Product Information:

FORTIDE Inhaler is a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) containing a fixed-dose combination of:

1. Fluticasone Propionate – an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that reduces airway inflammation
2. Formoterol Fumarate – a long-acting beta₂-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that provides sustained bronchodilation

While the exact strength may vary by manufacturer, common formulations in Pakistan include:

1. Fluticasone 125 mcg + Formoterol 5 mcg per actuation
2. Fluticasone 250 mcg + Formoterol 5 mcg per actuation

This combination is used for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is not for acute symptom relief.

⚠️ Note: Always confirm the strength printed on the inhaler canister or box.

Uses of (FORTIDE INHALER):

1. Maintenance therapy of moderate to severe persistent asthma in adults and adolescents (≥12 years)
2. Management of COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, with frequent exacerbations
3. Prevention of asthma symptoms and reduction in rescue inhaler use

Key Benefits of (FORTIDE INHALER):

1. Dual action: anti-inflammatory (fluticasone) + bronchodilator (formoterol)
2. Formoterol provides rapid onset (within 1–3 minutes) and lasts up to 12 hours
3. Reduces frequency of asthma/COPD exacerbations and hospitalizations
4. Improves lung function, symptom control, and quality of life
5. Convenient pressurized inhaler format with dose counter (in most variants)

How To Use (FORTIDE INHALER):

1. Shake well before each puff.
2. Prime the inhaler before first use or if unused for >7 days (spray 2–4 test puffs into the air).
3. Typical dosage:
4. Asthma: 1–2 puffs twice daily (morning and evening)
5. COPD: 2 puffs twice daily
6. Inhale slowly and deeply while pressing the canister; hold breath for 10 seconds.
7. Rinse mouth with water after each use to prevent oral thrush and hoarseness.
8. Do not exceed the prescribed number of puffs per day.

When Not to Use (FORTIDE INHALER):

Do not use if you have:

1. Hypersensitivity to fluticasone, formoterol, or any excipients (e.g., HFA propellant)
2. Acute asthma attack, status asthmaticus, or acute bronchospasm (not a rescue inhaler)
3. Severe uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmias or cardiovascular disease (use with caution)

Side Effects of (FORTIDE INHALER):

Common: Headache, tremor, palpitations, throat irritation, hoarseness, oral candidiasis (thrush).

Rare: Tachycardia, muscle cramps, hypokalemia, adrenal suppression (with long-term high-dose use).

Serious (rare):

1. Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening breathing after use)
2. Pneumonia (in COPD patients—symptoms: fever, increased sputum, chest pain)
3. Glaucoma, cataracts, or reduced bone density with prolonged high-dose use
4. Discontinue and seek immediate help if breathing worsens suddenly after inhalation.

Dosage: (FORTIDE INHALER):

1. Adults & adolescents (≥12 years):
2. Mild-moderate asthma: 125/5 mcg – 1–2 puffs twice daily
3. Severe asthma/COPD: 250/5 mcg – 2 puffs twice daily
4. Maximum: As prescribed—do not exceed recommended daily puffs
5. Not for children under 12 years unless directed by a specialist

Who It’s For (FORTIDE INHALER):

Adults and adolescents with persistent asthma or moderate-to-severe COPD requiring combination maintenance therapy. Not for intermittent asthma or acute attacks.

Warnings & Precautions:

1. Not a rescue inhaler—use short-acting beta-agonists (e.g., salbutamol) for acute symptoms
2. Monitor COPD patients for pneumonia
3. Long-term high-dose ICS may suppress adrenal function—taper slowly if discontinuing
4. Inform your doctor before surgery or dental procedures
5. Clean inhaler mouthpiece weekly with dry cloth—do not wash with water

Drug Interactions:

1. Beta-blockers: May antagonize bronchodilator effect and provoke bronchospasm
2. Diuretics, theophylline: Increased risk of hypokalemia
3. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): May increase fluticasone levels → systemic effects
4. Always inform your doctor about all medications.

Additional Information:

Store below 30°C. Do not puncture, freeze, or expose to heat (>50°C). Keep out of reach of children. Discard when dose counter reads “0” or after expiry date. Available by prescription in Pakistan.