Umeclidinium
Uses of Umeclidinium
Umeclidinium is commonly used to treat Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
How Umeclidinium Works
Umeclidinium is a long-acting anticholinergic which binds and inhibits muscarinic receptors especially M3 receptors which leads to bronchodilation.
Side Effects of Umeclidinium
Increase the risk of airway infections, Headache, Palpitation, Cough, Constipation, Allergy reaction
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Umeclidinium is safe to use in patients with kidney impairment.
Alcohol Safe
There is no known interaction between alcohol and Umeclidinium. However, chronic alcohol drinking may damage the cilia which help your lungs to expulse invading germs and also damages the immune system of your lungs. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies do not show any reproductive toxicities to the foetus and there are no data on the use of Umeclidinium in pregnant women. Thus, Umeclidinium is not advisable during pregnancy unless benefits overweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Generally Safe
Umeclidinium usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.
Liver Limited Data
Dose adjustment is not needed in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment. However, there are no data on the use of Umeclidinium in patients with severe liver impairment. Thus, caution use has to be practised in such patients. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Limited Data
It is unknown whether Umeclidinium is excreted in human milk and risks to breastfed babies cannot be excluded. Thus, the decision has to be made whether to discontinue the medication or breastfeeding based on the benefit-risk ratio. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
