Dulera (Mometasone/Formoterol) for COPD

Overview
Dulera is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010 for maintenance treatment of asthma. Dulera helps prevent bronchospasm in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Dulera is not indicated for rescue usage during acute bronchospasms.

Dulera is a combination drug containing both Mometasone and Formoterol. Mometasone is a glucocorticoid steroid, a drug that suppresses the immune system. Mometasone is believed to work by reducing inflammation in the lungs, lowering the risk of bronchospasm. Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator, a drug that dilates the bronchi and bronchioles in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. Formoterol is believed to work by relaxing smooth muscles in the airways.

How do I take it?
Dulera is inhaled orally twice a day. Dulera should be taken at the same times each day, 12 hours apart. For instance, Dulera may be taken morning and evening.

Prime a new Dulera inhaler by releasing four sprays away from your face, shaking the inhaler between each spray. Also prime the Dulera inhaler when it has not been used in more than five
days.

Rinse your mouth and throat with water after taking a dose of Dulera in order to help prevent infections. Do not swallow the water.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Dulera.

Side effects
The two drugs that comprise Dulera can cause various side effects. Among these, the most serious is an increase in the risk of asthma-related death that has been associated with Formoterol. Mometasone can raise your risk for contracting pneumonia and other infections.

Common side effects of Formoterol include hoarse, dry or irritated throat, upset stomach or stomach pain, diarrhea, heartburn, muscle cramps, coughing, blurred vision, nervousness, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, and shaking in any part of the body.

Common side effects of Mometasone include cough, headache, pain in the sinuses or throat, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, changes in menstrual cycle, and cold symptoms.

Inform your doctor if you experience chest tightness or pain, seizures, vision changes, muscle tightening, fainting, lightheadedness, skin rash, fast heart rate (tachycardia), white patches in your mouth or throat, changes in the location or shape of body fat, or worsening asthma symptoms while taking Dulera.

Many drugs can cause allergic reactions which, in the most serious cases, can result in death. Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips or tongue.