Foracort 0.5mg Respules

Foracort 0.5mg Respules contains Formoterol (20mcg) and Budesonide (0.5mg), a combination medication used for the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Benefits

This medicine helps keep the airways in your lungs open and reduces inflammation, making breathing easier. It effectively relieves symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, contributing to improved daily activities. Foracort 0.5mg Respules is intended for preventive, long-term treatment and should not be used for sudden, acute breathing problems.

Uses and Indications

• Regular treatment of asthma, particularly where a combination of a long-acting beta2-agonist and an inhaled corticosteroid is deemed appropriate.
• Long-term management of moderate-to-severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) with frequent symptoms and a history of repeated exacerbations.

The Foracort 0.5mg Respules (2ml Each) contains:

• Formoterol Fumarate IP 20 mcg (as Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate IP)
• Budesonide IP 0.5 mg
• Supplied as a sterile suspension for nebulisation in low-density polyethylene unit-dose vials.

Dosage and Administration

1. Use Foracort 0.5mg Respules strictly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not alter your dose or frequency of use without medical consultation.
2. Open the protective foil pouch immediately before administration and use the entire contents of the respule at once.
3. Administer the medication via a standard jet nebuliser connected to an air compressor, using either a facemask or mouthpiece.
4. After each inhalation, rinse your mouth and gargle with water without swallowing to help minimise the risk of fungal infection in the mouth or throat.

Storage and Disposal

• Store the respules in their protective foil pouch under refrigeration at 2°–8°C. Do not freeze.
• Protect the medication from light and heat.
• Once the foil pouch is opened, the respules inside can be stored at room temperature below 25°C for up to 4 weeks. Discard any respules kept at room temperature for longer than 4 weeks.
• Keep Foracort 0.5mg Respules out of the reach of children and pets.
• Discard any partially used respule contents immediately after use.

Precautions and Safety

• Foracort 0.5mg Respules is not intended for the relief of sudden breathing problems or acute asthma/COPD attacks. Always use a separate rescue inhaler for such instances.
• Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, including heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures, thyroid disorders, diabetes, liver impairment, osteoporosis, immune system issues, or eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts.
• Exercise caution if you have lung tuberculosis, or any fungal or viral infections.
• Do not discontinue this medicine abruptly; the dosage should be tapered gradually under the guidance of a medical professional.
• Avoid consuming alcohol while undergoing treatment with this medication.
• This medicine is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
• Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or are breastfeeding.

Side Effects and Risks

• Common side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, dizziness, and respiratory tract infection.
• Oral candidiasis (fungal infection in the mouth or throat), sore throat, cough, and hoarse voice are also possible.
• Rarer but more serious side effects can include paradoxical bronchospasm, decreases in blood potassium levels, increases in blood sugar levels, adrenal insufficiency, lower bone mineral density, and eye problems such as glaucoma and cataracts.
• If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek immediate medical advice.

Disclaimer

Use this medicine only under the prescription and guidance of a qualified doctor or pharmacist.