✅ Flohale 0.5 mg Respules: Asthma Inhalation Treatment – Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

What is Flohale Respules?

Flohale Respules contain the active ingredient fluticasone propionate, a corticosteroid used in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by reducing inflammation in the airways, helping to improve breathing and control symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath when administered via a nebulizer.

✅ Indications (Uses)

Flohale 0.5 mg Respules are used for the maintenance treatment and prophylaxis of chronic asthma in both adults and children, and in some cases, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

🔹 Primary Uses:

• Persistent asthma (mild, moderate, or severe)
• Allergic airway inflammation
• Exercise-induced bronchospasm prevention (with regular use)
• Pediatric asthma (as young as 1 year, if prescribed)

Not intended for rapid relief of acute asthma attacks.

⚙️ Mechanism of Action

Fluticasone Propionate is a synthetic inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). It acts locally in the lungs to:

• Reduce inflammation and allergic responses in the airway
• Decrease mucus production
• Lower airway hyperresponsiveness

This helps in preventing asthma symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath over time.

🕒 Dosage & Administration

📌 Usual Dosage:

• Adults and adolescents: 0.5 mg twice daily
• Children (over 1 year): Usually 0.25–0.5 mg once or twice daily (as prescribed)

📌 Administration Method:

• Administered via a jet nebulizer with a face mask or mouthpiece
• Do not mix with other medications unless directed by your doctor
• Shake the respule well before use
• Use immediately after opening

Always follow the prescribed dose and schedule. Consistency is key to asthma control.

⚠️ Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Throat irritation or cough
• Oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth)
• Headache
• Nasal congestion

Less Common but Serious:

• Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis
• Delayed growth in children with long-term use
• Cataracts or glaucoma (rare, with prolonged use)
• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Rinse mouth with water after each use to help prevent oral thrush.

🛑 Warnings & Precautions

• Not for emergency use (does not replace a fast-acting rescue inhaler)
• Should be used regularly, even if symptoms improve
• Use with caution in:
  • Children (monitor growth)
  • Patients with tuberculosis, infections, or eye problems
• May increase risk of systemic corticosteroid effects if used improperly or at high doses
• Do not stop suddenly—taper under medical supervision

🔄 Drug Interactions

May interact with:

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, ketoconazole) – can increase corticosteroid levels
• Other steroids – may increase systemic side effects
• Certain antifungal or antiviral medications

📦 Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C (77°F)
• Do not freeze
• Protect from light
• Use immediately after opening the respule
• Keep out of reach of children