Information about Wixela Diskus (Fluticasone/Salmeterol)
Wixela Diskus is a dry powder inhaler (DPI) containing a combination of fluticasone and salmeterol. It is used for the long-term treatment of asthma and COPD. Fluticasone helps reduce inflammation in the airways, while salmeterol helps relax the muscles around the airways, making breathing easier.
Product Highlights
- Asthma in both adults and children aged 4 years and older.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It helps in reducing airway inflammation and improving airflow, thereby controlling symptoms and preventing flare-ups.
Key Ingredient
- Fluticasone Propionate
- Salmeterol Xinafoate
Key Benefits
- Reduces inflammation in the airways, which helps prevent asthma attacks and worsening of COPD symptoms.
- Improves lung function, making it easier to breathe and reducing shortness of breath.
- Prevents symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness associated with asthma and COPD.
- Long-term control, as it works over time to provide sustained relief from symptoms.
- Convenient delivery via the dry powder inhaler, requiring no spacer or additional equipment.
Direction of Use
- Remove the Diskus device from its packaging. Hold it in a level position and slide the lever to prepare a dose.
- Breathe out fully (away from the inhaler), then place the mouthpiece in your mouth and inhale deeply through the mouth. Ensure you take a full, deep breath.
- After inhaling, hold your breath for 10 seconds or as long as comfortable, then exhale slowly.
- Close the device, and if your doctor has prescribed more than one dose, repeat the process.
- Regularly wipe the mouthpiece with a dry tissue to keep it clean. Do not wash or get it wet.
Safety Concerns
- These may include headaches, throat irritation, hoarseness, upper respiratory infections, and increased risk of pneumonia in people with COPD.
- Since fluticasone is a corticosteroid, long-term use may increase the risk of adrenal suppression, osteoporosis, or other systemic effects.
- Wixela Diskus is not meant for immediate relief of sudden breathing problems. It is a maintenance therapy.
- Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) such as salmeterol may raise the risk of asthma-related fatalities. The combination therapy should be prescribed only when other asthma treatments, like inhaled corticosteroids alone, are not enough.
Avoid Wixela Diskus (Fluticasone/Salmeterol) If
- If you have a known allergy to fluticasone, salmeterol, or any ingredients in Wixela Diskus.
- Do not use during an acute asthma or COPD exacerbation. Immediate relief medications should be used instead.
- If you have uncontrolled or worsening asthma symptoms.
- If you have experienced paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of symptoms) after using a similar medication.
- People with severe heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, should avoid using this drug.
- Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus. Always consult with your doctor during pregnancy.
