Breo Ellipta (brand name) is a once‑daily maintenance inhaler that delivers two active drugs in one device:
| Active ingredient |
Class |
Role in treatment |
| Fluticasone furoate |
Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) |
Reduces airway inflammation |
| Umeclidinium |
Long‑acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) |
Provides bronchodilation (opens the airways) |
Together, they help improve breathing and reduce symptoms in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and, in some cases, asthma.
What’s the generic name?
The generic medication is called fluticasone furoate / umeclidinium (often abbreviated “F/U”). It contains exactly the same active ingredients, the same dose, and the same inhalation device as the brand‑name product.
- Brand‑name: Breo Ellipta (manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim)
- Generic: fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium inhalation powder, marketed under various brand names (e.g., Breo Ellipta‑generic, Fluticasone Umeclidinium, or simply Breo depending on the manufacturer).
In most countries, once the generic is approved, it can be purchased at a lower price because the manufacturer doesn’t have to pay for the brand‑name development and marketing.
Key similarities
| Feature |
Breo Ellipta (brand) |
Generic (fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium) |
| Active ingredients |
Same (F/U) |
Same (F/U) |
| Dose |
100 µg fluticasone furoate + 62.5 µg umeclidinium per puff |
Same |
| Delivery device |
Ellipta® dry‑powder inhaler |
Same (Ellipta® or an equivalent device) |
| Indications |
COPD maintenance; used off‑label for asthma |
Same |
| Pharmacokinetics |
Identical |
Identical (FDA/EMA bioequivalence required) |
Because generics must meet the same potency, safety, and purity standards, patients can expect the same therapeutic effect and side‑effect profile.
Why use the generic?
| Reason |
Details |
| Cost |
Generics are typically 15‑30 % cheaper in the U.S., and even lower in many other countries. |
| Coverage |
Many insurance plans cover the generic as the preferred drug, sometimes with a lower copay. |
| Availability |
Once approved, generics may be stocked in more pharmacies, improving access. |
How to use it
- Shake the inhaler gently before each use.
- Prime the inhaler if it’s new or hasn’t been used in a week (follow the instructions).
- Breathe in slowly while pressing the inhaler to release a puff.
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.
- Repeat on the second inhaler in the cartridge (if it has two inhalations per cartridge).
- Clean the mouthpiece with a damp cloth after each use.
Dose: One inhalation (two puffs) once daily, usually in the morning.
Possible side effects
- Common: Oral thrush, hoarseness, throat irritation, cough, headache.
- Less common: Infections, tremor, dizziness, increased heart rate (due to the bronchodilator).
- Rare: Allergic reactions, adrenal suppression (with high doses of steroids).
If you develop oral thrush or persistent hoarseness, rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation and, if needed, use a steroid‑flushing mouthwash.
Important safety reminders
- Use as prescribed: Don’t double‑dose to “make up” for a missed inhalation.
- Regular follow‑ups: Keep appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor lung function and adjust therapy.
- Inhaler technique: Poor technique can reduce drug delivery; ask your pharmacist to demonstrate proper use.
- Do not switch between brand and generic without medical advice, unless the drug’s label indicates they are interchangeable.
When to see a doctor
- Worsening breathlessness, frequent exacerbations, or new symptoms.
- Severe side effects such as a rash, fever, or shortness of breath that suggests an allergic reaction.
- If you’re unsure whether a generic is the same as your current brand.
Bottom line
The generic version of Breo Ellipta—fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium—provides the same benefits and safety profile as the brand‑name drug. It’s often more affordable and fully approved by regulatory bodies (FDA, EMA, etc.). If you’re considering switching or have questions about your specific prescription, talk with your pharmacist or prescribing clinician.