and severity of the condition it's treating. It is available in a number of strengths; 50, 100, 250, or 500 micrograms (mcg) in each dose. Children typically take 50 to 200 mcg twice per day, adults take anywhere from 100 to 1000 mcg twice per day.

Ideally a doctor will determine dosage; if doctor input is not available, patients new to the product should start with lower doses (100 to 250 mcg) and increase only if needed. Do not exceed 2000 mcg in a single day (1000 mcg taken twice).

Treatment is typically:

• Some patients may be started on a relatively high dose, to be lowered after breathing is under control.
• Other patients may be started on a lower dose, increased only if needed.
• The medication is usually taken twice per day, morning and evening.
• The Accuhaler does not need to be shaken.
• Rinse the mouth with water after each dose to prevent infection.

Many patients notice a difference about 24 hours after starting treatment, but it will take about two weeks to see full benefit. If there is no significant improvement after two weeks, dosage may be increased. If still no benefit, alternative treatments should be considered; the medication doesn't work for everyone.

Flixotide Accuhaler can be used for as long as it provides benefit, which is often for years or indefinitely. Dosage may periodically be changed when it is used long term. Short term or sporadic use will not provide significant benefit.

Note that when the Accuhaler is opened a dose will be ready to be inhaled. Closing the Accuhaler without inhaling the dose will cause it to be permanently lost. Do not open/close the Flixotide Accuhaler frivolously!

Precautions & Adverse Reactions

Some individuals may not be good candidates for Flixotide Accuhaler; be sure to speak with a doctor before use if there is a history of:

• Lung or systemic infection, such as tuberculosis
• Cataracts, glaucoma, or eye infections
• Osteoporosis (bone loss)
• Liver impairment

Additionally, long-term use of Flixotide Accuhaler---or any steroid use---in children may stunt growth and cause other permanent complications. However, this risk may be preferable to impaired breathing. These complications aren't guaranteed to happen and are most likely to occur if high doses of steroids are given over the long term.

In all ages long-term steroid use can reduce the body's ability to respond to stress. Again this is usually only an issue if using very high doses over the long term, but it is a small risk among other patients as well. Notify all doctors and dentists that Flixotide Accuhaler---and again any other steroids---are being used prior to surgery or emergency treatment.

In most cases patients do not experience problems from Flixotide Accuhaler, or only mild side effects. Commonly reported side effects include:

• Throat irritation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Persistent cough
• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract irritation or infection

As steroids inhibit the immune system's response, patients using Flixotide Accuhaler are a bit more susceptible to infection, particularly respiratory infection. Care should be taken to avoid coming into contact with others who have contagious respiratory ailments, and if an infection is suspected, a doctor should be seen so it can be addressed quickly.

Effects on unborn or nursing infants are unclear; speak with a doctor about risks versus benefits.