quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule - Salmeterol (50mcg) + Fluticasone Propionate (250mcg) medicine

Airtec SF 50mcg/250mcg Instacap: Complete Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for asthma and COPD maintenance.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
Related Clinical Tools & Lab Test Analyzers
View All 26 Tools →

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Sudden worsening of breathing or wheezing immediately after use
  • Severe allergic reaction with rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Signs of adrenal insufficiency: extreme fatigue, weakness, dizziness
  • High blood sugar symptoms: increased thirst, frequent urination, confusion
  • Fever, chills, or worsening cough with yellow or green sputum

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule used for?

This medicine is a combination inhaler containing salmeterol and fluticasone propionate. It is used for long-term maintenance treatment of asthma and COPD. It should not be used for sudden breathing attacks.

  • Generic Name: Salmeterol (50mcg) + Fluticasone Propionate (250mcg)
  • Manufacturer: Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा साल्मेटेरोल और फ्लूटिकासोन प्रोपियोनेट का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग अस्थमा और क्रॉनिक ऑब्सट्रक्टिव पल्मोनरी डिजीज (सीओपीडी) के दीर्घकालिक उपचार में किया जाता है। यह दवा वायुमार्ग को खोलने और सूजन को कम करने में मदद करती है। यह तुरंत राहत के लिए नहीं है, बल्कि नियमित रूप से उपयोग करने पर लाभ देती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में गले में जलन, आवाज में भारीपन, सिरदर्द और ऊपरी श्वसन संक्रमण शामिल हैं। कुछ रोगियों को कंपन, धड़कन या मांसपेशियों में ऐंठन हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, रक्त शर्करा में वृद्धि और अधिवृक्क अपर्याप्तता शामिल हैं। मुँह में फंगल संक्रमण से बचने के लिए हर बार उपयोग के बाद पानी से कुल्ला करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग अचानक अस्थमा के दौरे के लिए न करें। आपात स्थिति के लिए हमेशा एक तेजी से काम करने वाला रेस्क्यू इनहेलर साथ रखें। हर बार इनहेल करने के बाद मुँह को पानी से धोएं। निर्धारित खुराक से अधिक न लें। यदि आपको हृदय रोग, मधुमेह, थायरॉइड विकार या यकृत की समस्या है तो अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं। दीर्घकालिक उपयोग में नियमित निगरानी की आवश्यकता हो सकती है।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Asthma","description":"Maintenance treatment of asthma in patients not adequately controlled on inhaled corticosteroids alone or requiring dual therapy.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)","description":"Long-term maintenance therapy to reduce exacerbations and improve lung function in patients with COPD.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction","description":"May be used off-label for prevention of exercise-induced asthma, but not as a rescue medication.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Asthma

Also treats: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Salmeterol (50mcg) + Fluticasone Propionate (250mcg)
Brand Namequikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule
ManufacturerIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationInhalation
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always use this medicine at the same time each day, approximately 12 hours apart.
2
Rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation to prevent oral thrush.
3
Do not use this medicine to treat sudden breathing problems; use your rescue inhaler instead.
4
Keep a diary of your symptoms and peak flow readings to track your progress.
5
Inform your doctor if you experience palpitations, tremors, or worsening breathing.
6
Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Chronic wheezing and shortness of breath
This medicine is commonly prescribed for asthma and COPD.
Likely Use
❌
Sudden severe asthma attack
This medicine is not for acute attacks; use a rescue inhaler.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionSalmeterol is slowly absorbed from the lungs after inhalation, with peak plasma levels occurring within 10 to 20 minutes. Fluticasone propionate is absorbed from the lungs and gastrointestinal tract, but systemic absorption is minimal due to low oral bioavailability. The exact pharmacokinetic parameters may vary among individuals.
DistributionBoth salmeterol and fluticasone propionate are distributed widely in the body, with high protein binding. Salmeterol is extensively bound to plasma proteins, while fluticasone propionate is approximately 91% protein-bound. The volume of distribution for fluticasone propionate is approximately 4.2 L/kg.
Protein BindingSalmeterol is approximately 96% bound to plasma proteins. Fluticasone propionate is approximately 91% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismSalmeterol is primarily metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 3A4 to inactive metabolites. Fluticasone propionate is also metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4 to an inactive carboxylic acid metabolite.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of salmeterol is approximately 5.5 hours. The elimination half-life of fluticasone propionate is approximately 7.8 hours.
ExcretionSalmeterol and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the feces, with a small amount in urine. Fluticasone propionate and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the feces, with less than 5% in urine.
BioavailabilityThe systemic bioavailability of salmeterol after inhalation is approximately 5% to 10% due to first-pass metabolism. The oral bioavailability of fluticasone propionate is negligible (less than 1%) due to extensive first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionSalmeterol begins to produce bronchodilation within 10 to 20 minutes after inhalation. Fluticasone propionate takes several hours to days to exert its full anti-inflammatory effects.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of salmeterol are reached within 10 to 20 minutes after inhalation. Fluticasone propionate reaches peak plasma levels within 1 to 2 hours.
Duration of ActionThe bronchodilator effect of salmeterol lasts for approximately 12 hours. The anti-inflammatory effect of fluticasone propionate persists for 24 hours or longer with regular use.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary mechanisms. Salmeterol selectively stimulates beta-2 adrenergic receptors in the airways, leading to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and bronchodilation. Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic corticosteroid that binds to glucocorticoid receptors, reducing the release of inflammatory mediators and suppressing the inflammatory response in the airways. Together, they provide both immediate and long-term control of asthma and COPD symptoms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Beta-2 receptor stimulation: Salmeterol binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle cells, activating adenylate cyclase and increasing cyclic AMP levels.
2
Smooth muscle relaxation: Increased cyclic AMP leads to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle, resulting in bronchodilation and improved airflow.
3
Glucocorticoid receptor binding: Fluticasone propionate binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the cytoplasm, forming a complex that translocates to the nucleus.
4
Anti-inflammatory gene regulation: The glucocorticoid-receptor complex modulates gene transcription, reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines and mediators.
5
Reduced airway inflammation: This leads to decreased airway edema, mucus secretion, and hyperresponsiveness, providing long-term control of asthma and COPD.

💡 How to Take quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule

Strength: Inhalation capsule containing Salmeterol 50 mcg and Fluticasone Propionate 250 mcg.

1Wash your hands before handling the inhaler.
2Load the capsule into the device as instructed.
3Exhale completely away from the device.
4Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and seal your lips around it.
5Press the button to puncture the capsule and inhale deeply and steadily.
6Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.
7Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.
8Clean the device regularly as per instructions.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one inhalation twice daily (morning and evening), approximately 12 hours apart. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor based on your condition and response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients, but use with caution due to increased risk of adverse effects. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment. However, use with caution and monitor closely.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is two inhalations (50 mcg salmeterol/250 mcg fluticasone) twice daily. Do not exceed this dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
No specific timing required
This medicine is inhaled and not affected by food.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels by inhibiting CYP3A4.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 6 hours late
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than 6 hours late
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule

✅ Common Side Effects

Throat irritation (Common (5-10%))
Rinse your mouth with water after inhalation. If irritation persists, consult your doctor.
Hoarseness (Common (5-10%))
Rinsing the mouth and using a spacer device may help. Consult your doctor if it continues.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Upper respiratory tract infection (Common (5-10%))
Practice good hand hygiene. Consult your doctor if symptoms worsen.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reactions (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, hives, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Paradoxical bronchospasm (Rare (<0.1%))
If breathing worsens immediately after use, stop the medicine and seek emergency medical help.
Adrenal insufficiency (Rare (<0.1%))
Long-term high-dose use may cause adrenal suppression. Consult your doctor if you experience fatigue, weakness, or low blood pressure.
Increased blood sugar (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Monitor blood sugar regularly if you have diabetes. Consult your doctor for dose adjustments.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Cataracts
Regular eye check-ups are recommended with long-term use.
Osteoporosis
Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake. Bone density monitoring may be needed.
Pneumonia
Seek medical attention if you develop fever, chills, or worsening cough.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Ketoconazole Major
Ritonavir Major
Propranolol Major
Furosemide Moderate
MAOIs Moderate
Diphenhydramine Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)
  • Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of dizziness and drowsiness. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol while using this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to salmeterol, fluticasone propionate, or any component of the formulation","Acute bronchospasm requiring intensive treatment","Severe hypersensitivity to milk proteins (for some formulations)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not use for acute asthma attacks; use a short-acting beta-2 agonist instead.","Rinse mouth after inhalation to prevent oral candidiasis.","May cause paradoxical bronchospasm; discontinue if it occurs.","Long-term high-dose use may lead to adrenal suppression, cataracts, and osteoporosis.","Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and liver disease.","Do not exceed the recommended dose.","Do not stop abruptly without medical advice."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether salmeterol and fluticasone propionate are excreted in human breast milk. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause tachycardia, tremor, hypokalemia, and hyperglycemia. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Do not use this medicine to relieve a sudden asthma attack. Always carry a fast-acting rescue inhaler for emergencies. Rinse your mouth with water after each inhalation to prevent fungal infections. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or liver problems. Regular monitoring of lung function, blood sugar, and bone density may be needed with long-term use. Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to side effects such as osteoporosis, cataracts, and adrenal suppression. Regular monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before planning pregnancy. This medicine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about this medicine. It may need to be continued during surgery to prevent bronchospasm. Follow your doctor's instructions.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist about this medicine. Rinsing with water after inhalation reduces the risk of oral thrush, which can be aggravated by dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid triggers such as smoke, dust, and pollen.
🥗
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce breathing effort.
😴
Practice breathing exercises like pursed-lip breathing.
💧
Get vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia.
🧘
Use a spacer device if recommended by your doctor.
🌞
Keep your rescue inhaler with you at all times.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Exercise may trigger asthma symptoms. Use your rescue inhaler before exercise if advised. Warm up and cool down gradually. Avoid exercising in cold, dry air or high pollution.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Include omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed.
Limit processed foods and added sugars.
Stay well hydrated.
Avoid foods that trigger your allergies.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or tremor in some people. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It should not interfere with most daily activities when used as prescribed.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your condition worsens, contact your doctor immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may increase the risk of oral thrush, cataracts, osteoporosis, and adrenal suppression. Regular monitoring of lung function, blood sugar, and bone density is recommended. Do not stop abruptly without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Oral medications like montelukast can be used as add-on therapy for asthma.

Evidence: Well-established
Immunotherapy

Allergy shots may help reduce asthma symptoms in allergic patients.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for patients with asthma or COPD. Pneumococcal vaccination may also be advised. Consult your doctor.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or cold. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription inhalers.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with moderate asthma
She was prescribed this medicine twice daily. After a few weeks, her night-time symptoms decreased, and she could exercise without wheezing. She learned to rinse her mouth after each use to prevent throat irritation.
💡 Lesson: Regular use of maintenance inhalers significantly improves asthma control and quality of life.
👤 A 60-year-old man with COPD
He started this medicine along with smoking cessation. Over six months, his exacerbations reduced, and he could walk longer distances. He monitored his blood sugar as he had diabetes.
💡 Lesson: Combination inhalers reduce COPD flare-ups, but monitoring for side effects like hyperglycemia is important.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Salmeterol starts working within 10-20 minutes, but the full anti-inflammatory effect of fluticasone may take several days to weeks.

Q: Can I use this inhaler during an asthma attack?

A: No, this is a maintenance inhaler. Use a short-acting rescue inhaler for sudden attacks.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my blood sugar?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for quikhale sf 50mcg/250mcg capsule

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be used as a rescue inhaler.
    Fact: This medicine is a maintenance inhaler and should not be used for acute attacks. Always use a short-acting rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms.
  • Myth: It is safe to stop this medicine once symptoms improve.
    Fact: Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may worsen.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Salmeterol + Fluticasone Propionate generic inhalers

Brand Alternatives

  • Seretide
  • Seroflo
  • Foracort
  • Duolin

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Salmeterol 50 mcg + Fluticasone 250 mcg","onset":"10-20 minutes","duration":"12 hours","frequency":"Twice daily"},{"medicine":"Budesonide + Formoterol","composition":"Budesonide 160 mcg + Formoterol 4.5 mcg","onset":"5-10 minutes","duration":"12 hours","frequency":"Twice daily"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory