Understanding Dulera⁚ An Asthma Medication Guide
Dulera is a prescription medication used to manage and prevent asthma symptoms in individuals aged 5 and older. It combines two active ingredients⁚ mometasone (a corticosteroid) and formoterol (a long-acting beta-agonist). This guide will provide you with important information about Dulera‚ including how it works‚ its potential side effects‚ and essential precautions.
How Does Dulera Work?
Dulera tackles asthma symptoms through its two active ingredients⁚
- Mometasone⁚ This corticosteroid reduces inflammation in the airways‚ making it easier to breathe.
- Formoterol⁚ This long-acting beta-agonist relaxes the muscles around the airways‚ allowing them to open up and improve airflow.
Important Considerations Before Taking Dulera⁚
Before starting Dulera‚ discuss the following with your doctor⁚
* Allergies⁚ Inform your doctor of any allergies you have‚ particularly to mometasone‚ formoterol‚ arformoterol‚ or any other medications.
* Medical History⁚ Disclose your complete medical history‚ especially conditions like⁚
* Infections⁚ Tuberculosis‚ herpes‚ or any ongoing infections.
* Heart problems⁚ High blood pressure‚ chest pain‚ heart attack‚ irregular heartbeat.
* Thyroid problems⁚ Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
* Other conditions⁚ Seizures‚ bone loss (osteoporosis)‚ eye problems (cataracts‚ glaucoma)‚ diabetes‚ artery swelling (aneurysm)‚ adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma).
* Other Medications⁚ List all medications‚ supplements‚ and vitamins you are currently taking‚ as some may interact with Dulera.
Potential Side Effects⁚
Dulera‚ like any medication‚ may cause side effects. While not everyone experiences them‚ it’s important to be aware of the possibilities.
* Common side effects⁚
* Runny or stuffy nose
* Sinus pain
* Headache
* Cough
* Sore throat
* Hoarseness or deepened voice
* Dry mouth
* Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention)⁚
* Worsening breathing problems
* Increased use of rescue inhaler
* Chest pain
* Fast/irregular heartbeat
* Severe dizziness or fainting
* Seizures
* Vision problems
* Signs of infection (fever‚ sore throat that doesn’t go away)
* White patches on tongue/mouth
* Mental/mood changes
* Trouble sleeping
* Increased thirst/urination
* Muscle cramps
* Shaking (tremors)
* Allergic reactions (seek immediate medical attention)⁚
* Rash
* Itching/swelling (especially of the face‚ tongue‚ throat)
* Severe dizziness
* Sudden trouble breathing
Important Usage Instructions⁚
* Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
* Use Dulera twice daily‚ morning and evening‚ as prescribed.
* Do not increase or decrease the dosage without consulting your doctor.
* If you miss a dose‚ take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose‚ skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule.
* Prime the inhaler before first use or if it hasn’t been used for more than 5 days.
* Rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent thrush (a fungal infection).
* Clean the inhaler mouthpiece weekly with a dry tissue.
* Keep track of your medication and refill it before it runs out.
When to Contact Your Doctor⁚
Consult your doctor if you experience⁚
* Worsening asthma symptoms
* New or concerning side effects
* Signs of an allergic reaction
* Any questions or concerns about your medication
Remember‚ this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance regarding Dulera and your asthma management.