About indacaterol

Indacaterol is called a bronchodilator as it dilates (widens) your airways. It works by opening up the air passages in your lungs so that air can flow into your lungs more freely. This helps to relieve symptoms of COPD such as coughing, wheezing and feeling breathless.

Before using indacaterol

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using indacaterol it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding. This is because it is particularly important that your breathing is well controlled if you are pregnant.
• If you have hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid gland).
• If you have heart problems or an irregular heartbeat.
• If you have high blood pressure.
• If you have diabetes mellitus (high sugar levels in your blood).
• If you have fits or epilepsy.
• If you have problems with your liver.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

How to use indacaterol

• Before using this inhaler, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. The leaflet will give you more information about indacaterol, a diagram to remind you how to use your inhaler device, and a full list of possible side-effects.
• Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and make sure you know how to use your inhaler properly. If you are not sure, ask your nurse, doctor or pharmacist to show you.
• Use your inhaler regularly once each day. There are two strengths of capsules - 150 mg and 300 mg. Your doctor will tell you which dose is right for you. Just as a reminder - the capsules must not be swallowed. They are to be used with the inhaler device only.
• Try to use your inhaler at the same time each day, as this will help you to avoid missing any doses. If you do forget to use it at the usual time, use it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for the forgotten one.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your doctor can review your condition on a regular basis.
• Do not smoke. Smoking causes irritation and damage to the lungs, and will make your condition worse. Speak with your doctor or practice nurse for further advice if you are having difficulty in stopping smoking.
• If you find that your symptoms are getting worse, continue to use your inhalers but also contact your doctor or nurse for advice straightaway.
• If you have diabetes you may need to check your blood glucose more frequently, as this inhaler may affect the levels of sugar in your blood. Your doctor will be able to advise you about this.

Can indacaterol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Important: if you get any crushing chest pain, contact your doctor for advice straightaway.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this inhaler, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store indacaterol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines