Aug. 21, 2014 -- The FDA has approved Arnuity Ellipta (fluticasone furoate inhalation powder), an inhaled steroid taken once a day to prevent asthma symptoms in people 12 and older, drugmaker GlaxoSmithKline says.
Arnuity Ellipta has been tested in more than 3,600 people with asthma, the company says in a statement. The most common side effects (reported in at least 5% of people) were upper respiratory tract infection, common cold, headache, and bronchitis.
Arnuity Ellipta helps prevent an asthma attack but doesn’t treat it once it happens, so you still need your rescue inhaler.
Arnuity Ellipta should not be used if you have a severe milk allergy.
Side effects are similar to those of other inhaled steroids. For example, some people who take Arnuity Ellipta may develop a yeast infection in their mouth.
Close monitoring for glaucoma and cataracts is also needed, the company says.
GlaxoSmithKline says more information, including a patient information leaflet, will be available soon on its web site.
With reporting by Megan Brooks, Medscape Medical News
source : FDA OKs New Once-Daily Asthma Treatment
