New to Fostair 100/6

[Misha789]

Hi everyone. Just looking for advice! I’ve started on a new inhaler (from seretide to fostair). My consultant has told me to take 2 puffs 4x a day for 2 weeks, then 2 puffs 3x a day for 2 weeks then eventually 2 puffs twice a day then possibly a little less. I’m just wondering if I’m having side effects that anyone else has experienced... I have been feeling very weak and shaky, usually about 10 mins after puffs but it on and off all day. Has anyone else experienced that? Also my heart starts racing on and off all day. Are these things normal? Will they eventually go the longer I’m on this inhaler? I also know it also can lower your immune system at first and I think I have a cold sore as a result (I very rarely get cold sores) and some of my lymph nodes are swollen too. Has anyone experienced any of this??? If they side effects or just coincidence?

[twinkly29]

I suspect it will be because you're on a high daily dose at the moment. Which dose inhaler are you on, 100/6 or 200/6? The effects should be much less/not noticeable once you're on it just twice a day - where are you in the plan your consultant set out?

The immune system thing I've not heard of specific to starting Fostair, but inhaled steroids don't affect the immune system in the same way as prolonged courses of oral steroids so I wouldn't worry about that side of things.

[Paintingmakesmehappy in reply to twinkly29]

Hi

Side effects due to higher dose of formoterol ( long acting bronchodilator) it would be worthwhile speaking to your consultant... they will reduce with less drug. You should be followed up after a change in your medications either by consultant or GP. Sounds like he has a plan but probably needs a review. Horrid when you get the racing heart ... good luck 😉

[Gareth57]

Hi, I use the 100/6 inhaler and get those same reactions on the higher doses, but on the normal 2x twice a day I’m fine so would expect you to be as well 👍

[Hidden]

Hello

I was put on this a year ago and I find especially if I leave the last dose late at night I am waking up with what feels like palpitations or a missed heart beat and it is awful

I started to think there was something wrong with my heart yet I never had this before taking this inhaler

I was going to do a similar post till I saw yours and decided to reply instead

I have read it can settle down but after a year for me like I said if I leave the last dose late at night this is what happens

I am going to have to mention it now , but I always feel I get fobbed of

Sorry you are experiencing this and as others say as the dose gets less the symptoms possibly could to but a relief to know it is not just me having these issues and I am down to the 100 dose two puffs twice a day , I was on 200 two puffs twice a day which gave me awful thrush in my mouth

Hope it all settles down for you soon

Take Care x