Breo Ellipta (Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol) is prescribed to prevent and decrease asthma and ongoing lung disease symptoms. These symptoms include trouble breathing and wheezing. This inhaler is a combination of a corticosteroid (fluticasone) and a long-acting beta-agonist (vilanterol) that work together to make breathing easier. The fluticasone reduces the swelling of the airways in the lungs while vilanterol opens up the airways. The benefit of using a combination inhaler like this one is that it does not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems as vilanterol can when used independently. In terms of asthma treatment, this drug should be used when breathing problems are not controlled with the use of a single asthma-control medication. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. Keep in mind that Breo Ellipta is not a quick-relief inhaler and cannot be used to relieve asthma attacks.

Always use Breo Ellipta as directed by one’s physician. It’s important to learn how to properly use an inhaler before using this medication. Orally inhale this medication usually once daily. Do not take more than 1 inhalation daily. If you open and close the cover without inhaling, the dose will be lost, and you should load a new dose and inhale it. If you have been using a quick-relief inhaler regularly i.e. 4 times a day, you must stop this schedule and resort to using it for sudden shortness of breath. Contact your doctor for details and any questions you may have.If you are using other inhalers, wait at least 1 minute between the use of each and use Breo Ellipta last. After each use, gargle and rinse your mouth with water to prevent dry mouth or other discomforts. Do not use other long-acting beta-agonists with this medication. Also, if you take oral corticosteroids regularly, don’t stop them and talk to your doctor about how you should take them. Use this inhaler regularly to see optimal results. Take only the prescribed amount, no more and no less, and do not halt this medication without doctor approval. It may take several weeks before you see the full effects of this drug. Let your doctor know if your condition is unaffected or if it worsens.

Prior to using the medication, consult with your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to it or have any other allergies
• Have a medical history of high blood pressure, bone loss, depression, eye or heart problems, or any recent infections, etc.
• Have been exposed to an infection
• Are elderly since you may be more sensitive to the side effects 
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding

After taking this medication:

• If it stops working as well or you find yourself using your quick-relief inhaler more than usual such as 4 or more puffs in a day, get medical help immediately. It may be a sign of worsening asthma or even COPD.
• Get immediate medical help if you experience any symptoms of QT prolongation such as fast/irregular heartbeat and severe dizziness
• Your potassium or magnesium levels may lower due to certain medications and conditions. Consult with your doctor about the safest way to take Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol).

If your condition doesn’t improve or if it worsens, let your physician know immediately.

Side effects include but are not limited to:

• Headache runny nose, coughing, and dry irritated throat as you adjust to the drug;

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of these rarer symptoms:

• Severe dizziness, fainting, or chest pain;
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• White patches in mouth or on the tongue,
• Puffy face, unexplained/sudden weight gain;
• Thinning skin, weakness, easy bruising/bleeding;
• Bone pain, muscle cramps;
• Sudden mood changes, menstrual period changes
• An extreme allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, tongue or throat

If any of these effects persist or worsen immediately tell your doctor or pharmacist. If you experience sudden worsening of breathing problems, use your quick-relief inhaler and seek medical attention right away.