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Incruse Ellipta vs Trelegy Ellipta

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Overview

Incruse Ellipta Details

Trelegy Ellipta Details

Effectiveness

Dosage Information

Side Effects

Safety Information

Cost

Market Information

Introduction

For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), certain medications can help to alleviate symptoms and improve lung function. Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta are two such drugs often prescribed for this condition. Both of these medications work by relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs, thus making it easier for patients to breathe. Incruse Ellipta is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) that works by blocking acetylcholine on M3 receptors in the smooth muscle of the lungs causing bronchodilation, improving airflow to the lungs. On the other hand, Trelegy Ellipta has a triple action mechanism as it contains fluticasone furoate, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid; umeclidinium, a LAMA like Incruse; and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) which all together reduce inflammation and relaxes muscles in the airways for better breathing.

Incruse Ellipta vs Trelegy Ellipta Side By Side

AttributeIncruse elliptaTrelegy ellipta
Brand NameIncruse ElliptaTrelegy Ellipta
ContraindicationsSevere allergies to milk proteins, allergic reaction to umeclidinium bromideSevere allergies to milk proteins, allergic reaction to fluticasone furoate, umeclidinium, vilanterol
CostAround $400 for 30 dosesAbout $600 for 30 doses
Generic NameUmeclidiniumFluticasone furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol
Most Serious Side EffectSigns of an allergic reaction, symptoms of pneumonia, rapid heart rate, convulsions, high blood sugar levels, blurred vision and eye pain due to acute narrow-angle glaucoma, low potassium levelsSigns of an allergic reaction, high blood sugar, low potassium level, worsening lung symptoms, chest pain and fast or pounding heartbeats, blurred vision and seeing halos around lights, eye pain or redness
Severe Drug InteractionsBeta-blockers, anticholinergics, diureticsBeta-blockers, anticholinergics, diuretics
Typical Dose62.5 mcg/dayFluticasone furoate 100 mcg, umeclidinium 62.5 mcg, vilanterol 25 mcg per day

What is Incruse Ellipta?

Umeclidinium (the generic name for Incruse Ellipta) is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), and it represents an important advancement from the first class of COPD treatment drugs. Umeclidinium was first approved by the FDA in 2014. Incruse Ellipta works by relaxing and opening the air passages to the lungs, making it easier to breathe, thus effectively improving lung function over time. It is prescribed for the maintenance treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

On the other hand, Trelegy Ellipta contains three medicines: fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid; umeclidinium, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist; and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist. This combination medicine caters to different aspects of COPD management in one inhaler which makes it more convenient but also has potential side effects associated with each component.

Incruse Ellipta focuses mainly on blocking acetylcholine activity reducing bronchoconstriction with minimal systemic side effects while Trelegy affects not only acetylcholine activity but also reduces inflammation and relaxes muscles around airways potentially having broader range of side effects due to its multiple components.

What conditions is Incruse Ellipta approved to treat?

Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta are both approved for the treatment of different conditions related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD):

  • Incruse Ellipta is a long-acting bronchodilator used as maintenance therapy in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema.

  • Trelegy Ellipta, on the other hand, combines three medications: fluticasone furoate (steroid), umeclidinium (long-acting muscarinic antagonist), and vilanterol (long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist). It's indicated for maintenance treatment of patients with COPD who are not adequately controlled by a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long acting muscarinic antagonist or who have frequent exacerbations.

How does Incruse Ellipta help with these illnesses?

Incruse Ellipta works to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by relaxing the muscles around the airways in the lungs. It does this via an active ingredient called umeclidinium, which is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist. This means it blocks acetylcholine's action, a neurotransmitter that can constrict smooth muscle tissue and stimulate mucus production. By blocking these effects, Incruse Ellipta helps to keep airways open and reduce mucus, improving breathing for those with COPD.

Trelegy Ellipta also manages COPD but is more comprehensive because it uses three different types of medication: fluticasone furoate (an anti-inflammatory steroid), umeclidinium bromide (the same long-acting muscarinic antagonist found in Incruse Ellipta), and vilanterol (a long-acting beta agonist that relaxes the muscles of the airways). Therefore, Trelegy combines bronchodilation with inflammation reduction — providing relief from symptoms while also treating an underlying cause of COPD.

What is Trelegy Ellipta?

Trelegy Ellipta is a branded combination of three active compounds: fluticasone furoate, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) to reduce inflammation; umeclidinium, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) that helps muscles around the airways stay relaxed; and vilanterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that works similarly to LAMAs. This triple-action therapy was first approved by the FDA in 2017 for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Unlike Incruse Ellipta which contains only one compound — umeclidinium — Trelegy has an additional benefit due to its comprehensive action on different aspects of COPD pathology. This means it can provide more symptom control and improve lung function significantly better than single or dual therapies like Incruse Ellipta. However, common side effects are similar between both medications, which may include upper respiratory tract infection, coughing and mouth/throat pain. The extra components of Trelegy could possibly contribute to more diverse systemic adverse events such as high blood pressure or fast/irregular heartbeats.

What conditions is Trelegy Ellipta approved to treat?

Trelegy Ellipta is approved for the management of certain respiratory conditions such as:

  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Asthma that has been inadequately controlled with a long-term asthma control medicine,

It's important to note that it is not used to relieve sudden symptoms of COPD or asthma and won't replace a rescue inhaler.

How does Trelegy Ellipta help with these illnesses?

Trelegy Ellipta, like Incruse Ellipta, is a medication used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It works by dilating the airways and reducing inflammation, thereby improving lung function and reducing symptoms such as shortness of breath. Trelegy contains three active ingredients - fluticasone furoate (an anti-inflammatory steroid), umeclidinium (a bronchodilator), and vilanterol (a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist) that work together to open up the airways for easier breathing. This triple-action approach may make it more effective in controlling COPD symptoms than single or dual therapy options like Incruse Ellipta which only contains one component, umeclidinium bromide. Hence, Trelegy might be prescribed when a patient does not respond well to “typical” monotherapy or dual therapy treatments for COPD.

How effective are both Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta?

Both Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium) and Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol) are medications that have been approved by the FDA for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They were introduced to the market within a few years of each other, with Incruse being licensed in 2014 and Trelegy in 2017. Both drugs work to improve lung function, although they do so through different mechanisms.

Incruse is an anticholinergic bronchodilator which acts on specific receptors in the lungs to relax smooth muscles and increase airflow. Trelegy combines this same mechanism with two additional components: an inhaled corticosteroid called fluticasone furoate, which reduces inflammation; and vilanterol, a long-acting beta-2 agonist that helps keep airways open.

A double-blind clinical trial conducted in 2020 compared these drugs head-to-head over a period of four weeks. The study found no significant differences between them concerning their ability to improve lung function or quality of life scores among patients taking them regularly.

However, it's worth noting that since Trelegy contains three active ingredients instead of just one as seen with Incruse, it may offer added benefits for some individuals such as those experiencing persistent symptoms despite maximal therapy with dual therapies like LABA/LAMA or ICS/LABA combinations. However, given its triple-action nature, there might be slightly more potential side effects associated with using Trelegy than Incruse due to the inclusion of fluticasone furoate – mainly oral thrush or pneumonias.

Overall both Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta have shown effectiveness at improving COPD symptoms but your healthcare provider would evaluate patient’s individual situation - severity and control level of symptoms along with any co-morbidities before deciding upon whether monotherapy like incruse ellipta could suffice or if there is need for combination treatment like trelogy ellipta.

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At what dose is Incruse Ellipta typically prescribed?

Inhaled doses for Incruse Ellipta are 62.5 mcg/day, typically sufficient for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. There is no need to adjust the dosage or increase it over time, and undergoing a consistent therapy should lead to improvement. On the other hand, Trelegy Ellipta offers three active ingredients at dosages of fluticasone furoate 100 mcg, umeclidinium 62.5 mcg and vilanterol 25 mcg per day for COPD management in adults. This combination therapy can provide better relief than single or dual therapies alone in some patients but should be used when less medication does not adequately control symptoms. Neither drug is recommended nor studied sufficiently in children or adolescents; therefore, they should not be used in these populations.

At what dose is Trelegy Ellipta typically prescribed?

Trelegy Ellipta treatment is typically initiated with a dosage of one inhalation daily. The medication contains three active ingredients: fluticasone furoate (100 mcg), umeclidinium bromide (62.5 mcg) and vilanterol trifenatate (25 mcg) per dose. This dosage does not need to be divided or spaced out throughout the day as it's designed for once-daily use. It's important to note that this is the maximum recommended dose, which should not exceed more than one inhalation in a 24-hour period even if there appears to be no initial response after several weeks of treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

What are the most common side effects for Incruse Ellipta?

Common side effects that may arise when using Incruse Ellipta include:

  • Upper respiratory tract infection
  • Throat irritation
  • Runny nose (rhinorrhea)
  • Cough
  • Oral candidiasis (yeast infection in the mouth or throat)
  • Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinus cavities in the head)
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Headache

On the other hand, Trelegy Ellipta can cause side effects like:

-Pneumonia -Thrush in your mouth and throat (oral candidiasis) -Bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infection -Viral respiratory infections such as flu or common colds -Cough, sore throat, hoarseness, voice changes -Difficulty speaking due to a change in vocal cord function(dysphonia)
-Urinary tract infections.

Remember always to consult with your healthcare provider for potential side effects before starting any new medication.

abstract image of a patient experiencing side effect

Are there any potential serious side effects for Incruse Ellipta?

While both Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta are effective in treating COPD symptoms, they may cause different side effects:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Symptoms of pneumonia: fever, chills, chest discomfort or pain when you breathe deeply or cough
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia), chest pain (angina) or palpitations
  • Convulsions (seizures)
  • High blood sugar levels which can cause increased thirst and urination
  • Blurred vision and eye pain due to acute narrow-angle glaucoma. This can be associated with eye redness and discomfort, nausea or vomiting.
  • Low potassium levels which can lead to muscle weakness, spasms or abnormal heart rhythm

If you experience any of these serious side effects while using either Incruse Ellipta or Trelegy Ellipta medications for your COPD treatment plan seek immediate medical attention.

What are the most common side effects for Trelegy Ellipta?

When taking Trelegy Ellipta, some common side effects may include:

  • Dry mouth or throat irritation
  • Upper respiratory tract infection, causing stuffy nose and sore throat
  • Changes in voice or hoarseness
  • Headache or dizziness
  • Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Muscle spasms or joint pain
  • Rash on the skin It's important to note that these side effects are usually mild and manageable. However, if they persist or worsen over time, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

Are there any potential serious side effects for Trelegy Ellipta?

While Trelegy Ellipta is generally well-tolerated, it's essential to be aware of potential serious side effects. These could include:

  • Signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat
  • High blood sugar – increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth or fruity breath odor
  • Low potassium level – leg cramps, constipation, irregular heartbeats fluttering in your chest;
  • Worsening lung symptoms - wheezing and trouble breathing right after using the medicine
  • Chest pain and fast or pounding heartbeats;
  • Blurred vision and seeing halos around lights;
  • Eye pain or redness - new signs of infection (painful urination), sores on your skin.

If you experience any of these symptoms while taking Trelegy Ellipta, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. Remember that this medication should be used as directed by a healthcare professional.

Contraindications for Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta?

With Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta, as with other inhalation medications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), some people may experience a worsening of their symptoms. If your shortness of breath or other COPD symptoms intensify after using these drugs, please seek immediate medical attention.

Neither Trelegy Ellipta nor Incruse Ellipta should be used if you are currently taking certain types of medicines like beta-blockers, anticholinergics or diuretics without consulting your doctor. Certain drug interactions can lead to serious side effects such as irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure. Always tell your healthcare provider about any medications that you're currently on; they will guide you accordingly to prevent harmful interactions with Trelegy or Incruse Ellipta.

Moreover, both these treatments aren't recommended for individuals who have severe allergies to milk proteins or who have had an allergic reaction to either umeclidinium, vilanterol, fluticasone furoate (ingredients in Trelegy) or umeclidinium bromide (ingredient in Incruse).

How much do Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta cost?

For the brand name versions of these drugs:

  • The price for 30 doses of Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium bromide, 62.5 mcg per dose) averages around $400, which works out to approximately $13/day.
  • The price for a month's supply (30 doses) of Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol, 100/62.5/25 mcg per dose) is about $600, equating to roughly $20/day.

Thus, if you are using these inhalers as directed (i.e., one inhalation per day), then brand-name Incruse Ellipta is less expensive on a per-day treatment basis than brand-name Trelegy Ellipta. It should be noted that cost shouldn't be your primary consideration in determining which of these medications is right for you.

Currently there are no generic versions available for either Incruse or Trelegy due to patent protection laws. As such drug prices remain high compared to other long-term treatments where generics exist. Always discuss with your healthcare provider what options best suit your needs and financial circumstances.

Popularity of Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta

Incruse Ellipta and Trelegy Ellipta are both medications used in the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

In 2020, Incruse Ellipta was prescribed to about 1 million people in the US. This medication is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), which relaxes and opens up the airways making it easier for COPD patients to breathe. Its use has been generally increasing since its introduction.

On the other hand, Trelegy Ellipta is a combination therapy containing three active ingredients: an inhaled corticosteroid, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA), and a LAMA. It provides broader control of COPD symptoms compared to single or dual therapy options. In 2020, approximately 2 million prescriptions were made for Trelegy Ellipta in the USA, accounting for nearly one fourth of triple therapy prescriptions for COPD during that year.

Conclusion

Both Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium) and Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol) are used in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They have been proven effective by numerous clinical studies and meta-analyses, showing better results than placebo treatments. Both medications consist of long-acting bronchodilators that help to open up the airways, but while Incruse contains a single active ingredient, umeclidinium bromide, Trelegy is a triple therapy which combines fluticasone furoate (an anti-inflammatory steroid), umeclidinium bromide (a muscarinic antagonist), and vilanterol trifenatate (a beta2-adrenergic agonist).

Due to their different compositions, these two drugs tend to be prescribed under different circumstances. Incruse might be considered as a first-line treatment option for COPD patients who need maintenance bronchodilation without an inhaled corticosteroid or additional long-acting beta2 agonist. On the other hand, Trelegy would typically be recommended for more severe cases or patients with frequent exacerbations despite dual therapy.

Both medications may require some time before effects become noticeable due to their mechanisms of action building over time. Side effect profiles are similar between both drugs—common side effects include upper respiratory tract infection, coughing and mouth/throat pain—but it is worth noting that due to its corticosteroid content, Trelegy can lead to additional side effects such as pneumonia or thrush in the mouth and throat.

Patients using either medication should monitor any changes in symptoms closely when beginning treatment; if they notice worsening breathlessness or sudden shortness of breath immediately after dosing they should seek medical help right away.

Refrences

  • Siler, T. M., Kerwin, E., Sousa, A. R., Donald, A., Ali, R., & Church, A. (2015, September). Efficacy and safety of umeclidinium added to fluticasone furoate/vilanterol in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Results of two randomized studies. Respiratory Medicine. Elsevier BV.http://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2015.06.006
  • Kelly, E. (2014, June 7). Umeclidinium bromide and vilanterol in combination for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.1586/17512433.2014.926812
  • Segreti, A., Calzetta, L., Rogliani, P., & Cazzola, M. (2014, October 14). Umeclidinium for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.1586/17476348.2014.962519
  • Ramadan, W. H., Al Masri, S., & Rizk, J. (2019, September 2). Fixed‐dose combination of umeclidinium and vilanterol for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review. The Clinical Respiratory Journal. Wiley.http://doi.org/10.1111/crj.13073
  • Bremner, P. R., Birk, R., Brealey, N., Ismaila, A. S., Zhu, C.-Q., & Lipson, D. A. (2018, January 25). Single-inhaler fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol versus fluticasone furoate/vilanterol plus umeclidinium using two inhalers for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomized non-inferiority study. Respiratory Research. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.1186/s12931-018-0724-0