OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER Inhaler/Dry Powder

What is OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER is a dry powder inhalation medication containing Formoterol fumarate dihydrate, a long-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist (LABA). It is primarily used to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by improving airflow and preventing bronchospasm.

• Generic Name: Formoterol fumarate dihydrate
• Form: Dry powder inhaler (Turbuhaler)
• Strength: 4.5 micrograms per dose
• Pack Size: 60-dose inhaler
• Classification: Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA)

OXIS is typically prescribed as a maintenance treatment in patients requiring long-term bronchodilator therapy. It provides rapid onset of action (within 1–3 minutes) and a long duration of bronchodilation (up to 12 hours), making it suitable for both regular use and as needed in some treatment plans.

How to use OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

Correct technique is essential for effective delivery of the medication to the lungs. OXIS Turbuhaler is breath-activated and does not require coordination between actuation and inhalation.

• Step 1: Unscrew and remove the protective cap from the Turbuhaler.
• Step 2: Hold the inhaler upright and turn the grip as far as it will go in one direction, then back until it clicks.
• Step 3: Breathe out gently away from the device (do not blow into it).
• Step 4: Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, close your lips around it, and inhale forcefully and deeply.
• Step 5: Remove the inhaler and hold your breath for about 10 seconds before exhaling slowly.
• Step 6: Replace the cap securely after use.

It is important to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after inhalation to reduce the risk of throat irritation or oral infection. Always follow the dosing schedule provided by your healthcare provider.

Mode of Action OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

Formoterol, the active ingredient in OXIS, works by selectively stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the bronchial smooth muscle.

• Bronchodilation: Activation of beta-2 receptors leads to relaxation of airway smooth muscles, resulting in widened airways and improved airflow.
• Rapid Onset: Formoterol has a fast onset of action, typically within 1–3 minutes, which is advantageous for quick symptom relief.
• Prolonged Duration: The effect lasts for approximately 12 hours, allowing for twice-daily dosing in maintenance therapy.
• Anti-inflammatory Effect (Indirect): Though not an anti-inflammatory, by reducing bronchospasm and improving ventilation, it indirectly reduces inflammation-triggering episodes.

Formoterol is often used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) as part of an integrated asthma or COPD management plan.

OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER Interactions OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

OXIS may interact with several medications, altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol): May antagonize the effects of Formoterol and worsen bronchospasm.
• Diuretics (especially non-potassium sparing): May increase the risk of hypokalemia, which can be worsened by beta-agonists.
• MAO Inhibitors and Tricyclic Antidepressants: May enhance the cardiovascular effects of Formoterol.
• Other sympathomimetic drugs: Concurrent use may increase the risk of adverse cardiovascular effects (e.g., tachycardia, hypertension).
• Inhaled Corticosteroids: Often used together, but need careful dose management to avoid side effects.

Laboratory monitoring (e.g., potassium levels, ECG) may be advised in patients at risk for drug interactions, especially those on complex regimens.

Dosage of OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

Dosage must be tailored to individual patient needs and adjusted based on response and severity of symptoms. Below are general guidelines:

• Asthma (Adults and Adolescents ≥12 years):
  • 1 inhalation (4.5 mcg) twice daily as maintenance therapy.
  • Additional inhalation as needed for symptom relief, but not exceeding 4 doses/day.
• COPD (Adults):
  • 1 inhalation (4.5 mcg) twice daily.
  • Not recommended for immediate relief of acute symptoms.
• Maximum Daily Dose: Should not exceed 18 mcg (4 inhalations).

OXIS is not a rescue inhaler. A separate short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) should be used for acute exacerbations unless otherwise advised.

Possible side effects of OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

Like all medications, OXIS may cause side effects. Most are mild and self-limiting, but serious adverse effects may occur in rare cases.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Tremor
  • Headache
  • Palpitations
  • Nervousness or restlessness
  • Dry mouth or throat irritation
• Less Common:
  • Insomnia
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
• Serious (Rare):
  • Chest pain
  • Arrhythmias
  • Paradoxical bronchospasm
  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, anaphylaxis)

Consult a healthcare professional immediately if serious or persistent symptoms develop.

OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER Contraindications OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

OXIS should not be used in certain medical conditions or populations due to the risk of severe adverse effects.

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to Formoterol or any component of the formulation.
• Monotherapy in Asthma: LABAs should not be used alone in asthma without inhaled corticosteroids due to increased risk of asthma-related death.
• Severe Cardiac Disorders: Such as arrhythmias, ischemic heart disease, or uncontrolled hypertension.
• Thyrotoxicosis: May increase sensitivity to sympathomimetic effects.
• History of Paradoxical Bronchospasm: Repeated episodes may warrant discontinuation.

Use with caution in patients with diabetes, seizure disorders, or those on medications that can cause hypokalemia.

Storage of OXIS 4.5mcg/Dose TURBUHALER

Proper storage of OXIS Turbuhaler is critical to preserve its effectiveness and safety.

• Temperature: Store below 30°C (86°F).
• Humidity: Keep away from moisture; do not refrigerate or freeze.
• Container: Keep in the original sealed container to protect from air exposure.
• Cap: Always replace the protective cap tightly after each use.
• Expiration: Discard the inhaler when the dose indicator reaches “0” or after the expiration date.
• Disposal: Do not burn or puncture even when empty. Return to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Keep out of reach of children and do not use if the device is damaged or tampered with.