Flixotide Evohaler

What is the Flixotide Evohaler?

Flixotide Evohaler is a preventer inhaler used to treat asthma. It is prescribed for asthma sufferers who need to use their blue reliever inhaler more than twice a week in order to manage the symptoms and stop them occurring. 

The Flixotide Evohaler for asthma

The Flixotide Evohaler is predominantly used to treat asthma. It's taken twice a day by inhaler to manage the condition and stop symptoms and asthma attacks from occurring. 

The Flixotide Evohaler for COPD

The Flixotide Evohaler can also be used to ease the symptoms of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) by reducing flare ups and soothing irritation in the lungs. 

Active ingredients

The active ingredient contained in Flixotide is fluticasone propionate.

Inactive ingredients

HFA 134a is the other ingredient.. 

Does the Flixotide Evohaler contain steroids?

Flixotide is a type of steroid. It contains fluticasone propionate which is a synthetic type of the chemical produced naturally by the body. These chemicals are called corticosteroids, more commonly known as steroids. They perform many functions in the body including inflammation control. The type of steroid in your inhaler is different to the anabolic steroids frequently used in bodybuilding. 

Flixotide Evohaler dosage

For children, the starting dose is 50mg. For adults and children over the age of 16 with mild asthma they will usually start with 100mg, whereas moderate-severe asthma sufferers will be prescribed with 250-500mg. Always take the correct dose as prescribed by your doctor.   

When to give the Flixotide

If you are giving Flixotide to your child or assisting an adult, it should be given twice a day as instructed by their doctor. Having a set time in the morning and evening can help to establish a routine. 

When to take the Flixotide Evohaler

The Flixotide Evohaler is usually taken twice every day, once in the morning and once at night. The exact times will depend on your schedule and lifestyle but it will be most effective when taken at the same times each day. 

How to take the Flixotide Evohaler

The Flixotide Evohaler should always be taken as directed by your doctor. Before using your inhaler for the first time, check it is working correctly by removing the mouthpiece cover and releasing a puff into the air. When you are ready, sit or stand up straight and steady your breathing. Shake the canister 4-5 times and remove the mouthpiece cover. Breathe out before sealing the mouthpiece between your lips. As your start to breathe in press down on the canister to release a puff of the medicine as you continue to inhale. Hold your breath for up to ten seconds before exhaling slowly. If you have been instructed to take another puff, wait for 30 seconds before repeating. Rinse out your mouth with water afterwards. 

When to stop taking the Flixotide Evohaler

You should only stop taking your Flixotide Evohaler if your doctor has said so. Your inhaler needs to be used everyday, even if you feel better and are no longer experiencing symptoms. This means that the medicine is working but your asthma is likely to be triggered if you stop using your inhaler correctly. 

Why do I need to use Flixotide Evohaler regularly?

The Flixotide Evohaler needs to be used regularly in order to manage your asthma and reduce the inflammation in your lungs. If not then your symptoms may not be under control leaving you at risk of having an asthma attack. 

What should I do if I forget to use my Flixotide Evohaler?

If you forget to use your Flixotide inhaler then take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed one. Don't double up the dose. You'll usually need to use your Flixotide Evohaler twice a day.

What should I do if I find I’ve used my Flixotide Evohaler more than I should have?

If you have taken too many puffs on your inhaler then it's unlikely to be a cause for concern. If this is something that worries you then it's always best to speak to a doctor to make sure. 

Flixotide Evohaler side effects

The most common side effect is oral thrush. This can be prevented by rinsing your mouth out with water after using your inhaler. Other common side effects are: 

• Hoarse voice 
• Bruising 

• Glaucoma 
• Cataracts 
• Osteoporosis 
• Cushing's syndrome 
• Mood changes
• Slowed growth in children 

Contraindications

Do not use Flixotide if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. Extra care should be taken if: 

• You have ever experienced tuberculosis in the lungs 
• You have a fungal or viral infection in the airways 
• You have diabetes 

Drug interactions

If you are taking any other medications then inform your doctor before taking Flixotide. Other treatments containing corticosteroids may increase the likelihood of experiencing side effects. The following medications may interact with Flixotide: 

• Ketoconazole 
• Itraconazole  
• Voriconazole
• Clarithromycin
• Telithromycin
• Cobicistat
• Ritonavir
• Telaprevir 

Flixotide and pregnancy

Flixotide is safe to use during pregnancy. Having asthma which is not under control poses more risk to the baby than medication taken via an inhaler.   

Can I take Flixotide and Ventolin together?

Ventolin can be used alongside Flixotide. Your Ventolin inhaler should be used to relieve symptoms during an asthma attack so you should always have it to hand just in case. 

Flixotide Accuhaler vs Flixotide Evohaler

The Flixotide Evohaler is known as a metered dose inhaler. This releases the medicine in a mist or fine spray format. The Accuhaler is a dry powdered inhaler. Each individual dose comes in a blistered pack which is released by sliding the lever on the inhaler. The Accuhaler may be easier to use if you find it difficult to push down on the Evohaler and breathe at the same time. Both types of inhaler contain the same medicine just in different formats. 

Will the Flixotide Evohaler treat an asthma attack?

Flixotide Evohalers should not be used to treat an asthma attack. If you have an asthma attack then always use your reliever inhaler instead. Your Flixotide inhaler is only for managing your asthma and preventing symptoms from flaring up. 

What does the Flixotide Evohaler taste like?

The Flixotide Evohaler may leave an unpleasant taste if it hits the back of your throat or tongue instead of going straight into your lungs. If it's taken correctly then you shouldn't be able to taste it. 

Is the Flixotide Evohaler safe for children?

The Flixotide Evohaler is suitable for children and it will be given as a smaller dose. It's recommended that you use a spacer to help your child to use their inhaler correctly. Do not give a child a Flixotide Evohaler unless advised to by their doctor.

Is the Flixotide Evohaler safe for long term use?

The Flixotide Evohaler is designed for long term use in order to manage your asthma so it's indeed safe for long term use. 

Can the Flixotide Evohaler be used for any other conditions?

The Flixotide Evohaler is used to treat asthma but it can also provide relief for COPD. It should only be used as your doctor has prescribed it.

How to doctors decide to prescribe the Flixotide Evohaler for children?

A doctor will thoroughly evaluate your child's symptoms before prescribing them treatment for asthma. They will only be given an inhaler like Flixotide if they have needed to use their reliever inhaler more than twice a week. The dose given will be smaller than what would be prescribed for an adult and calculated to ensure it is safe for children. Doctors must always weight up the risks and the benefits of any medication before prescribing it.

How does the Flixotide Evohaler affect the lungs?

The Flixotide Evohaler works by stopping the chemicals which trigger an allergic reaction response from being released into the lungs. This means it stops the lungs from getting inflamed, reducing wheezing, coughing, breathlessness and chest tightness. 

Sources

• Patient Information Leaflet
• NHS > Steroid Inhalers
• Medicines for Children > Fluticasone Inhaler
• My Dr > COPD Treatment and Management
• Baby Centre > Treating Asthma in Children