Aerocort Forte Rotacaps (Beclometasone/Levosalbutamol)

Description

What is it?

Aerocort Forte Rotacaps are dry‑powder capsules you inhale with a Rotahaler device to help control asthma and COPD symptoms. In plain words: they calm the swelling in your airways and open them up, so breathing feels smoother. Forte simply means higher strength than the regular Aerocort used when your doctor wants tighter control. Prescription‑only.

How it works (simple version)

Aerocort Forte combines:

• Beclomethasone dipropionate: an inhaled corticosteroid that cools airway swelling and irritation.
• Levosalbutamol (levalbuterol): a short‑acting bronchodilator that relaxes the airway muscles so air flows better. So, one treats the ongoing inflammation, the other opens things up fast. You get steady control plus relief.

Uses

• Maintenance treatment for asthma and COPD, especially when symptoms aren’t well controlled on lower doses.
• Not a cure, but part of your long‑term plan.
• Not meant as your only rescue in severe sudden attacks keep your reliever inhaler handy as advised.

Who can use it

Adults and, when prescribed, older children under medical supervision. If you’re unsure this strength is right for you, check with your clinician first.

How to use with a Rotahaler

• Keep Rotacaps sealed until you’re ready. Do not swallow them.
• Open the Rotahaler. Place one capsule in the chamber and twist/pierce as your device instructions show.
• Breathe out fully (away from the mouthpiece).
• Seal lips around the mouthpiece and inhale deeply and quickly.
• Hold your breath for a few seconds. Check the capsule—if powder remains, inhale again.
• Rinse your mouth and gargle after each dose (and spit) to reduce the chance of oral thrush. Tip: Keep the device clean and dry. Replace it if cracked or blocked.

Dosage & routine

Use exactly as prescribed (often once or twice daily). Don’t change the dose or stop suddenly without medical advice. Missed a dose? Take it when you remember if it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed one. Don’t double up.

Side effects & safety

Common (usually mild, short‑lived):

• Throat irritation, hoarse voice, cough after inhalation
• Dry mouth, odd taste
• Headache, mild tremor, palpitations, nervousness

Serious get help right away:

• Worsening wheeze right after use (paradoxical bronchospasm)
• Chest pain, severe dizziness, fainting
• Signs of allergy: rash, swelling, trouble breathing
• Persistent white patches or soreness in the mouth (thrush)

Tell your doctor before use if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, glaucoma, thyroid problems, diabetes, osteoporosis, prostate/urinary issues, seizures, liver problems, or a history of TB/infections. Pregnancy/breastfeeding: use only if your clinician says it’s needed and safe.

Interactions to watch

• Beta‑blockers may reduce bronchodilator effect.
• Other stimulants/bronchodilators can increase shakiness or palpitations.
• Strong antifungals/antivirals (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may raise steroid exposure—monitoring may be needed.
• Diuretics or meds that lower potassium: caution as advised by your doctor. Always share your full medication and supplement list.

Composition

Fixed‑dose combination of:

• Beclomethasone dipropionate (inhaled corticosteroid)
• Levosalbutamol/levalbuterol (short‑acting bronchodilator) Forte = higher strength than standard Aerocort. Check your pack for exact microgram amounts.

Storage & handling

• Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and moisture.
• Keep Rotacaps in the blister until use; protect from light.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• For inhalation via Rotahaler only do not swallow the capsules.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Aerocort Forte a steroid inhaler? It contains a steroid (beclomethasone) plus a quick bronchodilator (levosalbutamol). The steroid helps prevent flare‑ups; the bronchodilator helps you breathe easier.
2. Can I use it during a sudden attack? Follow your action plan. The bronchodilator may help quickly, but for severe symptoms you may still need a separate rescue inhaler or medical care.
3. Do I need to rinse my mouth after every dose? Yes—rinse and spit to cut the risk of oral thrush and hoarseness.
4. How fast does it work? Many people notice easier breathing within minutes from the bronchodilator. The anti‑inflammatory benefit builds over days to weeks with regular use.
5. Can children use Aerocort Forte Rotacaps? Only if prescribed and supervised by a healthcare professional. Forte is a higher strength.