section name header

Pronunciation

moe-MET-a-sone

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antiasthmatics, corticosteroids

Pharmacologic Classification: corticosteroids (inhalation)

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Potent, locally acting anti-inflammatory and immune modifier.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Decreased frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
  • Improved asthma symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: <1%; action is primarily local after inhalation.

Distribution: 10–25% is deposited in airways if a spacer device is not used. All cross the placenta and enter breast milk in small amounts.

Metabolism/Excretion: Primarily metabolized by the liver via the CYP3A4 isoenzyme after absorption from lungs; 75% excreted in feces.

Half-Life: 5 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(improvement in symptoms)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
Inhalationwithin 24 hr1–4 wkunknown



Improvement in pulmonary function; airway responsiveness may take longer.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

EENT: dysphonia, hoarseness, cataracts, glaucoma, nasal congestion, oropharyngeal candidiasis, pharyngitis, sinusitis

Endo: bone mineral density, adrenal suppression ( dose, long-term therapy only), growth (children)

GI: diarrhea, dry mouth, dyspepsia, nausea, taste disturbances

MS: back pain

Neuro: headache, agitation, depression, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, restlessness

Resp: bronchospasm, cough, wheezing

Misc: CHURG-STRAUSS SYNDROME, HYPERSENSITIVITY REACTIONS ,(INCLUDING ANAPHYLAXIS, LARYNGEAL EDEMA, URTICARIA, AND BRONCHOSPASM)

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Asmanex HFA

Asmanex Twisthaler

Availability

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Asmanex HFA, Asmanex Twisthaler