Indications
Vilanterol is a long-acting bronchodilator found only in combination inhalers: with Fluticasone Furoate (a steroid), with Umeclidinium (another long-acting bronchodilator), or with both. These are used as daily maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and, in the combination with a steroid, for asthma. It is not for relief of a sudden attack.
How It Works
It relaxes the muscles around the airways so they stay open for about 24 hours, making breathing easier. In asthma it must always be used together with an inhaled steroid, which treats the swelling in the airways.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: one inhalation once a day, at the same time each day. The strength of the combination is chosen by the doctor; use it as prescribed. Use only with the device it is made for; capsules are for inhaling, not for swallowing. Do not use it more than once a day, and keep using it even when you feel well. Always carry a quick-relief inhaler such as Salbutamol for sudden breathlessness. Rinse your mouth with water and spit after using a combination that contains a steroid.
Interactions
Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Clarithromycin, Ritonavir and similar medicines can raise its level. Beta blockers (such as Propranolol, including eye drops like Timolol) can block its effect and may tighten the airways. Water tablets (diuretics) and steroid tablets can lower potassium further. Do not use it with another long-acting bronchodilator of the same type (such as Salmeterol or Formoterol).
Contraindications
- Allergy to vilanterol or any ingredient.
- Severe milk protein allergy (the powder contains lactose).
- Asthma treated without an inhaled steroid.
Side Effects
Common: headache, sore throat, runny nose, cough and joint or back pain. With steroid combinations: hoarse voice, mouth thrush and, in COPD, a higher chance of pneumonia. Get urgent medical help if breathing becomes suddenly worse or wheezy right after using the inhaler, or for chest pain, a fast or irregular heartbeat, fever with cough and breathlessness, or swelling of the face or throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Use in pregnancy or breastfeeding only if the doctor feels the benefit outweighs the risk. Poorly controlled asthma or COPD is itself harmful in pregnancy, so do not stop treatment without advice.
Precautions and Warnings
Use with care if you have heart disease, an irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, low potassium or epilepsy. See your doctor if you need your reliever more often than usual, as this means your condition is getting worse.
Overdose
Too much can cause a fast heartbeat, shaking, headache, low potassium and high blood sugar. Seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Long-acting beta2 agonist (LABA) bronchodilator.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place. Keep capsules in their blister until just before use. Keep away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.