Vilanterol

Uses of Vilanterol

Vilanterol is commonly used in combination with Umeclidinium or Fluticasone Furoate to treat Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

How Vilanterol Works

Vilanterol is a selective long-acting beta 2-adrenergic agonist which acts by stimulating intracellular adenylyl cyclase to catalyse the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cyclic-3’,5’-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), leading to bronchial smooth muscle relaxation and preventing the release of hypersensitivity mediators in the lungs.

Side Effects of Vilanterol

Allergy reaction, Reduced blood pressure, Tachycardia, Hypokalaemia, Hyperglycaemia, Altered bowel habit, Dry mouth, Abdominal pain, Muscle ache, Headache

Warnings

Kidney Safe If Prescribed

Vilanterol is safe to use in patients with kidney impairment.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to take Vilanterol and alcohol simultaneously as alcohol may accentuate effects such as tachycardia and lowering of blood pressure.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity but there are no data on the use of Vilanterol in pregnant women. Thus, Vilanterol is not advisable to be used unless the benefits outweigh the risks.

Driving Generally Safe

Vilanterol usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Limited Data

Vilanterol is safe to use in patients with liver impairment.

Lactation Limited Data

It is unknown whether Vilanterol is excreted in human milk but the other beta 2-adrenergic is known to secrete in human milk. Thus, the risk to breastfed babies cannot be excluded and a decision has to be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or medication depending on the benefit-risk ratio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).