Airz Capsules (Glycopyrrolate)

Airz Capsules (Indacaterol) – Capsule for Inhalation

Airz Capsules are capsules for inhalation, not for swallowing. Most packs contain indacaterol (a long‑acting bronchodilator) for once‑daily maintenance treatment of COPD, and sometimes as part of an asthma plan under specialist advice. In plain words, it relaxes the airway muscles so you can breathe easier all day. It’s steady control, not a quick rescue.

What it is

• Dosage form: Capsule for inhalation (use only with the device supplied/compatible with your pack)
• Likely active ingredient: Indacaterol (strengths vary by brand/market; commonly 150 mcg)
• Class: Long‑acting beta2 agonist (LABA)
• Use: Maintenance therapy for COPD; only use for asthma if your doctor pairs it with an inhaled steroid

Who it’s for

• Adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who need once‑daily bronchodilation
• Patients advised by a clinician to use a LABA as part of their long‑term plan
• Not a rescue option for sudden breathlessness

How Airz Capsules Work (simple)

Airway muscles can clamp down and make tubes narrow. Indacaterol tells those muscles to relax. The tubes open, air flows better, and symptoms like wheeze, chest tightness, and morning cough ease up. It acts fast (often within minutes) and lasts about 24 hours—so one dose covers your day. But it won’t stop an acute attack; keep your reliever inhaler with you.

How to Use Airz Capsules

Step‑by‑step (don’t swallow)

1. Open the device as shown in your pack insert.
2. Place one capsule in the chamber.
3. Pierce the capsule according to your device’s instructions.
4. Breathe out fully (away from the mouthpiece).
5. Seal lips around the mouthpiece and breathe in quickly and deeply.
6. Hold your breath for up to 5–10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
7. Check the capsule; if powder remains, inhale again once or twice.
8. Discard the empty capsule. Do not swallow it.

Dosing & timing

• Usual: One inhalation capsule once daily at the same time each day
• Missed dose: Skip and take the next dose at the usual time. Don’t double up.
• Not for sudden symptoms: If you’re breathless now, use your quick‑relief inhaler and follow your action plan.

Side Effects & Safety

Common (usually mild)

• Cough right after inhalation
• Sore/dry throat, hoarseness
• Headache, dizziness, tremor
• Fast heartbeat or palpitations
• Nausea

Serious (get medical help fast)

• Chest pain, severe or irregular heartbeat
• Paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening wheeze straight after a dose)
• Allergic reaction: rash, swelling of face/lips, breathing trouble
• Very low potassium signs: muscle cramps, weakness, irregular pulse

Who should be careful

• Heart disease, arrhythmias, high blood pressure
• Overactive thyroid, diabetes (LABAs can nudge glucose up and potassium down)
• Severe liver/kidney problems (dose/choice may need review)
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding—only on medical advice
• Asthma users: LABA should not be used alone—pair with an inhaled steroid if your clinician says so

Interactions to Watch

• Beta‑blockers (e.g., propranolol) can blunt the effect of indacaterol
• Diuretics, steroids, and xanthines (e.g., theophylline) increase risk of low potassium
• MAOIs or tricyclic antidepressants may heighten heart side effects—use cautiously
• Other stimulants/bronchodilators can add to tremor/heart rate
  Always share your full meds and supplements list with your clinician.

Storage & Device Care

• Keep capsules in the blister until use; store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
• Use only the inhalation device intended for your capsules (Rotahaler/Breezhaler‑type depending on brand)
• Do not wash the capsule chamber with water; wipe the mouthpiece dry as per the leaflet
• Keep out of reach of children

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Airz a rescue medication?
   No. It’s a maintenance bronchodilator. For sudden symptoms, use your reliever inhaler (like salbutamol/levosalbutamol).
2. How fast will I feel relief?
   Many feel easier airflow within minutes, with full 24‑hour benefit after each daily dose.
3. Can I use it for asthma?
   Only if your doctor pairs it with an inhaled corticosteroid. LABA alone isn’t recommended in asthma.
4. What if I still need my reliever often?
   That’s a sign your condition isn’t controlled. Contact your clinician your plan may need a tweak.
5. Can I swallow the capsule?
   No, never. It’s for inhalation only, using the device in your pack.
6. Do I need to rinse my mouth?
   Rinsing helps reduce throat irritation and a dry taste. Swish and spit don’t swallow.
7. Is coffee okay?
   Yes, but too much caffeine can add to jitteriness or palpitations. Go easy if you notice shakiness.