Indications 

Incruse Ellipta is a prescribed medication for long-term treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both, to improve breathing and reduce flare-ups. 

As an anticholinergic drug, Incruse Ellipta keeps the muscles surrounding the airways in the lungs relaxed to open them up, reducing COPD symptoms like wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, thereby facilitating easier breathing. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Incruse Ellipta and every time you get a refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or clarifications. 

Incruse Ellipta is a powdered medication supplied in an inhaler device that contains preloaded blister packs with precise doses of the medicine. It is typically administered as one inhalation per day, to be taken at the same time daily, and not exceeding one dose within 24 hours. 

Opening the cover of the inhaler prepares a dose for inhalation. To prevent medication loss, refrain from opening and closing the cover without inhaling. The lost dose is secure in the inhaler but cannot be inhaled anymore. 

When using a new inhaler for the first time, take it out of the box and foil tray. Indicate the date of tray opening and the 6-week replacement date on the inhaler label. 

To use the inhaler: 

1. Begin by opening the cover of the inhaler 
   1. Slide down the cover until the mouthpiece is exposed, making sure to hear a “click.” 
   2. The counter will count down by 1 number, indicating that the inhaler is ready for use. No shaking is required. 
   3. If the counter does not count down after hearing the click, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist immediately, as the inhaler will not deliver the medicine. 
2. Prior to inhalation, exhale completely 
   1. Keep the inhaler away from your mouth while exhaling and avoid breathing out into the mouthpiece. 
3. Inhale the medication 
   1. Place the mouthpiece between your lips and close them securely around the curved shape of the mouthpiece. 
   2. Inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth, avoiding inhalation through your nose. 
   3. Avoid obstructing the air vent with your fingers. 
   4. After inhaling, take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for approximately 3 to 4 seconds or for the duration you find comfortable. 
4. Exhale slowly and gently 
   1. Even with proper inhaler usage, the medicine may not be sensed or tasted. 
   2. Refrain from taking another dose of the medicine from the inhaler, regardless of whether you can taste/feel it or not. 
5. Close the inhaler 
   1. Slide the cover-up over the mouthpiece until it is fully covered. 
   2. Clean the mouthpiece with a dry tissue before closing the cover, if necessary. Regular cleaning is unnecessary. 

If you are concurrently utilizing multiple inhalers, space out the use of each medication by at least one minute. 

Adhere strictly to your doctor’s guidelines. Consult with your doctor before discontinuing the use of Incruse Ellipta, for abrupt cessation may result in the worsening of your symptoms. 

Side Effects 

Possible side effects associated with the use of Incruse Ellipta are listed below. If any of them persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist. 

Common Side Effects 

• Upper respiratory tract infections 
• Nasal congestion or runny nose 
• Cough 
• Pain in the mouth and throat 
• Joint pain 
• Alteration in taste 
• Muscle pain 
• Tooth pain 
• Abdominal pain 
• Bruising or skin discoloration 
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat 

Serious Side Effects 

• Wheezing, choking, or any other breathing difficulties after using the inhaler 
• New or worsening eye problems, including acute narrow-angle glaucoma with symptoms such as:  
  • Eye pain or discomfort 
  • Nausea or vomiting 
  • Blurred vision 
  • Seeing halos or bright colors around lights 
  • Red eyes 
• New or worsening urinary retention with symptoms such as:  
  • Difficulty urinating 
  • Painful urination 
  • Frequent urination 
  • Weak stream or drips during urination 

Call your doctor at once if you experience any of the severe side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

If you experience any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, discontinue the use of Incruse Ellipta immediately and seek medical attention from your healthcare provider or the nearest emergency room: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Severe itching 
• Face, lips, mouth, or tongue swelling  
• Difficulty breathing 

The side effects of Incruse Ellipta listed here are not complete. If any unmentioned side effects arise and cause discomfort, tell your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before using Incruse Ellipta, inform your physician or pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to umeclidinium or any other medications. 

You may want to seek further information from your pharmacist, as this medication may contain inactive ingredients (such as milk proteins), that can cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To determine whether Incruse Ellipta is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, particularly of: 

• Glaucoma 
• Heart disease 
• Enlarged prostate  
• Urination problems 

There are certain products that may have interactions with Incruse Ellipta, including other anticholinergics such as atropine or ipratropium. 

To prevent such drug interactions, notify your doctor and pharmacist of all the medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, supplements, or herbal products you are currently or planning to take. 

Incruse Ellipta is not indicated for sudden COPD symptoms. Keep a short-acting bronchodilator rescue inhaler with you at all times. If you do not have one, contact your healthcare provider to obtain a prescription. 

The use of Incruse Ellipta during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the possible risks to the developing fetus. Women who are using this inhaler should contact their healthcare providers promptly if they become pregnant or plan to get pregnant.  

The excretion of umeclidinium in human breast milk is uncertain. Prior to nursing an infant, seek advice from your doctor.