Breo Ellipta

Breo Ellipta® is a prescription inhaler used for long-term maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD. It combines two medicines: an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) to reduce airway inflammation and a long-acting bronchodilator (LABA) to help keep airways open. It’s designed for once-daily use to support stable breathing over time - not for sudden symptoms.

• Contains fluticasone (anti-inflammatory) and vilanterol (long-acting bronchodilator)
• Used daily to help manage asthma symptoms
• Also prescribed for COPD maintenance
• Not a rescue inhaler for asthma attacks or sudden shortness of breath
• Requires a prescription and provider evaluation

Breo Ellipta® is a dry powder inhaler (DPI) that you inhale through your mouth, usually once a day at the same time. It works best when used consistently, even if you feel well, because it helps maintain control rather than provide immediate relief.

• Inhaled through the Ellipta device (breath-activated)
• Typically taken once daily, as prescribed
• Rinse your mouth after each dose to reduce irritation risk
• Do not use more often than prescribed
• Avoid combining with other LABA medicines unless directed

If you experience sudden breathing symptoms, use a rescue inhaler instead of taking an extra dose.

Breo Ellipta® can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some are related to the airways, while others may be linked to how your body responds to corticosteroids or bronchodilators.

• Common: sore throat, cough, headache, upper respiratory infections
• Possible: oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth), hoarseness
• May increase risk of infections, including pneumonia (especially in COPD)
• Get medical help right away if breathing worsens after use
• Contact your provider if you notice chest pain, fast heartbeat, or signs of allergic reaction

For more detail reach out to the Important Safety / Prescribing Information.

Breo Ellipta® is a prescription medication, so you’ll need a licensed provider to review your condition before starting it. Telemedicine can simplify this process.

• Complete an online consultation or questionnaire
• A provider reviews your symptoms and history
• Prescription is issued if appropriate
• Medication is sent to a pharmacy or delivered

No - Breo Ellipta® is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used during an asthma attack. It works over time and won’t relieve sudden symptoms quickly.

• Use your rescue inhaler for immediate relief
• Always keep emergency medication available
• Delaying proper treatment may worsen symptoms

If your breathing does not improve after using a rescue inhaler, seek medical help right away. Follow your provider’s asthma action plan for emergencies.

Yes - most people using Breo Ellipta® still need a rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms. Breo helps control asthma over time but does not replace fast-acting medication.

• Breo is for daily maintenance
• Rescue inhalers treat sudden breathing problems
• Both are typically used together

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual.

• Do not take two doses at once
• Try to take it at the same time each day
• Use reminders to stay consistent

Regular use is important for maintaining control.

No - you should not take extra doses unless your provider tells you to. Taking more than prescribed may increase side effects and will not provide quick relief.

• Breo does not work instantly
• Overuse may increase risk of side effects
• Use your rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms

If your asthma feels worse, contact your provider instead of adjusting your dose on your own.

Rinsing your mouth after each use helps reduce the risk of oral thrush, a fungal infection that can occur with inhaled corticosteroids.

• Rinse with water and spit it out
• Do not swallow the rinse water
• Helps protect your mouth and throat

If you notice white patches or soreness, contact your provider.

It depends on the type of inhaler. Some combinations are appropriate, while others may increase the risk of side effects.

• Avoid using multiple LABA inhalers together
• Share your full medication list with your provider
• Do not add new inhalers without guidance

Your provider will help determine the safest combination for you.

Yes - you can eat or drink after using Breo Ellipta®. Just make sure you rinse your mouth first as recommended.

• Rinse before eating or drinking
• No specific food restrictions are listed
• Maintain good oral hygiene

There are no specific restrictions listed, but it’s best to be mindful. Alcohol can affect your overall health and how your body responds to medication.

• Moderate intake is generally acceptable
• Avoid excessive drinking
• Check with your provider if unsure

Most people can continue normal activities like driving. However, you should be aware of how your body reacts.

• Watch for dizziness or palpitations
• Avoid driving if you feel unwell
• Allow time to adjust to treatment

Breo Ellipta® may not be suitable if you have a severe milk protein allergy, as it contains lactose.

• Inform your provider about allergies
• Avoid use if you’ve had severe reactions
• Alternatives may be available

Always confirm with your provider before starting treatment.

Store your inhaler in a dry place at room temperature to maintain effectiveness.

• Keep away from moisture and heat
• Store in original packaging until use
• Avoid extreme temperatures

Proper storage helps ensure consistent dosing.

Replace your inhaler based on the dose counter or expiration date, whichever comes first.

• Do not use once the counter reaches zero
• Follow expiration instructions on packaging
• Old inhalers may not deliver accurate doses

If unsure, your pharmacist can help you check.

Yes - Breo Ellipta® is a prescription medication. A healthcare provider must evaluate your condition before prescribing it.

• Requires medical review
• Not everyone will qualify
• Ensures safe and appropriate use

Telemedicine can make the process more convenient, but provider approval is always required.

Breo Ellipta® (Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol 100/25 mcg, 200/25 mcg) - combination inhaler (ICS + LABA) dry powder inhaler (DPI) used for once-daily maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD; not for acute bronchospasm. / Source: NCBI

Link: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=96428df1-ea05-431a-98d3-1ec2c4b63878 / Published: Not clearly shown on DailyMed