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Acute Asthma Attack. Taking Medicines Since Three Months. Safe?
My father (73 years old) had an acute asthma attack in December and was prescribed theoasthalin (1/2, -, ½), dfcort-6 (1, -, -) and Dilzem – 30 (1, -, 1) dosage in parenthesis. He has been taking these 3 medicines for the past 3 months (dec to march) Is it ok to take these medicines for such a long time? What are the effects and should I ask for a change in medicines?
Mon, 25 Mar 2013
From your question it appears that your fathers disease started 3 months back.
It is very unlikely for someone to get asthma at 73 years of age.
If your father developed breathlessness and cough 3 months back , the possibilities are pulmonary oedema ( cardiac failure ) or COPD ( chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Regarding safety of the medicines
Theoasthalin - many patients in India are taking it for decades
possible side effects -- tremor , increased heart rate , palpitation, acidity, low potassiumin blood( can lead to muscle cramps)
Deflozacort - It is a steroid and long term usage is avoided as far as possible. However do not stop it abruptly.
As your father is 73 year old and been taking it for 3 months , its dose will have to reduced gradually to stop. But in some patients long term usage at lowest possible dose will be required.
possible side effects - diabetes , hypertension, acidity, ulcer , weak bones, puffiness of face , fungal infections , glaucoma , cataract
Diltiazem - is usually tolerated in long term use
possible side effects - edema , dizziness
Discuss with your doctor regarding changing from defcort to alternatives like metered dose inhaler with spacer
It is very unlikely for someone to get asthma at 73 years of age.
If your father developed breathlessness and cough 3 months back , the possibilities are pulmonary oedema ( cardiac failure ) or COPD ( chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Regarding safety of the medicines
Theoasthalin - many patients in India are taking it for decades
possible side effects -- tremor , increased heart rate , palpitation, acidity, low potassiumin blood( can lead to muscle cramps)
Deflozacort - It is a steroid and long term usage is avoided as far as possible. However do not stop it abruptly.
As your father is 73 year old and been taking it for 3 months , its dose will have to reduced gradually to stop. But in some patients long term usage at lowest possible dose will be required.
possible side effects - diabetes , hypertension, acidity, ulcer , weak bones, puffiness of face , fungal infections , glaucoma , cataract
Diltiazem - is usually tolerated in long term use
possible side effects - edema , dizziness
Discuss with your doctor regarding changing from defcort to alternatives like metered dose inhaler with spacer
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