Azmasol Plus
Generic Name
Salbutamol (Albuterol) Sulfate + Beclomethasone Dipropionate Inhaler
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
azmasol plus 90 mcg inhaler | ৳ 350.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Azmasol Plus 90 mcg Inhaler is a combination medication containing a short-acting beta-2 agonist (Salbutamol) and an inhaled corticosteroid (Beclomethasone). It is used for the regular treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 2 inhalations twice daily. May be adjusted by physician based on patient response.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment required, but caution should be exercised and monitor for side effects.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for renal impairment, but caution is advised in severe cases.
How to Take
For oral inhalation only. Shake the inhaler well before each use. Prime the inhaler if it's new or hasn't been used for a while. Inhale slowly and deeply through the mouth, pressing the canister firmly. Hold breath for 5-10 seconds. Rinse mouth with water after use to minimize risk of oral candidiasis.
Mechanism of Action
Salbutamol is a selective beta-2 adrenergic agonist that causes bronchodilation by relaxing smooth muscles in the airways. Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, thereby decreasing swelling and mucus production. The combination provides both rapid relief of bronchospasm and long-term inflammatory control.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Salbutamol: 5-15 minutes; Beclomethasone: Anti-inflammatory effects develop over days to weeks.
Excretion
Salbutamol and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Beclomethasone metabolites are primarily excreted in the feces, with a smaller portion in the urine.
Half life
Salbutamol: 3.8-5 hours; Beclomethasone (active metabolite): 2.8 hours.
Absorption
Salbutamol is rapidly absorbed from the lungs, with systemic bioavailability of about 10-20%. Beclomethasone dipropionate is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and rapidly hydrolyzed to its active metabolite, beclomethasone 17-monopropionate, in the lungs and liver.
Metabolism
Salbutamol is largely metabolized in the liver to an inactive sulfate conjugate. Beclomethasone dipropionate is extensively metabolized via esterases to its active metabolite beclomethasone 17-monopropionate, which is further metabolized to inactive products.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to salbutamol, beclomethasone, or any excipients.
- Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required.
- Acute bronchospasm (use only salbutamol for rescue, not the combo for acute relief unless prescribed specifically for that purpose).
Drug Interactions
Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide)
May potentiate hypokalemia, especially in high doses of salbutamol.
Other sympathomimetic agents
Concomitant use may lead to additive cardiovascular effects and is generally not recommended.
Beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol)
May antagonize the effects of salbutamol, causing severe bronchospasm in asthmatic patients. Concomitant use is generally contraindicated.
Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ritonavir, Ketoconazole)
Can increase systemic exposure to beclomethasone, potentially leading to Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
May potentiate the vascular effects of salbutamol, increasing risk of cardiovascular adverse events.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Protect from frost and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of salbutamol overdose include tachycardia, tremors, palpitations, headache, and hypokalemia. Symptoms of beclomethasone overdose may include adrenal suppression. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Consult a medical professional immediately.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult a doctor. Salbutamol may inhibit uterine contractions. Beclomethasone is generally considered safe. Exercise caution when administering to a nursing mother. Low levels of inhaled corticosteroids are excreted in breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 months (unopened)
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by health authorities (e.g., DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic/Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Information on clinical trials for Salbutamol and Beclomethasone combination is available in scientific literature, supporting its efficacy and safety in asthma and COPD management.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum potassium levels (especially in severe asthma or concomitant use of diuretics, xanthines, or steroids)
- Adrenal function (if high doses are used for prolonged periods)
- Lung function tests (e.g., FEV1, PEFR)
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize proper inhaler technique to patients.
- Advise patients to rinse mouth after use to prevent oral candidiasis.
- Distinguish between maintenance and rescue inhalers.
- Monitor for systemic corticosteroid effects with prolonged use.
Patient Guidelines
- Use regularly as prescribed, even when feeling well.
- Do not use for sudden breathing problems; use your rescue inhaler (e.g., plain salbutamol) instead.
- Rinse your mouth with water after each dose to prevent oral thrush.
- Ensure proper inhaler technique for effective delivery.
- Report any worsening of symptoms or side effects to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Generally, this medicine is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects like dizziness or tremor, avoid driving or operating machinery until these symptoms subside.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid triggers that worsen asthma/COPD (e.g., smoke, allergens).
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise (as tolerated) and a balanced diet.
- Consider getting annual flu vaccinations and pneumococcal vaccines as recommended.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine
Related
Medicines
Explore similar medicines to find the best option for your healthcare needs.
Exipain
Acme Laboratories Ltd.
EveFlex
MediCore Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Avilam
Various (e.g., Sanofi as Avil)
Avloquin-H
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Expreso Plus
Pharma Beximco
Exomi MUPS
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Timozin
MediCorp Pharma Ltd.
Axovit
Reputable Pharma Ltd.
Exler
Incepta Pharmaceuticals
Lotenate Plus
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.