Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
The trio of fluticasone, umeclidinium, and vilanterol is utilized to manage symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a condition which leads to wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. It is also employed in adults to alleviate wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness caused by asthma.
Fluticasone is classified as a steroid medication. Umeclidinium belongs to the anticholinergic medication class, while vilanterol is part of the long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) medication class. The combination of these three drugs functions by easing and widening air passages in the lungs, thus facilitating better breathing.
Uses and Dosage
The combination of fluticasone, umeclidinium, and vilanterol is a powder that is meant to be inhaled by mouth using a specialized inhaler. It is typically used once daily, preferably at the same time each day. Carefully follow the instructions on your prescription label and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain anything that you do not understand.
Do not use more or less of this medication than prescribed, and do not use it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Do not use fluticasone, umeclidinium, and vilanterol inhalation during a sudden attack of COPD or asthma. Your doctor will prescribe a short-acting inhaler to be used during such attacks.
Fluticasone, umeclidinium, and vilanterol inhalation does not cure COPD or asthma but rather helps to control it. Even if you feel well, continue to use this medication as directed by your doctor, and do not stop using it without first consulting with them. Discontinuing use of this medication may result in the return of your symptoms.
Prior to using fluticasone, umeclidinium, and vilanterol inhalation for the first time, read the provided instructions carefully. Ask your doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist to demonstrate how to use the inhaler, and practice while being observed by them.
After inhalation, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out; do not swallow the water.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nervousness
- shaking of a part of your body that you cannot control
- runny nose or sore throat
- taste changes
- back pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hives
- rash
- swelling of the face, throat, or tongue
- pounding fast, or irregular heartbeat
- chest pain
- coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness that begins after you inhale the medication
- feeling tired, weakness, nausea, vomiting, or lack of energy
- difficulty urinating or urinating in a weak stream or drips
- frequent or painful urination
- white patches in the mouth or throat
- fever, chills, or other signs of infection
- cough, difficulty breathing, or change in the color of sputum
Caution
Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, particularly to fluticasone, umeclidinium, or vilanterol, or any other allergies you may have before using this medication. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other complications.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have a history of current/past infections (such as tuberculosis, herpes), heart problems, high blood pressure, bone loss (osteoporosis), personal or family history of eye problems, difficulty urinating, seizures, overactive thyroid, diabetes, or liver disease.
This product can cause a condition that affects the heart rhythm (QT prolongation). QT prolongation can rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) fast/irregular heartbeat and other symptoms (such as severe dizziness, fainting) that require immediate medical attention.
Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood may also increase your risk of QT prolongation. This risk may be higher if you use certain drugs (such as diuretics/”water pills”) or have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
This product can increase your susceptibility to infections or worsen existing infections. Avoid contact with individuals who have infections that can spread to others. If you have been exposed to an infection or for further information, please consult your doctor.
If you have switched from a corticosteroid taken by mouth to this inhaler in the last 12 months, or if you have used this product in higher-than-usual doses for an extended period, your body may have difficulty responding to physical stress.
Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication or have used a corticosteroid taken by mouth in the last 12 months before undergoing surgery or emergency treatment or if you have a severe illness or injury. If you experience unusual/extreme tiredness or weight loss, notify your doctor immediately.
If used for an extended period, this medication can temporarily slow down a child’s growth. Poorly controlled asthma can also hinder growth. Regularly visit your doctor so that your child’s height can be checked.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, particularly QT prolongation.
This medication should only be used during pregnancy if it is clearly necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown whether this medication passes into breast milk. Before breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.
Form and Strength
Trelegy Ellipta is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Trelegy Ellipta inhalation powder:
- 100/62.5/25mcg
- 200/62.5/25mcg
FAQ
How long does it take for your body to adjust to Trelegy Ellipta?
It may take a few weeks before you notice that you can breathe more easily.
What happens if you smoke while taking Trelegy Ellipta?
Trelegy Ellipta may increase your chance of getting pneumonia. You have an even higher chance if you smoke.
Resources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/trelegy-ellipta#dosage
- https://ca.gsk.com/media/6215/trelegy-ellipta_pm-part-3_en.pdf
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/trelegy-ellipta
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-174197/trelegy-ellipta-inhalation/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a618017.html
- https://www.drugs.com/trelegy-ellipta.html
