Dulera
Generic Name: Mometasone
What is Dulera?
Dulera combines two medications: an inhaled corticosteroid, mometasone furoate, and a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA), formoterol.Dulera is used to control symptoms of asthma and prevent symptoms such as wheezing in people ≥12 years old.
What is the most important information I should know about Dulera?
Dulera can cause serious side effects. People with asthma who take LABA medicines such as formoterol have an increased risk of death from asthma problems. Call your doctor if breathing problems worsen over time while using Dulera. You may need different treatment. Seek emergency medical care if breathing problems worsen quickly, and you use your rescue inhaler medicine, but it does not relieve your breathing problems.Children and adolescents who take LABA medicines may have an increased risk of being hospitalized for asthma problems.
Dulera should not be used as a rescue inhaler. Dulera does not relieve sudden asthma symptoms. Always have a rescue inhaler with you to treat sudden symptoms.
Call your healthcare provider if: you need to use four or more inhalations of your rescue inhaler for 2 or more days in a row; you use one whole canister of your rescue inhaler in an 8-week time frame; or you have asthma and your symptoms do not improve after using Dulera regularly for 1-2 weeks.
Who should not take Dulera?
Do not use Dulera to treat sudden severe symptoms of asthma or if you are allergic to mometasone furoate, formoterol fumarate dihydrate, or any of the ingredients in Dulera.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Dulera?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Dulera. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures, thyroid problems, diabetes, liver problems, osteoporosis (thin, weak bones), an immune system problem, eye problems (such as increased pressure in the eye or cataracts), are allergic to any medicines, are exposed to chickenpox or measles, have any other medical problems, are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults and children ≥12 years: The recommended dose of Dulera is two inhalations by mouth twice daily every day (morning and evening). The maximum daily recommended dose is two inhalations of Dulera 200 mcg (micrograms)/5 mcg twice daily. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate dosage for you.
How should I take Dulera?
Use Dulera exactly as prescribed. Do not use Dulera more often than prescribed. If you take more Dulera than your doctor has prescribed, get medical help right away if you have any unusual symptoms, such as problems breathing, palpitations, chest pain, increased heart rate, nervousness, or shakiness.Dulera should be taken every day as two puffs in the morning and two puffs in the evening. Shake well prior to each inhalation. Rinse your mouth with water after each dose (two puffs) of Dulera. This will help to lessen the chance of getting an infection (thrush) in the mouth and throat.
What should I avoid while taking Dulera?
While you are using Dulera two times each day, do not use other medicines that contain a LABA for any reason. Ask your doctor if any of your other medicines are LABA medicines.Do not change or stop using Dulera or other asthma medicines used to control or treat your breathing problems unless told to do so by your doctor.
Do not spray Dulera in your eyes. If you accidentally get Dulera in your eyes, rinse your eyes with water and if redness or irritation continues, call your doctor.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Dulera?
If Dulera is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Dulera with the following: atazanavir, certain high blood pressure medications, medicines containing beta2-agonists, clarithromycin, corticosteroids, ketoconazole, indinavir, itraconazole, antidepressant medications known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants, nefazodone, nelfinavir, certain diuretics (water pills), ritonavir, saquinavir, or telithromycin.What are the possible side effects of Dulera?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: nasal, throat, and sinus irritation; headache
Can I receive Dulera if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Dulera during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Dulera?
If you miss a dose of Dulera, skip the dose you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take Dulera more often or use more puffs than you have been prescribed.How should I store Dulera?
Store at room temperature. The contents of the Dulera canister are under pressure. Do not use or store near heat or an open flame.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
