What Inhaler Is Comparable To Dulera? Dulera, a combination medication containing mometasone and formoterol, is a maintenance treatment for asthma. COMPARE.EDU.VN offers a comprehensive comparison of Dulera alternatives, helping you find the most suitable option for your respiratory needs. Explore effective alternatives and make informed decisions about managing your asthma with confidence. Discover suitable asthma medications, explore bronchodilator alternatives, and delve into long-term control medications.
1. Understanding Dulera and Its Role in Asthma Management
Dulera (mometasone furoate and formoterol fumarate dihydrate) is a brand-name inhaler combining two medications to manage asthma. As a combination inhaler, Dulera contains a corticosteroid (mometasone) and a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (formoterol). Dulera is effective for people with persistent asthma symptoms like cough, wheeze, chest tightness, or breathing difficulty. It acts as a bronchodilator, reducing inflammation and opening airways. This maintenance inhaler is used twice daily, offering convenience with two medications in one device.
1.1 Who Should Avoid Dulera?
While effective for some, Dulera may not suit everyone. Not all asthma patients need maintenance or combination inhalers. Mild asthma might only require a rescue inhaler like albuterol (Proair HFA, Proventil HFA) or an inhaled steroid like fluticasone (Flovent). Severe asthma may need multiple therapies. Dulera is approved for those aged 5 and older. Additionally, some patients may also manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While Dulera is only FDA-approved for asthma, similar inhalers can treat both asthma and COPD. Some alternatives are available as generics, offering more affordability.
1.2 Understanding the Generic Options and Affordability
Generic inhalers, like fluticasone propionate/salmeterol and budesonide/formoterol, are available for Advair, AirDuo, and Symbicort. Dulera’s components are not yet available in a generic combination. Common side effects of these alternatives include oral thrush, hoarse voice, upper respiratory infections, sinus infections, and headaches. Some have additional adverse effects to consider before switching.
2. Exploring Alternatives to Dulera
Several brand-name combination inhalers contain an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA). These include Advair Diskus, Advair HFA, AirDuo Digihaler, AirDuo RespiClick, Breo Ellipta, and Symbicort. Some, like Advair, AirDuo, and Symbicort, have generic versions, potentially reducing costs.
2.1 Key Considerations When Choosing an Alternative
When considering an alternative to Dulera, evaluate factors such as age approval, dosing frequency, side effects, and whether a generic option exists. This will ensure you select the best inhaler for your specific needs and circumstances.
3. Detailed Comparison of Dulera Alternatives
| Drug Name | Uses | Dosage | Get Coupon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dulera (mometasone/formoterol) | Asthma | 2 inhalations of 50-200 mcg/5 mcg by mouth twice daily | Dulera coupon |
| Advair Diskus (fluticasone/salmeterol) | Asthma and COPD | 1 inhalation of 100-500 mcg/50 mcg by mouth twice daily | Advair Diskus coupon |
| Advair HFA (fluticasone/salmeterol) | Asthma | 2 inhalations of 45-230 mcg/21 mcg by mouth twice daily | Advair HFA coupon |
| AirDuo Digihaler (fluticasone/salmeterol) | Asthma | 1 inhalation of 55-232 mcg/14 mcg by mouth twice daily | AirDuo Digihaler coupon |
| AirDuo RespiClick (fluticasone/salmeterol) | Asthma | 1 inhalation of 55-232 mcg/14 mcg by mouth twice daily | AirDuo RespiClick coupon |
| Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol) | Asthma and COPD | 1 inhalation of 100-200 mcg/25 mcg by mouth once daily | Breo Ellipta coupon |
| Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) | Asthma and COPD | 2 inhalations of 80-160 mcg/4.5 mcg by mouth twice daily | Symbicort coupon |
| Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol) | Asthma and COPD | 1 inhalation of 100-200 mcg/62.5 mcg/25 mcg by mouth once daily | Trelegy Ellipta coupon |
3.1 Other Asthma Maintenance Treatments
Alternative asthma maintenance treatments include single-medication inhalers, oral tablets, and injectable options. These can be considered based on individual needs and medical advice.
- Inhaled corticosteroids
- Long-acting anticholinergics
- Leukotriene receptor antagonists
- Biologics
4. Top 5 Alternatives to Dulera
4.1 Advair and Generics
Advair HFA and Advair Diskus are combination inhalers for asthma and COPD, containing fluticasone propionate (ICS) and salmeterol (LABA). Unlike Dulera, Advair has generic options, Wixela Inhub and fluticasone propionate/salmeterol, which may be more affordable. Advair and its generics are suitable for children aged 4 and older. Dosing is twice daily, similar to Dulera. Advair’s side effects are similar to Dulera, with additional reports of bronchitis, nausea, and vomiting in asthma patients, and pneumonia and musculoskeletal pain in COPD patients.
4.2 Symbicort and Generics
Symbicort is a combination inhaler for asthma and COPD, containing budesonide (ICS) and formoterol (LABA). Unlike Dulera, Symbicort has a generic version, budesonide/formoterol, potentially more affordable. Symbicort is for children aged 6 and older, dosed twice daily like Dulera. Symbicort’s side effects are similar to Dulera, with additional reports of back pain, nasal congestion, stomach discomfort, and vomiting.
4.3 Breo Ellipta
Breo Ellipta is a combination inhaler for asthma and COPD, containing fluticasone furoate (ICS) and vilanterol trifenatate (LABA). No generic version is available. It is approved for adults aged 18 and older. Unlike Dulera, Breo Ellipta is dosed once daily, which may be more convenient. Side effects are similar to Dulera, with additional reports of throat pain and bronchitis in asthma patients, and back pain, pneumonia, elevated blood pressure, fever, and joint pain in COPD patients.
4.4 AirDuo
AirDuo Digihaler and AirDuo RespiClick are combination inhalers for asthma, containing fluticasone propionate (ICS) and salmeterol (LABA). It contains lower doses of salmeterol and is available as a unique inhaler device. The AirDuo RespiClick has a generic inhaler available, which may be more affordable. AirDuo is for children aged 12 and older, dosed twice daily like Dulera. The Digihaler has built-in sensors for data collection via a mobile app, useful for feedback on inhaler technique and reminders.
4.5 Trelegy Ellipta
Trelegy Ellipta is a triple combination inhaler for asthma and COPD, containing fluticasone furoate (ICS), umeclidinium bromide (long-acting anticholinergic), and vilanterol trifenatate (LABA). It may be suitable for those needing additional maintenance therapy. No generic version is available, and it is approved for adults aged 18 and older. Unlike Dulera, Trelegy Ellipta is dosed once daily. With more medications, Trelegy Ellipta has more reported side effects, including bronchitis, back pain, nasal congestion, altered taste, diarrhea, constipation, urinary tract infection, musculoskeletal pain, pneumonia, nausea, and vomiting.
5. Exploring Natural Alternatives to Dulera
While there are no well-supported natural alternatives to Dulera like vitamins or supplements, there are remedies that are important for people with asthma to practice. The American Lung Association recommends being aware of and minimizing asthma triggers that can worsen symptoms. Lifestyle and diet modifications can help control asthma symptoms.
5.1 Common Asthma Triggers
- Air pollution
- Animal dander
- Aspirin
- Cigarette smoke
- Dust mites
- Exercise
- Fireplace or campfire smoke
- Food allergies (peanuts, shellfish)
- High humidity
- Mold
- NSAIDs
- Respiratory infections (colds, flu, sinus infections)
- Stress
- Strong odors (cleaning products, scented candles, air fresheners)
- Sudden temperature changes
- Trees or grass
5.2 Breathing Techniques
Breathing techniques like pursed-lip breathing and belly breathing can increase oxygen levels and clear stale air from the lungs. Practice these exercises for five to ten minutes daily.
6. Steps to Switch to a Dulera Alternative
6.1 Consult Your Doctor
Before stopping Dulera, create an asthma maintenance plan with your doctor. Suddenly stopping Dulera can worsen asthma symptoms. Once a plan is in place, Dulera can be safely discontinued and replaced with the new treatment.
6.2 Learn Proper Inhaler Use
Inhalers come in various devices with different usage instructions. Proper technique ensures correct medicine delivery. Healthcare professionals, like pharmacists, can teach inhaler use and advise on priming.
6.3 Maintain Oral Hygiene
Dulera and alternatives containing corticosteroids (Advair, Breo Ellipta, Symbicort) require rinsing the mouth with water (without swallowing) after use to prevent oral candidiasis (oral thrush).
6.4 Use Rescue Inhalers for Sudden Attacks
Sudden asthma symptoms require a rescue inhaler. Dulera alternatives are maintenance treatments, not for acute attacks. Rescue inhalers include albuterol (Proair, Proventil, Ventolin) and levalbuterol (Xopenex). Discuss all inhalers with your healthcare provider.
6.5 Disclose All Medications
Before switching, review all prescription and over-the-counter medications with your doctor to avoid drug interactions. For example, caution is needed when using ICS and LABA combination inhalers with certain antidepressants, ketoconazole, and diuretics.
7. Essential Considerations for Asthma Management
7.1 Understanding Asthma Triggers and How to Avoid Them
Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers is crucial for managing the condition effectively. These triggers can vary from person to person, so it’s important to understand what specifically affects you. Common triggers include allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander; irritants such as smoke, pollution, and strong odors; and other factors like exercise, cold air, and respiratory infections. Keeping a diary of your symptoms and activities can help you pinpoint your triggers.
7.2 The Role of a Peak Flow Meter in Monitoring Asthma
A peak flow meter is a portable device that measures how well air moves out of your lungs. Regular monitoring with a peak flow meter can help you detect changes in your lung function before you notice symptoms, allowing you to adjust your medication or take other steps to prevent an asthma attack. Your healthcare provider can help you determine your personal best peak flow measurement and develop a plan for what to do when your measurements drop.
7.3 Creating an Asthma Action Plan with Your Healthcare Provider
An asthma action plan is a written plan developed with your healthcare provider that outlines how to manage your asthma on a daily basis and what to do in case of an asthma attack. This plan should include information about your medications, how and when to take them, how to monitor your symptoms, and when to seek medical care. Having a written plan can help you stay in control of your asthma and respond quickly to any changes in your condition.
8. Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions About Asthma Medications
8.1 Debunking Myths About Steroid Inhalers
Many people have concerns about using steroid inhalers due to potential side effects. However, the steroids in these inhalers are different from anabolic steroids and are delivered directly to the lungs in low doses. The benefits of controlling asthma symptoms often outweigh the risks of side effects, which can be minimized by using proper inhaler technique and rinsing your mouth after use.
8.2 Understanding the Difference Between Rescue and Maintenance Inhalers
It’s important to understand the difference between rescue and maintenance inhalers. Rescue inhalers provide quick relief of asthma symptoms by relaxing the muscles around the airways, while maintenance inhalers work over time to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms from occurring. Using your maintenance inhaler as prescribed, even when you feel well, is key to controlling your asthma in the long term.
8.3 Managing Side Effects of Asthma Medications
All medications can cause side effects, but many side effects of asthma medications can be managed with simple strategies. For example, rinsing your mouth after using a steroid inhaler can help prevent oral thrush, and using a spacer can improve medication delivery and reduce side effects. If you experience bothersome side effects, talk to your healthcare provider about ways to manage them.
9. Advances in Asthma Treatment and Future Directions
9.1 The Role of Biologic Therapies in Severe Asthma
Biologic therapies are a newer class of medications that target specific molecules involved in the inflammatory process in asthma. These therapies can be very effective for people with severe asthma that is not well controlled with traditional treatments. They are typically given by injection or infusion and can help reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and improve lung function.
9.2 Personalized Medicine Approaches to Asthma Management
Personalized medicine approaches aim to tailor asthma treatment to the individual based on their specific characteristics, such as their genetic makeup, environmental exposures, and response to medications. This approach holds promise for improving asthma control and reducing the risk of side effects.
9.3 Emerging Technologies for Asthma Monitoring and Treatment
Emerging technologies are revolutionizing asthma monitoring and treatment. These include wearable sensors that track lung function, mobile apps that provide personalized feedback and support, and new inhaler devices that improve medication delivery. These technologies have the potential to empower people with asthma to better manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
10. Lifestyle Adjustments and Complementary Therapies for Asthma
10.1 The Importance of a Healthy Diet and Exercise for Asthma Control
A healthy diet and regular exercise can play a significant role in controlling asthma. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health, while regular exercise can strengthen the respiratory muscles and improve lung function.
10.2 Stress Management Techniques for Asthma
Stress can trigger asthma symptoms in some people, so it’s important to develop effective stress management techniques. These may include relaxation exercises, yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
10.3 The Potential Benefits of Acupuncture and Herbal Remedies for Asthma
Some people with asthma find relief from complementary therapies such as acupuncture and herbal remedies. However, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new therapies, as some may interact with your asthma medications or have other risks.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What is the primary use of Dulera?
Dulera is primarily used as a maintenance treatment for asthma, helping to control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.
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What are the active ingredients in Dulera?
Dulera contains mometasone furoate, a corticosteroid, and formoterol fumarate dihydrate, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist.
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Is Dulera a rescue inhaler?
No, Dulera is not a rescue inhaler. It is a maintenance inhaler used to control asthma over the long term. For quick relief of sudden asthma symptoms, a rescue inhaler like albuterol is needed.
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Can children use Dulera?
Yes, Dulera can be used in children aged 5 years and older.
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What are some common side effects of Dulera?
Common side effects include oral thrush, hoarse voice, upper respiratory infections, sinus infections, and headaches.
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What should I do if I experience side effects from Dulera?
If you experience bothersome side effects, talk to your healthcare provider. They can provide advice on managing the side effects or adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
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Are there any generic alternatives to Dulera?
Currently, there is no generic version of Dulera available that combines mometasone and formoterol. However, there are generic alternatives for some similar combination inhalers like Advair and Symbicort.
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How often should I use Dulera?
Dulera is typically used twice daily, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
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What are some natural ways to manage asthma symptoms?
While not replacements for prescribed medications, managing asthma triggers, practicing breathing techniques, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing stress can help control asthma symptoms.
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When should I seek medical advice about my asthma treatment?
You should seek medical advice if your asthma symptoms worsen, if you experience frequent asthma attacks, or if you have concerns about your current treatment plan. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your asthma management.
