Aclidinium

Aclidinium is a drug to relieve symptoms of shortness of breath, cough, or symptoms  due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Please note that this medication is not used to treat sudden attacks of shortness of breath or wheezing (acute bronchospasm).  

Aclidinium belongs to the class of anticholinergic bronchodilators. This drug works by relaxing the muscles in the respiratory tract. That way, the respiratory tract can widen and the flow of air to and from the lungs can be smoother.

Please note that this drug only relieves symptoms, but cannot cure COPD. Aclidinium is available in the form of an inhalation liquid which is used by inhaling through an inhaler . This medicine should not be used carelessly and must be in accordance with a doctor's prescription. 

Aclidinium trademark: Eklira Genuair

What is Aclidinium

Warnings Before Using Aclidinium

Here are some things you need to pay attention to before using aclidinium:

• Do not use aclidinium if you are allergic to this drug, atropine, or milk protein. Tell your doctor about your history of allergies.
• Tell your doctor if you have had or are currently suffering from  an enlarged prostate gland , liver disease, kidney disease,  glaucoma , or bladder disease.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, herbal products, or supplements, in case of drug interactions.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
• See a doctor immediately if an allergic reaction to the drug occurs after using aclidinium.

Dosage and Rules for Using Aclidinium

In general, the dose to treat respiratory problems due to COPD is 1 inhalation (322 mcg aclidinium), 2 times a day.

How to Use Aclidinium Correctly

Follow the doctor 's recommendations and read the information on the medicine packaging before using aclidinium. Do not increase or decrease the dose without your doctor's approval.

To use the inhaler, open the lid and make sure the edges are clean and dry. Before inhaling the inhaler, exhale as much as possible and then hold your breath. Immediately position the inhaler mouthpiece between the upper and lower teeth, then close your mouth to the sides of the mouthpiece .

Press the top of the inhaler so that the medicine comes out, then inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then breathe again as usual. After that, clean the inhaler with a dry tissue.

Take aclidinium at around the same times each day. If you forget to use it, use this medicine immediately if the gap between the next dose is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.

Store aclidinium in a closed container at room temperature so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight. Keep this drug out of reach of children.

Aclidinium Interactions with Other Drugs

There are several drug interaction effects that may occur if aclidinium is used with other drugs, including:

• Increased side effects of aclidinium if used with anticholinergic bronchodilators, such as tiotropium or ipratropium
• Decreased effectiveness of aripiprazole, olanzapine , or clozapine
• Increased risk of side effects of levodopa, such as tardive dyskinesia

To avoid unwanted interaction effects, consult a doctor before using aclidinium together with other drugs.

Aclidinium Side Effects and Dangers

Some side effects that can occur after using aclidinium are:

• Headache
• Cough
• Dry mouth
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion
• Nauseous
• Diarrhea

Consult a doctor if the above complaints do not subside. See a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug or more serious side effects, such as:

• Pounding heart or faster heartbeat
• Blurred vision, eye pain, or swollen eyes
• Difficulty urinating
• Unusual fatigue