Arnuity Ellipta (fluticasone furoate)

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: June 2023

Arnuity Ellipta (fluticasone furoate) is an inhaled steroid that reduces airway inflammation. It is used for long-term treatment of asthma for people 5 years of age and up.

Arnuity Ellipta cannot provide relief during an asthma attack. Use a rescue inhaler instead.

What are the ingredients in Arnuity Ellipta?

The active ingredient in Arnuity Ellipta is fluticasone furoate. This is a man-made (synthetic) version of a steroid. Steroids are natural body chemicals that reduce inflammation.1

How does Arnuity Ellipta work?

Steroids like Arnuity Ellipta improve asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation. After inhaling the dry powder, Arnuity Ellipta activates a protein in your cells called a glucocorticoid receptor. These receptors increase anti-inflammatory proteins and chemicals in your body.2

What are the possible side effects?

Possible side effects of Arnuity Ellipta include:1,2

  • Allergic reactions
  • Increased wheezing (bronchospasm)
  • Low bone density
  • Slow growth in children
  • Eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts
  • Runny nose and sore throat
  • Headache
  • Breathing problems (bronchitis)
  • Flu

Inhaled corticosteroids like Arnuity Ellipta can cause thrush. This is a fungal infection in the mouth and throat. Rinse your mouth after inhaling Arnuity Ellipta to help prevent thrush. Contact your doctor if you notice symptoms of thrush, such as:1,2

  • Throat discomfort or pain
  • Hoarse voice
  • Red or white patches in your mouth

Corticosteroids can weaken your immune system. This increases your risk of getting an infection. Avoid contact with people who have chickenpox, measles, or other contagious diseases. Call your doctor if you show symptoms of an infection, such as:1,2

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Aches and pains
  • Chills
  • Nausea and vomiting

Arnuity Ellipta can make current infections worse. Tell your doctor about any active infections, including TB or herpes simplex virus.1,2

These are not all the possible side effects of Arnuity Ellipta. Talk to your doctor about what to expect when taking Arnuity Ellipta. You also should call your doctor if you have any changes that concern you when taking Arnuity Ellipta.

Other things to know

Take Arnuity Ellipta as your doctor describes. They will show you how to use, store, and clean your inhaler. Take it once a day by oral inhalation, at the same time every day.1,2

Your doctor will determine your dose based on age, asthma severity, and other drugs. You may not notice improvement in symptoms for a few weeks after starting treatment. Once symptoms improve, your doctor may lower your dose to reduce the risk of side effects.1,2

If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks, your doctor may increase your dosage. Do not stop using Arnuity Ellipta unless your doctor tells you to. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.1,2

Do not use Arnuity Ellipta if:1,2

  • You are trying to treat an acute asthma attack
  • You have allergies to milk proteins
  • You are allergic to any ingredients in Arnuity Ellipta

Arnuity Ellipta may interfere with other drugs or worsen certain conditions. Tell your doctor if you:1,2

  • Have had any problems with your liver, eyes, immune system, or bone health
  • Have any current infections
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

Before beginning treatment for asthma, tell your doctor about all your health conditions and any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you are taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs.

For more information, read the full prescribing information for Arnuity Ellipta.

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