Dulera is a prescription inhaler that contains two active ingredients: mometasone furoate, a corticosteroid, and formoterol fumarate, a long-acting β2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). It belongs to the asthma and breathing therapeutic class and is available in a fixed-dose combination of 6 µg mometasone furoate / 200 µg formoterol fumarate per inhalation. In Hong Kong, Dulera is regulated by the Department of Health and is only supplied with a professional prescription.
Together, the anti-inflammatory action of mometasone and the bronchodilatory effect of formoterol provide both maintenance control of asthma symptoms and relief of occasional breathlessness.
Dulera is approved for the long-term, maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and adolescents (12 years and older) when a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a LABA is indicated. It is not intended for acute asthma attacks; a short-acting bronchodilator (e.g., salbutamol) should be used for sudden symptoms.
No high-quality evidence currently supports off-label uses of Dulera. Any consideration of non-approved indications must be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional and undertaken only under close supervision.
Absolute contraindications
Relative contraindications / cautions
Patients should always inform their healthcare provider of all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, herbal supplements, and vitamins they are taking.
Dosing must be individualized by a healthcare provider. The above regimen reflects the labeled strength (6/200 µg) and typical twice-daily schedule.
This article provides educational information about Dulera and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including use for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
No. Dulera is designed for maintenance therapy and does not act quickly enough for acute symptom relief. Patients should keep a short-acting bronchodilator, such as salbutamol, for rescue use.
A hoarse voice is a common local effect of inhaled corticosteroids. Rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation and consider using a spacer device to reduce throat exposure. If the symptom persists, discuss it with your prescriber.
Dulera does not impair exercise capacity and may improve airway stability during endurance activities. However, athletes should monitor for any unusual breathlessness or heart palpitations and report them promptly.
Prescription inhalers are allowed for personal use when accompanied by a valid prescription or a doctor's letter. Carry the medication in its original packaging and keep the prescription handy for customs inspection.
The inhaler’s dose counter shows the number of actuations remaining. When the counter reaches “0” or the inhaler feels loose after pressing, the medication is depleted and the device should be replaced.
Both contain an inhaled corticosteroid and a LABA, but they differ in the specific steroid (mometasone vs. fluticasone) and LABA (formoterol vs. salmeterol) as well as the fixed dose strengths. Choice of inhaler is guided by individual response, side-effect profile, and prescriber preference.
Yes. A spacer can improve drug deposition in the lungs and reduce oropharyngeal side effects, especially for patients who have difficulty coordinating inhalation.
The expiration date is printed on the inhaler canister. Do not use the medication past this date, as potency may decline and the device’s performance can be compromised.
Dulera contains mometasone (a corticosteroid) and formoterol (a LABA). These substances are not typically screened for in standard workplace drug panels, but athletes subject to anti-doping testing should verify compliance with relevant regulations.
Return the empty canister to a pharmacy that participates in medication take-back programs, or follow the Hong Kong Environmental Protection Department’s guidelines for safe disposal of pharmaceutical waste.
