Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Use this medicine only as directed by your doctor. Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. Also, do not stop using this medicine or any asthma medicine without telling your doctor. To do so may increase the chance of breathing problems.

This medicine is used with a special inhaler and usually comes with a patient information leaflet and patient instructions. Read the instructions carefully before using this medicine. If you do not understand the directions or you are not sure how to use the inhaler, ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you what to do. Also, ask your doctor to check how you use the inhaler to make sure you are using it properly.

Use this medicine at the same time each day to prevent COPD attacks.

Do not stop using this medicine or other breathing medicines that your doctor has prescribed for you unless you have discussed this with your doctor.

When you use the inhaler for the first time, or if you have not used it for more than 3 days, it may not deliver the right amount of medicine with the first puff. Before using the inhaler or if you have not used it for more than 21 days, prime it by spraying the medicine towards the ground until a visible cloud appears, then repeat it three times. If you have not used it for more than 3 days, spray the medicine into the air away from the face once.

To use the inhaler:

  • Take the inhaler and cartridge out of the carton before you use it for the first time.
  • Do not use the inhaler for this medicine with any other medicine.
  • Push the narrow end of the cartridge into the inhaler. About 1/8 of an inch will remain visible when the cartridge is correctly inserted.
  • Do not turn the clear base before inserting the cartridge.
  • Do not remove the cartridge once it has been inserted in the inhaler.
  • Flip the green cap until it snaps fully open. Turn the clear base in the direction of the black arrows on the label until it clicks (half a turn).
  • Prime the inhaler before use by releasing a test spray until you see a mist, then repeat 3 more times.
  • To inhale this medicine, breathe out fully, trying to get as much air out of the lungs as possible. Put the mouthpiece fully into your mouth and close your lips around it without covering the air vents. Do not block the mouthpiece with your teeth or tongue.
  • While pressing down firmly and fully on the dose release button of the inhaler, breathe in through your mouth as deeply as you can until you have taken a full deep breath.
  • Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or for as long as you can, then breathe out. Repeat these steps for the next puff.
  • Close the green cap after taking your medicine.
  • Clean the mouthpiece, including the metal part inside the mouthpiece, with a damp cloth or tissue only, at least once a week.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For inhalation dosage form (spray):
    • For maintenance treatment of COPD, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema:
      • Adults—Two puffs once a day. Do not use more than 2 puffs every 24 hours.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Throw away the inhaler 3 months after its first use or when the inhaler is locked.

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Portions of this document last updated: May 01, 2024

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