ASTHALIN Inhaler 200md

INTRODUCTION

ASTHALIN Inhaler contains salbutamol which belongs to a group of medicines called fast-acting bronchodilators or relievers. It is used to treat the symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. Salbutamol is used to relieve symptoms of asthma and other asthma-like conditions such as chest tightness, wheezing and coughing in adults and children. It works quickly and the effects can last several hours. You can take it at any time of day, but only use it when you notice symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or breathlessness.

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor as directed by you. It is usually safe and effective, before using this medicine tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland, a history of heart problems, diabetes or low levels of potassium in your blood to make sure it is safe. Do not use if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to salbutamol or any other ingredients in this medicine. The common side effects are headache, feeling shaky, muscle cramps.

USES OF ASTHALIN

• Treats wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)

HOW ASTHALIN WORKS

ASTHALIN works by relaxing the muscles of the airways into the lungs, which makes it easier to breathe.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has directed you. Take this medicine at any time of day. Follow the directions on the label before use. Do not stop using this medicine unless your doctor tells you to do so.

SIDE EFFECTS OF ASTHALIN

SERIOUS

• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing, itchy rash
• Feeling faint and lightheaded
• Palpitations (fast heartbeat)

COMMON

• Headache
• Feeling shaky
• Muscle cramps

RARE

• Low level of potassium in your blood
• Increased blood flow to your extremities (peripheral dilatation)
• Changes in sleep patterns and changes in behaviour, such as restlessness and excitability
• Muscle tension

HOW TO MANAGE SIDE EFFECTS

Headache:

Rest and drink plenty of fluids. Ask your doctor to recommend a painkiller.

Muscle cramps:

Stretch the muscle and gently rub it to relax. Use a warm cloth or heating pad on tense or tight muscles.

WARNING & PRECAUTIONS

PREGNANCY

ASTHALIN should be used with caution in pregnant women. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

BREASTFEEDING

ASTHALIN should be used with caution in breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

DRIVING AND USING MACHINES

ASTHALIN is not likely to affect you being able to drive or use any tools or machines.

ALLERGY

Do not use if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to salbutamol or any other ingredients in this medicine.

HEART DISEASE

ASTHALIN should be used with caution in patients suffering from active heart diseases. Consult your doctor for advice.

OTHERS

Tell your doctor if you have or had a condition such as,

• Threatened abortion (potential miscarriage)
• An overactive thyroid gland (thyrotoxicosis)
• Diabetes

INTERACTIONS

Tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription or the following:

• Beta-blockers for your blood pressure e.g. propranolol
• Digoxin (used for heart problems)
• Theophylline, aminophylline (used for asthma)

MORE INFORMATION

Store below 20-25°C and keep out of reach of children.

FAQ’s ABOUT ASTHALIN

Q: What is ASTHALIN used for?
A: It is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators.

Q: Being a diabetic, what should I remember while using ASTHALIN?
A: It may cause blood sugar levels to rise. Therefore, your doctor may adjust your dose of insulin or antidiabetic medicines. Consult your doctor if you experience a sudden rise in blood sugar levels

Q: How fast does ASTHALIN work
A: It helps to relieve symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as coughing, wheezing and feeling breathless. It starts to work within a few minutes and the effect will last between 3-5 hours.