Airflusal forspiro

Poland
Brand name Airflusal forspiro
Form powder for inhalation, divided
Active substance / Dosage
Prescription type Prescription only
ATC code
Registration number 100520968
Manufacturer Sandoz d.d.
Airflusal forspiro powder for inhalation, divided

Patient Information Leaflet

Warning! Keep this leaflet. The information on the immediate packaging is in a foreign language.
AirFluSal Forspiro
(50 micrograms + 250 micrograms)/dose, inhalation powder, divided
Salmeterolum + Fluticasoni propionas
Please read the entire leaflet before using this medicine, as it contains important information for the patient.

  • Keep this leaflet for future reference.
  • If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
  • This medicine has been prescribed for a specific individual. Do not share it with others. This medicine may harm others, even if their symptoms are similar.
  • If you experience any adverse reactions, including any not listed in this leaflet, inform your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. See section 4.

Table of contents:

  1. What AirFluSal Forspiro is and what it is used for
  2. What you need to know before using AirFluSal Forspiro
  3. How to use AirFluSal Forspiro
  4. Possible side effects
  5. How to store AirFluSal Forspiro
  6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. What AirFluSal Forspiro is and what it is used for

AirFluSal Forspiro is used in the treatment of bronchial asthma.
The medicine contains two active substances:

  • salmeterol: a long-acting bronchodilator
  • fluticasone: a corticosteroid that reduces swelling and inflammation in the lungs.

2. Important information before using AirFluSal Forspiro

When not to use AirFluSal Forspiro

  • if the patient is allergic to salmeterol, fluticasone, or to any of the excipients of the medicine (listed in section 6).

Warnings and precautions
Before using AirFluSal Forspiro, discuss with a doctor or pharmacist if the patient has:

  • heart disease, including irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • hyperthyroidism
  • high blood pressure
  • diabetes (AirFluSal Forspiro may increase blood sugar levels)
  • low blood potassium levels
  • tuberculosis (current or past) or other lung infections.

If the patient develops blurred vision or other visual disturbances, inform the doctor.
AirFluSal Forspiro helps prevent breathlessness and wheezing. It is important to remember that the medicine does not work when breathlessness or wheezing has already started.
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In case of a breathlessness attack, a fast-acting medicine (such as salbutamol) must be used to quickly dilate the airways.
If asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties worsen, contact a doctor immediately. This may include:

  • wheezing
  • more frequent chest tightness
  • increased need for a fast-acting bronchodilator compared to usual.

In such cases, continue using AirFluSal Forspiro but do not increase the number of inhalations, as this may worsen the patient's condition, potentially leading to severe illness. Contact a doctor, as additional treatment may be necessary.
Children and adolescents
AirFluSal Forspiro must not be used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
AirFluSal Forspiro and other medicines
Tell the doctor or pharmacist about all medicines the patient is currently taking or has recently taken, as well as any medicines planned for use, including those available without a prescription.
AirFluSal Forspiro and the following medicines may interact with each other:

  • medicines used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions or other diseases containing an active substance ending in "olol" (beta-blockers), such as atenolol, propranolol and sotalol
  • antiviral medicines, including some used to treat HIV infection, such as ritonavir or cobicistat. The doctor may wish to closely monitor the patient taking these medicines
  • medicines used to treat infections, such as ketoconazole, itraconazole and erythromycin
  • corticosteroids administered orally or by injection: medicines used to treat inflammation or prevent transplant rejection
  • diuretics used in the treatment of high blood pressure
  • other bronchodilators (such as salbutamol)
  • medicines containing xanthine derivatives (often used in the treatment of asthma).

Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility
If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding, suspects she may be pregnant, or is planning to have a baby, she should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine. The doctor will assess whether use of AirFluSal Forspiro during pregnancy is appropriate.
Driving and operating machinery
It is unlikely that AirFluSal Forspiro will affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
AirFluSal Forspiro contains lactose monohydrate
If the patient has previously been diagnosed with intolerance to certain sugars, consult a doctor before using this medicine.
The amount of lactose contained in the medicine usually does not cause problems in individuals with lactose intolerance.

3. How to use AirFluSal Forspiro

This medicine should always be used exactly as directed by your doctor. If in doubt, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Asthma
The recommended dose for adults is:
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one inhalation twice daily.
Your doctor will regularly monitor you for asthma symptoms.
If your asthma symptoms are well controlled with AirFluSal Forspiro taken twice daily, your doctor may reduce the dose to once daily:

  • once in the evening, if symptoms occur at night
  • once in the morning, if symptoms occur during the day.

Instructions for use
AirFluSal Forspiro should be used daily as directed by your doctor, preferably just before a meal, in the morning and/or evening.
After inhalation, rinse your mouth with water.
Incorrect or inconsistent use of AirFluSal Forspiro may worsen respiratory symptoms. To achieve optimal effectiveness, the medicine must be used every day, even if you do not have symptoms.
Instructions for use
Your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist should demonstrate how to use the inhaler and should regularly check that you are using it correctly.
The inhaler contains 60 doses of powder for inhalation in a coiled foil strip (blister strip). It is equipped with a dose counter indicating the number of doses remaining (from 60 to 0). Numbers indicating the last 10 doses are displayed on a red background.
The inhaler is not refillable – once empty, it must be replaced with a new device.

Medical diagram of a device labeled with parts: protective cap, white lever, side chamber, dose counter, and air inlets on the sides of the mouthpiece

Before using the inhaler

  • Open the transparent side chamber cover.
  • Carefully tear off the entire length of the strip using the serrated edge (as shown in the illustration). Do not pull or jerk the strip.

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Hands holding a medical device, one hand sliding a component with black bands downward in the direction indicated by a black arrow showing movement direction
  • Close the chamber cover and dispose of the used foil strip.

Note:
As the inhaler is used, the side chamber gradually fills with used foil strips. Foil strips with black lines do not contain medicine. At the end, numbered segments of the strip will appear. Do not allow more than 2 strips to accumulate in the side chamber, as this may block the inhaler. Gently tear off the foil strip (as shown above) and dispose of it safely.
Using the inhaler
Hold the inhaler in your hands as shown in the illustrations.
1. Opening

Hands holding an injector, with a black arrow indicating rotational motion of the device to prepare it for medication administration
  • Uncover the mouthpiece by pulling down the protective cap.
  • Check the dose counter window to see how many doses remain.

2. Preparing the dose

A hand holding a white injector, with a black arrow above the device indicating clockwise rotational movement
  • Lift the edge of the white lever. Ensure the side chamber is closed. Note: The white lever should only be used when you are ready to take your dose. Unnecessary use will result in loss of doses.

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Hands holding a medical device, an arrow indicating opening movement to the right, labeled 'Open', with the word 'Click' at the top of the illustration
  • Opening: Pull the white lever fully up (you will hear a click), which will load the dose and display its number in the dose counter.
Hands holding a white medical device, screwing the upper part closed with a black arrow and labels 'Close' and 'Click' indicating the audible sound
  • Closing: Close the white lever completely until you hear a click. The inhaler is now ready for immediate use.

3. Inhaling the dose

  • Breathe out as deeply as possible away from the mouthpiece. Never breathe out directly into the inhaler, as this may alter the dose of medicine.
  • Hold the inhaler with the protective cap pointing downwards.
  • Close your lips tightly around the mouthpiece.
  • Breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth (not through your nose).
Side view of a person's face holding an inhaler to their mouth, a black arrow pointing to the outlet with the warning 'Do not block air inlets'
  • Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for 5–10 seconds, or as long as possible without discomfort.
  • After this time, breathe out slowly, not towards the inhaler.
  • Close the protective cap over the mouthpiece.
  • Rinse your mouth with water (spit the water out), to help prevent the development of oral fungal infection and hoarseness.

Cleaning

  • If necessary, wipe the outer part of the mouthpiece with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Do not disassemble the inhaler for cleaning or for any other purpose!
  • Do not clean any parts of the inhaler with water or wet wipes, as moisture may alter the dose of medicine!

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  • Never insert needles or other sharp instruments into the mouthpiece or any other part of the inhaler, as this may damage the device!

Use of more than the recommended dose of AirFluSal Forspiro
Contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Symptoms of overdose include:

  • dizziness
  • headache
  • rapid heartbeat
  • muscle weakness
  • joint pain
  • tremor

If higher doses are used for a prolonged period, consult your doctor or pharmacist, as prolonged use of higher doses of AirFluSal Forspiro may reduce the adrenal glands' production of steroid hormones.
It is important to use the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase or decrease the dose without your doctor’s approval.
Missing a dose of AirFluSal Forspiro
Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Take the next dose at the usual time.
Stopping AirFluSal Forspiro treatment
Do not stop or suddenly reduce the dose of AirFluSal Forspiro without your doctor’s approval, as this may worsen breathing problems and very rarely cause adverse effects such as:

  • abdominal pain
  • fatigue and loss of appetite, nausea
  • vomiting and diarrhoea
  • weight loss
  • headache or drowsiness
  • low blood sugar levels
  • low blood pressure and seizures.

Similar adverse effects may also very rarely occur during infections or in situations of severe stress (e.g. due to fever, injury, serious accident, or surgical procedure). To prevent these symptoms, your doctor may prescribe additional corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone).
If you have any further questions about the use of this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

4. Possible adverse reactions

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause adverse reactions, although not everyone experiences them.
Allergic reactions: the patient may experience sudden breathing difficulties immediately after
using AirFluSal Forspiro. Wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath may occur, as well as itching, rash (urticaria) and swelling (usually of the face, lips, tongue or throat), along with a sensation of very rapid heartbeat or fainting and dizziness (which may lead to falling or loss of consciousness). If any of these symptoms occur, or if they occur suddenly after using AirFluSal Forspiro, contact a doctor immediately. Allergic reactions to AirFluSal Forspiro occur uncommonly (may occur in fewer than 1 in 100 people).
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Other possible adverse reactions:
Very common (may occur in more than 1 in 10 people)

  • Headache (usually resolves during treatment)
  • Increased incidence of colds in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Common (may occur in fewer than 1 in 10 people)

  • Oral and pharyngeal candidiasis (painful creamy-yellow lesions), tongue pain, hoarseness and throat irritation. Rinsing the mouth with water and immediately spitting it out and/or brushing teeth immediately after each inhalation may be helpful. The doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication to treat candidiasis.
  • Joint pain, joint swelling and muscle pain
  • Muscle cramps.

In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the following adverse reactions have been reported:

  • Pneumonia (lung infection). Inform the doctor if any of the following symptoms occur during treatment with AirFluSal Forspiro; these may be signs of lung infection:
  • Increased mucus production
  • Change in mucus color
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Worsening cough
  • Increased shortness of breath
  • Bruising and traumatic fractures
  • Sinusitis
  • Low blood potassium levels (which may cause irregular heartbeat, weakness and/or muscle cramps).

Uncommon (may occur in fewer than 1 in 100 people)

  • Very rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Tremor and sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations). These are usually benign symptoms that resolve during treatment.
  • Feeling of sadness (mainly in children)
  • Increased blood glucose levels. In patients with diabetes, more frequent monitoring of blood glucose levels may be necessary, and adjustment of antidiabetic medication may be required.
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Chest pain
  • Lens opacity (cataract)
  • Allergic rash.

Rare (may occur in fewer than 1 in 1000 people)

  • Breathing difficulties or wheezing that worsens immediately after using AirFluSal Forspiro. Discontinue use of AirFluSal Forspiro and contact a doctor immediately. To help ease breathing, use a fast-acting bronchodilator by inhalation.
  • Impaired production of certain hormones, especially if the medicine is used at high doses for a prolonged period. Symptoms include:
  • Slowed growth in children and adolescents
  • Osteoporosis (thinning of the bones)
  • Increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma)

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  • Weight gain
  • Rounded ("moon-shaped") face (Cushing's syndrome). The doctor will regularly check whether any of these adverse reactions occur and ensure that the patient is using the lowest possible effective dose.
  • Behavioral changes such as unusual excitability and irritability. These symptoms occur mainly in children.
  • Irregular heartbeat or extra heartbeats. Inform the doctor, but do not stop using AirFluSal Forspiro without medical advice.
  • Fungal infection of the esophagus, which may cause difficulty swallowing.

Frequency not known, but may also occur:

  • Depression or aggression. These symptoms occur mainly in children.
  • Blurred vision.

Reporting of adverse reactions
If any adverse reactions occur, including any not listed in this leaflet, inform a doctor, pharmacist or nurse. Adverse reactions can be reported directly to the Department of Monitoring of Adverse Drug Reactions, Office for Registration of Medicinal Products, Medical Devices and Biocidal Products: Al. Jerozolimskie 181C, 02-222 Warsaw, tel.: +48 22 49 21 301, fax: +48 22 49 21 309, website: https://smz.ezdrowie.gov.pl
Reporting adverse reactions helps provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

5. How to store AirFluSal Forspiro

Keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children.
Store below 25°C.
Do not use AirFluSal Forspiro after the expiry date stated on the packaging.
The expiry date refers to the last day of the stated month.
Medicines must not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. Following this advice helps protect the environment.

6. Contents of the pack and other information

What AirFluSal Forspiro contains

  • The active substances are salmeterol and fluticasone propionate. Each metered dose contains 50 micrograms of salmeterol (as salmeterol xinafoate) and 250 micrograms of fluticasone propionate. This corresponds to the delivered dose containing 45 micrograms of salmeterol (as salmeterol xinafoate) and 233 micrograms of fluticasone propionate.
  • The other ingredient is lactose monohydrate.

What AirFluSal Forspiro looks like and contents of the pack
An inhaler with a foil blister containing 60 doses of inhalation powder.
Pack sizes: 1 or 2 inhalers containing 60 doses each.
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For further information, please contact the responsible party or parallel importer.
Responsible entity in Latvia, country of export:
Sandoz d.d., Verovškova 57, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Manufacturer:
Aeropharm GmbH, Francois-Mitterrand-Allee 1, 07407 Rudolstadt, Germany
Parallel importer:
Delfarma Sp. z o.o., ul. Św. Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus 111, 91-222 Łódź
Repackaged in:
Delfarma Sp. z o.o., ul. Św. Teresy od Dzieciątka Jezus 111, 91-222 Łódź
Marketing authorisation number in Latvia, country of export: 14-0224
Parallel import authorisation number: 224/25
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