Medicine Information

Dilgly Unicap

Name: Dilgly Unicap
Brand: Dilgly Unicap
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Inhalation Capsule50 mcgBronchodilator (Long-acting Beta2-adrenergic Agonist)ATC: R03AC12

Generic Name

Salmeterol

Manufacturer

Hypothetical Pharma Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dilgly unicap 50 mcg inhalation capsule	৳ 50.00	৳ 500.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Dilgly Unicap 50 mcg Inhalation Capsule contains Salmeterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). It is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to help open the airways in the lungs.

Uses & Indications

Long-term maintenance treatment of asthma (in conjunction with an inhaled corticosteroid)

Maintenance treatment of bronchoconstriction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis

Prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm

Dosage

Adults

One 50 mcg inhalation capsule twice daily (morning and evening), approximately 12 hours apart.

Elderly

No dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients.

Renal_impairment

No dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.

How to Take

For oral inhalation only. The capsule should be placed in a suitable inhaler device (e.g., a dry powder inhaler designed for capsules) and the contents inhaled through the mouth. Do not swallow the capsule. Rinse mouth with water after use to minimize the risk of oral thrush and systemic absorption.

Mechanism of Action

Salmeterol selectively stimulates beta2-adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle of the bronchi, leading to bronchodilation. It acts locally in the lungs and has a prolonged duration of action (up to 12 hours) due to its lipophilic nature, allowing it to bind to the outer membrane of the beta2 receptor.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within 10-20 minutes

Excretion

Mainly excreted in feces (approximately 60%) and urine (approximately 25%) as metabolites.

Half life

Approximately 5.5 hours

Absorption

After inhalation, salmeterol is absorbed from the lungs and, to a lesser extent, from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations occur within 5 to 10 minutes.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver via hydroxylation by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) to an alpha-hydroxysalmeterol metabolite.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to Salmeterol or any component of the formulation
Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required

Drug Interactions

Beta-blockers

May blunt the bronchodilatory effect of salmeterol and potentially cause severe bronchospasm in asthmatic patients.

Diuretics (non-potassium-sparing)

May exacerbate ECG changes and/or hypokalemia potentially resulting from beta-agonists.

CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Ritonavir)

Can increase systemic exposure to salmeterol, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular adverse reactions.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include tremor, headache, palpitations, and tachycardia. In severe cases, hypokalemia and hyperglycemia may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including monitoring of cardiac function and serum potassium levels.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown whether salmeterol is excreted in human milk; use with caution in breastfeeding mothers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

30 capsules + inhaler60 capsules + inhaler

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, refer to packaging for specific expiry.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals

Approval Status

Approved (for Salmeterol)

Patent Status

Generic available

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Salmeterol has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in the long-term management of asthma and COPD.

Lab Monitoring

Routine lab monitoring is not typically required. In cases of overdose or significant systemic absorption, monitor serum potassium and glucose levels.

Doctor Notes

Emphasize that this medication is a controller, not a reliever. Patients must understand the correct inhalation technique.
Advise patients to always carry a short-acting beta-agonist for acute symptoms.

Patient Guidelines

Ensure proper inhaler technique as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not swallow the capsule; it is for inhalation only.
Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to prevent oral candidiasis.
This medicine is for maintenance therapy, not for sudden relief of breathing problems.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

Generally no effect on the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience dizziness, tremor, or visual disturbances, avoid such activities.

Lifestyle Advice

Avoid smoking and exposure to respiratory irritants.
Regular exercise (as advised by physician) and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can improve lung function.