What is a Trixeo inhaler?
Trixeo Aerosphere is the brand name for a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI). It is a fixed-dose, triple-combination therapy used as a long-term maintenance treatment for adults with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is not for sudden breathing problems.
COPD is a progressive lung disease characterized by obstructed airflow. Trixeo's triple combination addresses this by managing inflammation and improving airflow.
The components of a Trixeo inhaler
Trixeo Aerosphere contains three active medications:
- Budesonide: An inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) reducing lung inflammation.
- Formoterol Fumarate: A long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) bronchodilator that relaxes airway muscles.
- Glycopyrronium: A long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) bronchodilator also relaxing airway muscles.
How the Trixeo inhaler works
The three components improve lung function, relieve symptoms, and prevent COPD flare-ups. This triple therapy offers a convenient and effective approach.
- Reduces inflammation: Budesonide targets chronic airway inflammation.
- Relaxes airway muscles: Formoterol and glycopyrronium widen airways by relaxing surrounding muscles.
- Provides long-term symptom control: The prolonged effects offer sustained relief and prevent exacerbations, making it suitable for regular treatment.
Who is the Trixeo inhaler for?
Trixeo is for adults with moderate to severe COPD not adequately controlled by dual therapy, particularly those with a history of exacerbations despite previous treatment.
When is Trixeo prescribed?
Healthcare providers may prescribe Trixeo for patients with moderate to severe COPD who have experienced exacerbations or continue to have significant symptoms on dual therapy, based on clinical evidence supporting its benefits in improving lung function and reducing flare-ups.
How to properly use and clean the inhaler
Correct technique ensures medication delivery. Your doctor or pharmacist will demonstrate use, and a spacer can help with coordination.
How to use:
- Shake well and remove the cap.
- Exhale fully.
- Seal lips around the mouthpiece.
- Inhale slowly and deeply while pressing the canister.
- Hold breath for up to 10 seconds.
- Administer the prescribed number of puffs, with a pause if directed.
- Rinse mouth with water and spit to prevent oral thrush.
How to clean (weekly):
- Remove the canister from the actuator.
- Rinse the actuator top and bottom with warm water for 30 seconds each.
- Shake off excess water and air-dry overnight.
- Reassemble and re-prime with the recommended number of test sprays once dry.
Comparison: Trixeo Aerosphere vs. Trelegy Ellipta
| Feature | Trixeo Aerosphere (Budesonide/Glycopyrronium/Formoterol) | Trelegy Ellipta (Fluticasone/Umeclidinium/Vilanterol) |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | ICS + LABA + LAMA | ICS + LABA + LAMA |
| Active Ingredients | Budesonide, Glycopyrronium, Formoterol | Fluticasone, Umeclidinium, Vilanterol |
| Delivery System | Pressurized Metered-Dose Inhaler (pMDI) | Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI) |
| Dosing Schedule | Administered as directed by a healthcare provider | Administered as directed by a healthcare provider |
| Adherence Considerations | Requires coordinated inhalation, spacer use possible. | Breath-activated, may suit some patients better. |
| Effectiveness | Shown to improve lung function and reduce exacerbations. | Clinically comparable effectiveness and safety. |
| Environmental Impact | Low-carbon propellant version available in some regions. | Available with lower-carbon propellants. |
| Individual Experience | Response varies; some may prefer based on experience. | Once-daily dosing may aid adherence for some. |
Potential side effects
Trixeo can cause side effects. Common ones from trials include pneumonia, headache, and urinary tract infections. Discuss risks with your provider.
Less common effects may include oral thrush (prevented by rinsing mouth), palpitations, tremor, anxiety, dry mouth, hoarse voice, or muscle cramps.
A serious, though rare, side effect is paradoxical bronchospasm, a sudden worsening of breathing. Seek immediate medical help if this occurs. Consult the patient leaflet and resources like the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for full side effect information.
Conclusion
The Trixeo inhaler is a single-inhaler, fixed-dose triple therapy for maintenance treatment of moderate to severe COPD in adults. It combines a corticosteroid and two bronchodilators to address inflammation and airflow obstruction. Its convenience and proven effectiveness make it a valuable option for patients needing multi-component therapy to manage symptoms and reduce exacerbations. Proper usage and cleaning are vital for optimal results and minimizing side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine if Trixeo is appropriate and to confirm correct inhaler technique.
