- Used to prevent asthma symptoms
- Used to treat breathing problems in adults and in children over 12
Dulera is the brand name for the generic drug Formoterol/Mometasone which is manufactured by Merck. It is a metered dose inhaler which is pressurized and it is available in 100 mcg and 200 mcg variants with 5 mcg being a single dosage strength.
Indications
Dulera is used to treat breathing difficulties and is used to prevent an asthma attack from happening. It is not to be used once the bronchospasm attack of asthma sets in. It is used to treat adults as well as children who are over twelve years old.
Action
This drug clears and opens out the airways so the person can breathe more easily. Formoterol opens out the airways as it is a bronchodilator and Mometasone, which is a steroid, clears the airways of inflammation. It does this by preventing the release of certain substances in the body that cause the inflammation. This dual drug formulation is prescribed for patients who haven’t had too much relief from single drug formulations. This is a fairly new drug and when a beta-agonist is combined with an inhaled steroid, the results seem to be much more effective.
Side Effects
While most people do not suffer from ant reactions to this combined drug, there are a few who will experience side effects, most of them mild, which tend to disappear in a couple of weeks once the person’s system has got used to the medication. Some of these side effects are insomnia and irritability, sore or hoarse throat, stomach upsets, stuffy nose or dry mouth. However, a few people could experience very severe side effects and these would need medical attention immediately. There could be white patches on the throat, tongue or mouth, blurred vision, urination problems, mood swings, depression, tremors and muscular cramps or weakness, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, seizures, fainting, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing. Medical attention must be sought at once as soon as any side effect makes its presence felt.
Caution
You doctor should be told about your medical history and any ailment that you are suffering from. If you are on medication for any condition, he will need to know what you are taking and how long you have been on it. Any vitamins and supplements will also have to be listed, including those that are herbal or natural. If there are any drugs you are allergic to, tell your doctor and also inform him if there is a history of drugs, alcohol or tobacco. Your doctor will need to be told if you have diabetes, thyroid problems, high blood pressure, cardiac problems, herpes or any eye infections, liver or kidney ailments, osteoporosis, glaucoma or epilepsy.
Contraindications
This drug should not be used once a full blown asthma attack sets in. It is best avoided by women who are pregnant or nursing because there isn’t enough evidence that it is totally safe for babies. Any change in dosages is contraindicated except with the doctor’s permission. Make sure to inform your doctor if you have a fungal infection. It is contraindicated in children who are under twelve years of age.