Elipta
Generic Name
Fluticasone Furoate + Vilanterol
Manufacturer
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
Country
Varies by manufacturing site (e.g., UK, USA, Spain)
Loading images...
Description
Overview of the medicine
Elipta (also known as Breo Ellipta or Relvar Ellipta) is a combination inhaler containing a corticosteroid (fluticasone furoate) and a long-acting beta2-agonist (vilanterol). It is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Asthma: Fluticasone Furoate 100 mcg + Vilanterol 25 mcg once daily, or Fluticasone Furoate 200 mcg + Vilanterol 25 mcg once daily, depending on severity. COPD: Fluticasone Furoate 100 mcg + Vilanterol 25 mcg once daily.
Elderly
No dosage adjustment required.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment required.
How to Take
For oral inhalation only, once daily at the same time each day. Do not use to treat acute bronchospasm.
Mechanism of Action
Fluticasone furoate is a synthetic trifluorinated corticosteroid with potent anti-inflammatory activity. It acts by binding to glucocorticoid receptors, inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators. Vilanterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that stimulates beta2-receptors in the lungs, leading to bronchodilation.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 15 minutes for bronchodilation (Vilanterol component)
Excretion
Primarily via feces, with minor excretion via urine.
Half life
Fluticasone furoate: Approximately 24 hours (terminal half-life). Vilanterol: Approximately 11 hours (terminal half-life).
Absorption
Fluticasone furoate: Low systemic bioavailability (approx. 15.2% due to extensive first-pass metabolism). Vilanterol: Rapidly absorbed, systemic bioavailability approx. 27% (due to first-pass metabolism).
Metabolism
Both fluticasone furoate and vilanterol are extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily via CYP3A4.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required
- Severe milk protein allergy
Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers
May block the pulmonary effect of vilanterol and produce severe bronchospasm in patients with COPD. If concomitant use is necessary, cardioselective beta-blockers should be used with caution (e.g., propranolol).
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
May increase systemic exposure to fluticasone furoate and vilanterol, potentially leading to increased systemic corticosteroid and LABA adverse effects (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin).
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C). Do not store in the refrigerator. Keep in the original foil tray until ready for use to protect from moisture and light.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to exacerbation of expected side effects, such as cardiovascular effects (tachycardia, arrhythmias), tremor, headache, and signs of hypercorticism. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if the components are excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required
- Severe milk protein allergy
Drug Interactions
Beta-blockers
May block the pulmonary effect of vilanterol and produce severe bronchospasm in patients with COPD. If concomitant use is necessary, cardioselective beta-blockers should be used with caution (e.g., propranolol).
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors
May increase systemic exposure to fluticasone furoate and vilanterol, potentially leading to increased systemic corticosteroid and LABA adverse effects (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin).
Storage
Store at room temperature (below 30°C). Do not store in the refrigerator. Keep in the original foil tray until ready for use to protect from moisture and light.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to exacerbation of expected side effects, such as cardiovascular effects (tachycardia, arrhythmias), tremor, headache, and signs of hypercorticism. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is unknown if the components are excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 12 months from manufacture, or 6 weeks after opening the foil tray, whichever comes first. Refer to package insert for exact details.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by FDA, EMA, DGDA (Bangladesh)
Patent Status
Patented by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for a certain period; generic versions may exist after patent expiry or through licensing.
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Elipta (Breo/Relvar Ellipta) in both asthma and COPD, including studies like the SUMMIT and IMPACT trials for COPD, and various phase 3 trials for asthma.
Lab Monitoring
- Monitor for signs of adrenal insufficiency during withdrawal from systemic corticosteroids
- Monitor for paradoxical bronchospasm
- Monitor for signs of pneumonia in COPD patients
Doctor Notes
- Elipta is for maintenance therapy; not for acute exacerbations.
- Counsel patients on proper inhaler technique and mouth rinsing.
- Monitor for signs of pneumonia in COPD patients, particularly those initiating therapy.
Patient Guidelines
- Ensure proper inhaler technique as instructed by a healthcare professional
- Rinse mouth with water and spit out after each use to reduce the risk of oral candidiasis
- Do not use Elipta for sudden, acute breathing problems; use a separate rescue inhaler as prescribed
- Seek medical attention if breathing problems worsen or if the inhaler does not provide usual relief
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, the next dose should be taken at the usual time the next day. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no specific precautions. However, if side effects like dizziness or blurred vision occur, patients should avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid triggers that worsen asthma or COPD symptoms (e.g., smoke, allergens)
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent oral candidiasis
- If you smoke, consider quitting as it significantly impacts respiratory health
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Elipta Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
