Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium) — what it is and how it helps

If you or someone you care for uses Incruse Ellipta, this short guide gives the practical facts: what it does, how to use it right, common side effects, and safety tips. Incruse Ellipta contains umeclidinium, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) used once daily to help control chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It’s not a rescue inhaler — it helps keep airways open over time.

How Incruse works and who should use it

Umeclidinium relaxes the muscles around the airways so breathing is easier. Doctors prescribe it for people with COPD to reduce flare-ups and improve daily breathing. If you have sudden wheeze or severe breathlessness, use your rescue inhaler and call your doctor — don’t use Incruse for emergencies.

Standard dose is one inhalation (55 mcg) once a day with the Ellipta device. Do not take extra doses if symptoms get worse — talk to your healthcare provider instead.

How to use the Ellipta device (easy steps)

1. Open the cover until it clicks. 2. Exhale away from the mouthpiece (don’t breathe into it). 3. Put the mouthpiece between your lips and inhale steadily and deeply. 4. Hold your breath for 3–4 seconds, then remove the inhaler and breathe out slowly. 5. Close the cover. You don’t need to shake the device. If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist to show you once.

Don’t rinse your mouth after Incruse — it’s not a steroid. If you use multiple inhalers, follow your doctor’s order on spacing and sequence.

Common side effects include dry mouth, constipation, sore throat, and urinary retention in people prone to it. Less common but serious issues: sudden eye pain or vision changes (angle-closure glaucoma) and trouble peeing. If you notice sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or can’t urinate, seek care quickly.

A few safety pointers: tell your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostate problems, heart disease, or a history of allergic reactions to inhaler ingredients (Ellipta contains small amounts of lactose and could matter if you have a severe milk-protein allergy). Avoid combining multiple anticholinergic drugs unless your prescriber approves, as effects can add up.

Missed a dose? Take the next scheduled dose. Don’t double up. Store the inhaler in a dry place below 30°C (86°F) and keep it away from direct heat and children.

If you want more on inhalers or related treatments, check our site for articles like Advair Diskus: Asthma Management & Inhaler Insights. And always check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before changing anything about your inhaler routine.

Questions about side effects or how Incruse fits with other meds? Ask your doctor — and bring the inhaler or its leaflet to appointments so you both see exactly what you’re using.