mannitol 40 mg inhalation powder in a capsule

Generic name:
Mannitol powder in capsule - oral inhalation

Pronunciation
(MAN-i-tol)

Brand name(s)
Bronchitol

This medication is used to treat cystic fibrosis. Mannitol may help to improve breathing.

Before starting treatment, your doctor should have you use a test dose of mannitol (a smaller dose) in the office to check for any breathing problems. Ask your doctor for more details.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Learn and follow the directions for proper use and care of the inhaler device and this medication. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Before using mannitol, use a quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) 5 to 15 minutes before each dose of mannitol to reduce the risk of side effects (such as wheezing).

Mannitol comes in a capsule. Do not swallow the capsules. Inhale the contents of the capsule by mouth using the inhaler device as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (once in the morning and once at least 2 to 3 hours before bedtime). Each dose is usually 10 of the 40-milligram capsules. This medication must always be used with its own special inhaler device. Do not use a "spacer" device with the inhaler.

Leave the capsules sealed in the blister card until just before use. Wash and completely dry hands before touching the capsules. Inhale the capsule contents as directed to make sure you inhale all of the drug. Load 1 capsule in the inhaler and be sure to inhale quickly and deeply through the mouthpiece when using this drug. You should hear the inhaler make a rattling noise as you inhale the medication. Hold your breath for up to 5 seconds. Do not exhale or blow into the inhaler. Open the inhaler to see if any powder is left in the capsule. If there is, close the inhaler and inhale again. Inhale all of the powder from each capsule. Remove the used capsule from the inhaler. Repeat with another capsule and continue until you get the full dose.

If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait at least one minute between the use of each medication.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not increase your dose, use this medication more often, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

Dry/irritated throat or coughing may occur. If either of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Rarely, this medication may cause sudden breathing problems/wheezing right after you use it. If this occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler and get medical help right away.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including:

• coughing up blood

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using mannitol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:

• coughing up blood

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medication will not work and may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as lung function) may be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep the inhaler device dry and throw the inhaler device away after 7 days. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.