BECLOMETASONE dipropionate, 50mcg/puff, 200 puffs, aerosol
Valid Article
BECLOMETASONE dipropionate, aerosol
- In the WHO list of Essential Medicines 2023 (Therapeutic alternative to budesonide)
Therapeutic Action
Inhaled CorticoSteroid (ICS)
Glucocorticoid with anti-inflammatory effects in the lungs, resulting in reduced asthma symptoms and exacerbations, with less adverse effects compared to systemic corticosteroids.
Indications
Maintenance treatment of chronic asthma after initial treatment with inhaled short-acting beta2 agonist (SABA) like salbutamol.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) following treatment with inhaled salbutamol and salmeterol.
Instructions for use
Suspension or solution in a Pressurised Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI): a small canister containing a mixture of medicine and pressurised propellant. The pressure from the propellant delivers the medication from the canister when the canister is pushed down into the boot/actuator.
Method of administration
- Shake the inhaler and ensure that liquid can be heard. Remove the mouthpiece cover.
- Inhale fully, then exhale as completely as possible.
- Place the lips firmly around the mouthpiece..
- Start to inhale with a long, slow breath and continue breathing deeply while activating the inhaler (puff).
- Remove the inhaler, close the lips, and hold the breath for 10 seconds or as long as comfortable.
- Exhale, wait a few seconds, shake the inhaler again, and repeat for the next puff, if needed.
- Replace the mouthpiece cover after use.
Manufacturers may express the content per puff as a "metered dose" (the quantity of the drug in the device metering chamber, excluding the valve) or as a "delivered dose" (the quantity of drug delivered to the user, excluding the mouthpiece). Always refer to the product leaflet.
The inhalers generally supplied by MSF are pressurised metered-dose inhalers (MDI). Refer to the information leaflet for appropriate instructions for use according to the inhaler model.
The pressurised metered-dose inhalers are CFC free. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are harmful to the ozone layer, and HFA (hydrofluoroalkane) propellants are a more effective, environmentally friendly alternative.
In adults and adolescents, when beclametasone is used in combination with a long-acting beta2 agonist (LABA), a combination inhaler is available: BECLOMETASONE dipr.100mcg/ FORMOTEROL fum. 6mcg/puff 120p, aer.
Precautions for Use
Beclometasone is not a bronchodilator. For asthma attacks, use inhaled salbutamol.
In children, use an inhalation chamber/spacer with or without a mask (depending on the child's age) for each administration of a pressurised metered- dose inhaler.
In patients who have difficulty coordinating the actuation of the metered-dose inhaler and inhalation (e.g., elderly patients), use an inhalation chamber/spacer to facilitate administration and improve the effectiveness of the product.
Do not use any mouthpiece other than the one provided with the inhaler.
Transport Dangerous Goods
UN transport code:
- UN 1950 - Aerosols, non-flammable (each not exceeding 1 L capacity)
- Transport Class 2.2 - Non-flammable, non-toxic gases
Transport is only regulated for large quantities of aerosols.
Storage
- Below 25ºC - Protect from sunlight
- Used aerosols: do not pierce or incinerate. Empty any residual gas, then dispose of by burying.