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Incruse Ellipta vs Breo Ellipta
Introduction
For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, certain drugs that modify the bronchial muscle tone and reduce airway inflammation can help in managing symptoms and improving lung function. Incruse Ellipta and Breo ellipta are two such medications often prescribed for these conditions. Both have a bronchodilator effect, which widens the airways to allow easier breathing.
Incruse Ellipta contains umeclidinium, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), blocking acetylcholine's action on muscarinic receptors in bronchial muscles thus promoting relaxation of these muscles.
Breo Ellipta, on the other hand, is a combination medication that includes fluticasone furoate, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid reducing swelling inside the lungs; and vilanterol trifenatate - a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) stimulating adrenergic receptors in bronchial muscles leading to their dilation.
What is Incruse Ellipta?
Umeclidinium (the generic name for Incruse Ellipta) is a long-acting bronchodilator, marking a significant advancement from the short-acting bronchodilators. It was first approved by the FDA in 2014. Incruse Ellipta works by relaxing muscles in the airways to improve breathing and is prescribed for treating symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
On the other hand, Breo ellipta contains both fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs, and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that relaxes and opens air passages in the lungs. This combination results in it being more effective at managing COPD symptoms than Incruse alone but also carries potential side effects associated with steroid use.
What conditions is Incruse Ellipta approved to treat?
Incruse Ellipta is approved for the treatment of various respiratory conditions:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema
- Maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD
On the other hand, Breo ellipta has been approved to treat both COPD and asthma:
- It can be used as a maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction and to reduce exacerbations in patients with COPD.
- For asthma, it's approved for long-term control treatment of asthma in adults.
How does Incruse Ellipta help with these illnesses?
Incruse Ellipta works to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by increasing the amount of air flow to the lungs. It does this by relaxing and opening the airways, so breathing can be maintained easier for longer periods of time. This medication is an anticholinergic, a class of drugs that block certain nerve impulses in muscles around the bronchial tubes, which helps reduce contraction and narrowing of these tubes. COPD patients typically experience difficulty in breathing due to inflammation and constriction in their airways. Therefore, by expanding these airways, Incruse Ellipta can limit the negative effects of COPD and help patients manage their condition more effectively.
On the other hand, Breo ellipta contains two active ingredients: fluticasone furoate, a corticosteroid that reduces lung inflammation; and vilanterol trifenatate - a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that relaxes smooth muscle cells surrounding bronchioles within lungs allowing them to open wider facilitating better airflow. This combination provides dual action against symptoms associated with conditions like asthma or COPD including shortness of breath or wheezing.
What is Breo Ellipta?
Breo ellipta is a brand name for a combination of two drugs: fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). The ICS component reduces the inflammation in the airways while the LABA helps to relax and open up the airways. Breo Ellipta was first approved by the FDA in 2013. As it combines both an ICS and LABA, it provides comprehensive management of conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. Its dual-action profile means its side effects may be different from those of single-mechanism drugs like Incruse Ellipta which only contains an anticholinergic agent called umeclidinium. In particular, Breo Ellipta might cause more systemic side-effects due to its steroid component but might also provide better control over symptoms for some patients who do not respond well to “typical” bronchodilator-only therapies such as Incruse Ellipta.
What conditions is Breo Ellipta approved to treat?
Breo ellipta has received FDA approval for the treatment of:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema.
- Asthma in patients aged 18 years and older, whose condition is not adequately controlled with a long-term asthma control medication or whose disease severity necessitates an initial treatment with two maintenance therapies.
How does Breo Ellipta help with these illnesses?
Breo ellipta is a medication that combines fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). This dual-action drug works by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs. The combined effect allows for better breathing, making it particularly useful for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. Unlike Incruse Ellipta which contains only one active ingredient umeclidinium (a long-acting muscarinic antagonist - LAMA), Breo Ellipta provides both anti-inflammatory action and bronchodilation. So when a patient doesn't respond adequately to single-agent treatment such as Incruse Ellipta or requires more comprehensive management of their COPD or asthma symptoms, Breo Ellipta may be prescribed.
How effective are both Incruse Ellipta and Breo Ellipta?
Both Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium) and Breo ellipta (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol) are inhalable drugs used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but they vary slightly in their components. Approved by the FDA within a year of each other, both have demonstrated efficacy in improving lung function and reducing exacerbations associated with COPD.
Incruse Ellipta is an anticholinergic bronchodilator that works by relaxing the muscles around the airways to make breathing easier, while Breo Ellipta combines an inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist to reduce inflammation and relax the muscles of the airways simultaneously. The effectiveness of these two medications was compared directly in a 2014 clinical trial; both drugs showed similar ability to improve lung function as well as comparable safety profiles.
A 2015 review indicated that Incruse Ellipta improves measures of lung function from early stages of treatment, demonstrating favorable side effects profile over placebo during one-year-long trials. It has been proven effective across different severities of COPD and is well-tolerated even among elderly populations.
Breo Ellipta seems to be more effective than placebo at improving lung function according to a 2016 review, and it appears on par with other common treatments for COPD. Nonetheless, because it contains steroids alongside its bronchodilation component, it might be considered after first-line anticholinergic options like Incruse if symptoms persist or worsen despite initial therapy or there's frequent exacerbation history. Owing to its unique pharmacology combination though, Breo may become optimal treatment for patients who did not respond sufficiently well to monotherapies or those having severe forms requiring multiple therapies.
At what dose is Incruse Ellipta typically prescribed?
Inhaled dosages of Incruse Ellipta consist of one inhalation of 62.5 micrograms once daily, which has been found to be effective for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. On the other hand, Breo ellipta is used at a dosage of one inhalation of 100/25 micrograms or 200/25 micrograms once daily, depending on the severity and response rate in individual patients. Just like with Incruse Ellipta, it's mainly employed in managing COPD and asthma in adults. Regardless of whether you're using Incruse or Breo Ellipta, do not exceed more than one inhalation per day.
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At what dose is Breo Ellipta typically prescribed?
Breo ellipta treatment is typically initiated at a dosage of 100/25 mcg (fluticasone/vilanterol) once daily. This combines both an inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist to control symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma for the full 24 hour period. For patients with severe COPD or those not adequately responding to the initial dose, it can be increased to 200/25 mcg per day. The maximum recommended dose is 200/25 mcg once daily. It's critical that doses are not skipped as maintaining regular medication schedules helps achieve better overall symptom control and lung function enhancement.
What are the most common side effects for Incruse Ellipta?
Common side effects of Incruse Ellipta and Breo ellipta may include:
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Oral candidiasis (yeast infection in the mouth)
- Cough and hoarseness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea
- Fever or chills
- Back pain and arthralgia (joint pain)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
It's important to note that while both medications have similar side effects due to their shared component (an inhaled corticosteroid), Breo Ellipta also contains a long-lasting beta2-adrenergic agonist which can cause additional side effects such as nervousness, tremors, palpitations or rapid heartbeat. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Incruse Ellipta?
Both Incruse Ellipta and Breo ellipta are used to control symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but there are some differences in potential side effects that you should be aware of:
- Severe allergic reactions, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness or difficulty breathing
- Signs of infection such as fever, chills, persistent cough or sore throat
- White patches on tongue/in mouth, signs of oral thrush
- Vision changes such as blurred vision or seeing halos around lights
- Increased urination and/or thirst – a sign of high blood sugar levels
- Chest pain or discomfort; irregular heartbeat; nervousness; tremor; new or worsening trouble breathing
If any above mentioned side effect occur while taking either medication seek immediate medical attention.
As with all medications it is important to discuss these potential risks with your healthcare provider before starting treatment so they can monitor for these rare but serious effects.
What are the most common side effects for Breo Ellipta?
Common side effects of Breo ellipta include:
- Sore throat, cough, and hoarseness
- Headache
- Upper respiratory tract infection symptoms such as stuffy nose or sinusitis
- Oral thrush (yeast infection in the mouth)
- Pneumonia
- Bone fractures
- Rapid heartbeat
- Tremors or nervousness In rare cases, it can cause more serious issues like blurred vision due to glaucoma or cataracts, weight loss due to decreased adrenal function, rash from allergic reactions. It's also important to note that while not common, some people may experience increased urination and muscle pain. As with any medication decision should be made after considering both the potential benefits and risks.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Breo Ellipta?
While Breo ellipta is generally well-tolerated, it may cause severe side effects in rare cases. Be aware of the following symptoms:
- Signs of allergic reactions, such as hives, itching, fever or swelling (including facial and throat swelling), difficulty breathing
- Vision problems like blurred vision or seeing halos around lights
- Severe skin reaction which includes burning sensation in eyes, painful rashes that leads to blistering and peeling
- Increased heart rate or irregular heartbeat
- Extreme anxiety or restlessness leading to unusual behavior
- Difficulty sleeping due to increased energy levels
If you experience any of these adverse effects while taking Breo Ellipta, seek immediate medical attention.
Contraindications for Incruse Ellipta and Breo Ellipta?
Both Incruse Ellipta and Breo ellipta, along with most other medications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can potentially worsen symptoms in some individuals. If you notice your COPD symptoms worsening or an increase in breathing difficulties, please consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Neither Incruse Ellipta nor Breo Ellipta should be used if you are taking or have recently taken certain drugs like beta-blockers. Always inform your doctor of the medications you are currently using; this is crucial to prevent dangerous interactions between these drugs and Incruse or Breo Ellipta. It's also important to note that both these inhalers contain medicines that may interact with other drugs used for heart conditions, high blood pressure, depression among others, so it’s essential to provide a comprehensive list of all medications you're on when discussing treatment options.
How much do Incruse Ellipta and Breo Ellipta cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- A 30-day supply of Incruse Ellipta (55 mcg) averages around $350, which works out to about $11.70/day.
- The price for a 30-day supply of Breo ellipta (100/25 mcg) is approximately $400, working out to be roughly $13.33/day.
Thus, if you are prescribed a daily dose, then brand-name Incruse Ellipta is less expensive on a per-day treatment basis than Breo Ellipta. Please note that cost should not be your only consideration in determining which of these drugs is right for you.
Currently there are no generic versions available for either Incruse Ellipta or Breo Ellipta as they are relatively new medications still under patent protection; thus their costs remain higher compared with other established asthma and COPD treatments that have generic equivalents.
Popularity of Incruse Ellipta and Breo Ellipta
Incruse Ellipta, a brand name of the medication umeclidinium, is an inhaler used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In 2020, prescriptions for Incruse Ellipta reached approximately 1.8 million in the United States. Umeclidinium is classified as a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and has been on the market since 2014.
On the other hand, Breo ellipta combines two medications - fluticasone furoate and vilanterol. Just like Incruse Ellipta, it's also used in COPD treatment but additionally can be prescribed for asthma management. In terms of prescription numbers, Breo Ellipta was prescribed to roughly 2 million people in the USA in 2020 which accounts for nearly half of all prescriptions within its class. The combination therapy offered by Breo Ellipta provides both anti-inflammatory action through fluticasone and bronchodilation due to vilanterol – this makes it quite unique compared to Incruse which only offers bronchodilation effects.
Conclusion
Both Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium) and Breo ellipta (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol) have well-established records of usage in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), supported by numerous clinical studies indicating their efficacy over placebo treatments. These drugs may be used together under careful monitoring by a physician, as they work differently to improve lung function; Incruse Ellipta is a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes muscles in the airways to improve breathing, while Breo Ellipta combines an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation with another long-acting bronchodilator for improved airflow.
Both medications are available only as branded prescriptions currently, which can lead to higher out-of-pocket costs for some patients. It's important to note that both treatments require regular use for optimum effect—these aren't instant relief inhalers but are designed for maintenance treatment of COPD.
The side effect profile is generally similar between the two drugs, being mostly well-tolerated but potential effects include pneumonia, fungal infections in your mouth or throat, bone thinning or weakness among others. With Breo Ellipta there might also be an increased risk of asthma-related death. For both drugs, patients must report any worsening symptoms immediately and should seek medical help if they experience serious allergic reactions or cardiovascular effects such as chest pain or irregular heartbeats.