New salmeterol/fluticasone breath-actuated inhaler for asthma and COPD

Fusacomb Easyhaler contains the long acting ß₂ agonist (LABA) salmeterol and the corticosteroid fluticasone in a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler.

It is indicated in adults and adolescents 12 years or older for the regular treatment of asthma where the use of a combination product (an inhaled corticosteroid and a long acting ß₂ agonist) is appropriate.

It can be used in patients not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids and 'as needed' inhaled short acting ß₂ agonist, or patients adequately controlled on both inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting ß₂ agonist.

For COPD, the inhaler is indicated for symptomatic treatment in adults with a pre-bronchodilator FEV₁ less than 60% predicted normal and a history of repeated exacerbations, who have significant symptoms despite regular bronchodilator therapy.

Like all dry-powder inhalers Easyhaler is inspiratory flow-driven, which means that the powder will follow the inspired air into the airways when the patient inhales. The inhaler is pre-loaded and primed by pressing. It has a dose indicator that counts down in intervals of 5, with the last 20 doses marked in red.

Fusacomb Easyhaler is available in two strengths, 50/250 microgram and 50/500 microgram, and is taken as one inhalation twice daily. The dose should be titrated to the lowest dose at which effective control of symptoms is maintained.