Wixela Inhub (Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol)

Wixela Inhub (Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol) is an inhalant medication used to prevent asthma attacks. It is also used to prevent flare-ups or worsening of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) associated with chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema. Wixela Inhub contains two active ingredients, Fluticasone and Salmeterol. Fluticasone belongs to a class of medications called steroids, and works by inhibiting inflammatory cells, such as mast cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages. Fluticasone also helps to inhibit the secretion of histamines, cytokines, and leukotrienes that are commonly released with asthma. It does this by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, and blocking the production of inflammatory proteins AP-1 and NF-kappaB. Salmeterol belongs to a class of medications called beta-2 agonists, and works by simulating the beta-2 receptors present in the airways, which causes the muscles to relax and prevent the onset and worsening of symptoms. Wixela Inhub is not a rescue medication. If you are having an asthma or bronchospasm attack, use the appropriate rescue medication.

Manufacturer Information

Canadian Pharmacy King currently offers the brand Wixela Inhub inhalation powder from Canada by Mylan; it is available in the strength of 100 mcg/50 mcg/60 doses, 250 mcg/50 mcg/60 doses, and 500 mcg/50 mcg/60 doses. The generic alternative is currently not available.

The common side effects of Wixela Inhub may include headache, muscle pain, bone pain, or back pain, nausea, vomiting, thrush, throat irritation, ongoing cough, hoarseness, cold symptoms, or an ear infection (fever, ear pain, trouble hearing, and drainage from the ear). Contact your doctor immediately if you notice more serious side effects such as:

• Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, seeing halos around lights;
• Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeats, severe headache, pounding in your neck or ears;
• Fever, chills, cough with mucous, feeling short of breath;
• Signs of a hormonal disorder (worsening tiredness or weakness, light-headedness, nausea, vomiting);
• Signs of high blood sugar (increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odour);
• Signs of low potassium levels (leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, increased thirst or urination, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness or limp feeling);
• Signs of thrush (a fungal infection) (sores or white patches in your mouth or throat, trouble swallowing);
• Tremors, nervousness;
• Wheezing, choking, or other breathing problems after using this medication

If you notice any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention.

You should not use Wixela Inhub if you are allergic to fluticasone or salmeterol, or if you are allergic to milk proteins. To make sure Wixela Inhub is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had glaucoma or cataracts, heart disease or high blood pressure, a seizure, diabetes, a food or drug allergy, a weak immune system, any type of infection (bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic), osteoporosis, a thyroid disorder, or liver or kidney disease. Wixela Inhub can weaken your immune system, making it easier for you to get an infection or worsening an infection you already have or have recently had. Tell your doctor about any illness or infection you have had within the past several weeks, and avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Long term use of steroid medications may lead to bone loss (osteoporosis), especially if you smoke, if you do not exercise, if you do not get enough vitamin D or calcium in your diet, or if you have a family history of osteoporosis.

Talk with your doctor about your risk. It is unknown whether this medication will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medication. Ask your doctor about any risk. Do not give this medication to a child without medical advice. Several medications may interact with Wixela Inhub, especially other bronchodilator or asthma medications, antifungal medication, or medication to HIV or AIDS. Tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking or have recently taken in order to reduce the risk of any possible interactions.

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