How does it work?

This preparation contains a combination of beclometasone and salbutamol. Beclometasone belongs to a group of medicines known as corticosteroids. These act within the cells to reduce the release of certain chemicals that are important in the immune system. By decreasing their release in a particular area such as the lungs, inflammation and mucus production is reduced. In conditions such as asthma, the airways tighten due to inflammation and can be blocked by mucus. This makes it difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs. By preventing inflammation and excess mucus formation, beclometasone helps to prevent asthma attacks. It is not, however, used to relieve an asthma attack. Salbutamol binds to beta-receptors in many parts of the body. When salbutamol binds to beta-receptors in the lungs it causes the muscles in the airways to relax, allowing them to open. This is useful in conditions such asthma where it there is difficulty in breathing. By opening the airways, salbutamol reverses these effects and allows the person breathe more easily. This combination of medicines is given by an inhaler, which allows the active ingredients to be delivered directly to the airways, where it is needed. When it is used in this way, a smaller dose is required and the likelihood of side effects elsewhere in the body is reduced. It is used in conditions where the tightening of the airways is reversible, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive airways disease.

What is it used for?

Asthma

Chronic bronchitis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Warning!

Children who are receiving long-term treatment with corticosteroid medicines should have their height regularly monitored, since high doses of corticosteroids taken for long periods of time can impair growth in children.

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

This preparation must be used regularly each day for optimum benefit.

This inhaler should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. Keep your short-acting bronchodilator, eg salbutamol or terbutaline, with you at all times in case you need to relieve shortness of breath.

If the effects of this preparation last for less than 3 hours, seek medical advice. This may indicate that the condition is worsening.

The dosage or frequency of administration of this medicine should only be increased on medical advice.

Inhaling corticosteroids can sometimes cause a fungal infection called thrush in the mouth. To minimise the risk of this, you should rinse your mouth with water after each time you use this inhaler. Consult your doctor if you develop white patches in your mouth or throat, as these are symptoms of thrush and it may need to be treated.

Carefully follow the instructions that are provided with your inhaler. If you are unsure about how to use your inhaler you can talk to your doctor, pharmacist or asthma nurse, all of whom will be able to help you. Make sure you understand how to use your inhalers, as using them incorrectly may mean that you are not inhaling the full dose of medicine into your lungs, and this of course can make them less effective at controlling your asthma.

Use with caution in

Low blood potassium levels (hypokalaemia)

Sudden severe asthma attack

Thyrotoxicosis

Tuberculosis

Not to be used in

Abdominal pain and bleeding during preganancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

The safety of this medicine during breastfeeding has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not stop taking this medication except on your doctor's advice.

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