Question 1

How long does it take for Breo Ellipta to work?

Accepted Answer

Breo starts to act as soon as you inhale it, but the noticeable improvement in breathing may not be immediate because it is designed for long-term management of the conditions. It gradually enhances lung function and helps to prevent future flare-ups of COPD and asthma attacks. Most users begin to experience easier breathing approximately 15 minutes after taking a dose of Breo, indicating the onset of its fast-acting benefits.

Question 2

Is Breo hard on the heart?

Accepted Answer

Breo Ellipta, which contains fluticasone and vilanterol, has the potential to affect the heart’s rhythm, a condition known as QT prolongation. Although it is uncommon, QT prolongation can lead to serious, and sometimes even fatal, fast or irregular heartbeats. Other symptoms associated with this condition include severe dizziness and fainting, which require immediate medical attention. It is important to be aware of these risks and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure safe use of this medication.

Question 3

Does Breo have albuterol in it?

Accepted Answer

No, Breo Ellipta does not contain albuterol. Both Breo Ellipta and albuterol sulfate are used to treat asthma and COPD, but they contain different active ingredients. Albuterol sulfate is a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) used primarily for quick relief of asthma symptoms or during a COPD flare-up, whereas Breo is used for long-term management of these conditions and not for immediate symptom relief.

Question 4

How long can you stay on Breo?

Accepted Answer

Breo Ellipta is intended for long-term management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It acts primarily as a preventative medication, meaning it helps to control and prevent symptoms as long as you continue to use it regularly. Unless advised by your doctor to discontinue its use, it’s important to keep taking Breo Ellipta to prevent the return of symptoms. Your healthcare provider will monitor your condition and make adjustments to your treatment as necessary.

Question 5

Does Breo cause weight gain?

Accepted Answer

Weight gain is a potential, though rare, side effect of taking Breo Ellipta, primarily due to its content of fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Fluticasone can cause fluctuations in cortisol levels, leading to hypercorticism (high cortisol levels) and potentially adrenal suppression (low cortisol levels). These hormonal changes can sometimes result in weight gain, among other side effects.

Question 6

What happens if you don’t rinse your mouth after an inhaler?

Accepted Answer

Rinse your mouth after using a steroid inhaler, such as Breo Ellipta, is crucial. Failing to do so can leave residual medication in your mouth and throat, which isn’t absorbed by your lungs and can lead to side effects. One common issue is the development of oral thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth. Rinsing helps to clear away any leftover medicine, reducing the risk of this and other potential side effects.