Description
Indications
Bricanyl Turbuhaler is used to help ease bronchial asthma symptoms and relieve reversible bronchospasm associated with bronchitis and emphysema.
As a bronchodilator, Bricanyl Turbuhaler works by relaxing the muscles in the airways and reducing lung resistance, making breathing easier.
Uses and Dosage
Before using Bricanyl Turbuhaler and with every prescription refill, carefully review the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. Should you have any queries or concerns, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for assistance.
Bricanyl Turbuhaler contains a powder for inhalation, which should be inhaled as deeply and strongly to ensure proper medication delivery into the lungs.
The dosage of this inhaler is individualized based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment.
The usual recommended dose of Bricanyl turbuhaler is one inhalation as needed. Do not exceed six inhalations within 24 hours.
Prior to the initial use of a new inhaler, it must be prepared for use. This preparation is a one-time requirement and does not need to be repeated, even if the inhaler is infrequently used.
To prepare the inhaler, follow these steps:
- Unscrew and remove the cover.
- You will hear a normal rattling sound as the cover is removed.
- Hold the inhaler in an upright position.
- Avoid holding it by the mouthpiece.
- Turn the blue grip as far as it will go in one direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise (the direction does not matter).
- Next, turn the blue grip as far as it will go in the opposite direction.
- While turning the grip, you will hear a distinct “click.” This click is a part of the preparation process.
- Repeat step 2 one more time.
- Your inhaler is now prepared and ready for use.
To properly administer a dose, follow these steps:
- Unscrew and remove the cover.
- Hold the inhaler upright, avoiding holding it by the mouthpiece.
- Turn the blue grip as far as it will go in one direction, either clockwise or counterclockwise (the direction does not matter).
- Then, turn the blue grip as far as it will go in the opposite direction to load a dose. You will hear a “click” during this process.
- Note: If you accidentally drop, shake, or exhale into the inhaler after loading a dose, you will lose the dose. In such cases, repeat step 2 to load a new dose.
- Exhale with your mouth away from the mouthpiece. Then, place the mouthpiece gently between your teeth, closing your lips over it without biting or chewing.
- Inhale as deeply and strongly as possible.
- When inhaling, you may not feel or taste the medication; this is normal.
- Before exhaling, remove the inhaler from your mouth.
- Repeat steps 2-4 if more than one dose is prescribed.
- After taking the prescribed doses, screw the inhaler’s cover back on.
Some medication may stick to the inside of your mouth and throat with each inhalation. To reduce the risk of side effects, rinse your mouth with water and do not swallow.
Clean the external surface of the mouthpiece weekly using a dry tissue. Do not use water or any other liquid, as it can disrupt the inhaler’s functionality if it enters.
Do not attempt to detach or unnecessarily twist the mouthpiece; it is securely attached to the inhaler and should not be removed.
Do not use the inhaler if it is damaged or the mouthpiece has separated from the device.
For optimal results, use Bricanyl Turbuhaler exactly as directed. Do not alter the number of inhalations prescribed without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nervousness
- Tremors
The above-listed side effects often resolve within the initial days of treatment. If any of them persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.
Other Potential Side Effects
- Headache
- Skin reactions like flushing, sweating, hives, and rash
- Occasional muscle cramps
- Sleep disturbances or drowsiness
- Restlessness, agitation, hyperactivity
- Stomach discomfort, nausea, vomiting
- Weakness and dizziness
- Nausea and increased sweating
This list does not cover all side effects of Bricanyl Turbuhaler. Report to your doctor if other side effects occur while using this inhaler.
Cautions
Before starting treatment with Bricanyl Turbuhaler, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to terbutaline.
Seek further guidance from your pharmacist regarding this inhaler, as it could include inactive ingredients (e.g., trace amounts of milk protein residue), which may trigger allergic reactions or other problems.
To ensure Bricanyl Turbuhaler is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, especially if you have a history of:
- Heart problems (e.g., irregular heartbeat, chest pain)
- Uncontrolled asthma
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Thyroid problems
- Seizures
- Low levels of potassium in the blood
- If you are over 65 years old
Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any other medications you are taking or have recently used, including prescription or nonprescription medicine, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to prevent potential drug interaction with Bricanyl Turbuhaler.
Some of the medications that can interact with Bricanyl Turbuhaler include:
- Other bronchodilator medications
- Beta-blockers (used for high blood pressure, heart conditions, and some eye drops)
- Epinephrine (adrenaline)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Steroid medications (e.g., prednisolone)
- Xanthine medications (e.g., theophylline)
- Diuretics
- Halothane or halogenated anesthesia
Deterioration of asthma may occur during treatment with Bricanyl Turbuhaler. Promptly seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Your typical dose does not alleviate symptoms.
- Your breathing condition worsens (increased breathlessness, wheezing, or chest tightness).
- You become too breathless to speak, eat, or sleep.
- The effects of a single dose last less than three hours.
- You find yourself using Bricanyl Turbuhaler daily to manage symptoms.
Premature infants born to mothers using Bricanyl Turbuhaler may have low blood sugar levels in late pregnancy. Inform your healthcare provider about your pregnancy status and future conception intentions to assess the risks and benefits to you and your baby.
Terbutaline can be transferred into breast milk. Care should be taken when administering Bricanyl Turbuhaler to nursing mothers.