How Stalpex^® works

Doctors may follow treatment guidelines, to ensure every patient is on the most
suitable treatments for them. Stalpex is a medicine that doctors can prescribe for
people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).¹

Stalpex is a treatment containing two medicines in one inhaler: salmeterol xinafoate
and fluticasone propionate. Its effect on the lungs lasts for at least 12 hours.¹

Taken every day as directed by a doctor,
Stalpex helps prevent breathlessness
and wheezing from coming on.¹
Stalpex comes in an inhaler, which
contains 60 pre-dispensed doses of the
medicine, equivalent to 60 inhalations.¹

Using Stalpex¹

Always use Stalpex exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.
Check with them if you are not sure
Use your Stalpex every day until your doctor advises you to stop.
Do not take more than the recommended dose
Do not stop taking Stalpex or reduce the dose without talking to your doctor first
Stalpex should be inhaled through the mouth into the lungs

Important things to remember about taking Stalpex

Make sure you use the inhaler correctly so you are getting the right treatment dose
Take it every day as prescribed, even if you’re feeling well and have no symptoms
Do not stop treatment, unless under medical advice
Stalpex should not be used to relieve a sudden attack of breathlessness or wheezing. If this
happens you need to use a fast-acting ‘reliever’ (‘rescue’) inhaler, such as salbutamol¹

If you have any questions about your medication, talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist

How to use your inhaler

When you take your Stalpex medication, it is important to know
how to use your inhaler properly.

Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist will show you how to do this
and will check regularly that you are using your inhaler correctly.

You will also find instructions on the pharmacy label and in the
Patient Information Leaflet.

If you are unsure about anything or experience any problems
inhaling, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for advice.

Stalpex demonstration video

Using your inhaler – a step by step guide¹

Your Stalpex inhaler holds blisters containing a powder. There is a counter at the top that tells you how many doses are left. It counts down to 0. The numbers 5 to 0 appear
with a black dot to warn you that there are only a few doses left. Once the counter shows 0, your inhaler is empty.

To open your Stalpex inhaler, hold the outer
case in one hand and put the thumb of your
other hand on the thumb grip. Push your thumb
away from you as far as it will go. You will hear
a click. This will open a small hole in the
mouthpiece.
Hold your Stalpex inhaler with the mouthpiece
towards you. You can hold it in either your right
or left hand. Slide the lever away from you as far
as it will go. You will hear a click. This places
a dose of your medicine in the mouthpiece.

Every time the lever is pulled back a blister is
opened inside and the powder made ready for
you to inhale. Do not play with the lever as
this opens the blisters and wastes
medicine.
Hold your Stalpex inhaler away from your mouth,
breathe out as far as is comfortable. Do not
breathe into your Stalpex inhaler.
Put the mouthpiece to your lips; breathe in
steadily and deeply through your Stalpex inhaler,
not through your nose.

Remove your Stalpex inhaler from your mouth.

Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or for
as long as is comfortable.

Breathe out slowly.
Afterwards, rinse your mouth with water and
spit it out, and/or brush your teeth. This may
help to stop you getting thrush and becoming
hoarse.
To close the Stalpex inhaler, slide the thumb grip
back towards you, as far as it will go. You will
hear a click. The lever will return to its original
position and is reset.

Your Stalpex inhaler is now ready for you to
use again.

Cleaning and storing your inhaler

Frequently asked questions

What is Stalpex?¹

Stalpex contains two medicines. One is salmeterol xinafoate, which is a long-acting bronchodilator. Bronchodilators help the airways in the lungs stay open, making it easier for air to get in and out. The effects last for at least 12 hours. The other is fluticasone propionate, a corticosteroid which reduces swelling and irritation in the lungs.
How do I use Stalpex?¹

Always use your inhaler exactly as your doctor, nurse or pharmacist has told you, and check with them if you are not sure. Step by step instructions on using your inhaler can be found here and in the Patient Information Leaflet. It is very important to use your Stalpex inhaler regularly and not to stop treatment even if you feel better, unless your doctor, nurse or pharmacist tells you to do this.
What if I forgot to take Stalpex¹

If you forget to use Stalpex, do not take a double dose to make up for it. Just take your next dose at the usual time. Other things to remember about your Stalpex dose:
- If you accidentally take a larger dose than recommended, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
- Do not stop or suddenly reduce your Stalpex dose, as this could make your breathing worse.
What can I expect with Stalpex?¹

Stalpex helps to stop breathlessness and wheeziness coming on. However, it should not be used to relieve a sudden attack of breathlessness or wheezing. If this happens, you need to use a fast-acting ‘reliever’ (or ‘rescue’) inhaler, which you should always have with you.
Why is it important to have
a good inhaler technique?¹

Your prescription for Stalpex has been calculated by your doctor or nurse to suit your needs. Good inhaler technique is important and it helps you breathe the medicine straight into your lungs, where it's needed to give you the best chance of managing your symptoms.²
How do I store and clean my inhaler?¹

As with all medicines, keep out of the sight and reach of children. Store it below 30°C in the original package to protect it from moisture. Your inhaler can be cleaned by wiping the mouthpiece with a dry tissue after use.

Important – please read the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine.
You can also download it here.

Useful links

Managing your condition – information and support groups

Asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) are long-term conditions that
can be challenging to live with, but there is plenty of support available. Here are some
links to a few useful UK sites:

Welcome to www.stalpex.co.uk, where you can find information about your medicine and howto use it.

How Stalpex® works

Using Stalpex1