ForAir 500 mcg Respicap

ForAir 500 mcg Respicap is a prescription combination inhalation capsule used to help control and prevent asthma symptoms. Each ForAir 500 mcg Respicap capsule contains salmeterol and fluticasone propionate for inhalation in a 500 mcg strength. It combines a long-acting bronchodilator and an inhaled corticosteroid, so it is used as maintenance therapy rather than a quick-relief rescue medicine.

How it works: Salmeterol relaxes the muscles around the airways so they stay open longer, making breathing easier over time. Fluticasone propionate reduces airway inflammation and swelling, and the capsule is inhaled so the medicine goes directly into the lungs where it is needed.

ForAir 500 mcg Respicap is a higher-strength capsule intended for patients whose asthma needs this level of controller treatment after a doctor’s assessment. Because it delivers a stronger maintenance dose in a capsule form, it may be chosen when lower-dose therapy has not been enough to keep symptoms controlled. It is not meant for sudden breathing problems and does not work the same way as a rescue inhaler.

• Maintenance treatment of asthma
• Prevention of asthma symptoms
• Control of wheezing and chest tightness
• Reduction of nighttime asthma symptoms
• Help lowering flare-up frequency

• Use the capsule only with the inhalation device it was prescribed for; do not swallow the capsule.
• Open the strip only when you are ready to take a dose, then place one capsule in the device and inhale the powder as directed.
• Do not chew, crush, or split the capsule.
• Use it regularly at the same times each day if your doctor prescribed scheduled use.
• Rinse your mouth with water and spit after inhaling to lower the chance of thrush.
• Do not use it for sudden shortness of breath; keep your rescue inhaler available for attacks.

This product provides 500 mcg per capsule, which is a higher-strength maintenance dose. The exact frequency depends on your doctor’s asthma plan; many controller inhaler regimens are taken once or twice daily, and your prescriber will decide the schedule that is right for you. Do not exceed the daily amount your doctor gives you, because taking more can raise the risk of side effects without giving quick relief.

Do not change your dose or stop the medicine without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Salmeterol + Fluticasone Propionate may include:

• Throat irritation
• Hoarseness
• Oral thrush (mouth fungal infection)
• Cough after inhalation
• Headache
• Tremor or shakiness
• Fast heartbeat or palpitations, which may be more noticeable with a higher-strength dose

• Do not use ForAir 500 mcg Respicap for an acute asthma attack; it is not a rescue medicine.
• This higher-strength capsule should be used only if a clinician has decided you need this dose.
• Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, diabetes, thyroid disease, seizures, or glaucoma.
• Report any signs of oral thrush, since inhaled steroids can increase this risk.
• Use caution with driving or activities if you feel shaky, dizzy, or your heart races after inhaling.
• Do not stop the medicine suddenly without medical advice, because asthma symptoms can worsen.
• Tell your prescriber about any history of severe milk protein allergy if the inhaler device or capsule contents are relevant to that product line.

• Other LABA medicines, which can increase the risk of side effects
• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, or cobicistat
• Certain heart medicines, including some beta-blockers, which may reduce benefit or worsen breathing
• Diuretics, which can increase the risk of low potassium
• Other corticosteroids, which may add to steroid effects

Store ForAir 500 mcg Respicap in its original strip/box at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat, and keep the capsules in the blister until you are ready to use them.