Arcapta

Arcapta is the brand name for indacaterol, a long-acting inhaled beta-2 agonist bronchodilator used as maintenance therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is delivered once daily via a dry powder inhaler (Neohaler) and is not intended for relief of acute bronchospasm.

Indacaterol works by stimulating beta-2 adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle, producing relaxation and bronchodilation. This leads to improved expiratory flow, reduced breathlessness, and better exercise tolerance. The effects are designed to provide 24-hour bronchodilation, supporting once-daily dosing in COPD management.

In clinical use, Arcapta is prescribed to improve symptoms and reduce exacerbations in adults with COPD as part of a maintenance regimen. It may be used alone or in combination with other bronchodilators or inhaled corticosteroids, depending on disease severity, symptom burden, and treatment guidelines. It is not a rescue medication and should be used regularly as prescribed.

Safety and adverse effects are an important consideration. Common side effects include cough, throat irritation, nasal congestion, headache, tachycardia, tremor, and palpitations. Less common risks include paradoxical bronchospasm or worsening COPD. As with other LABAs, Arcapta should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, and it should not be used as monotherapy for asthma without an accompanying inhaled corticosteroid, due to potential asthma-related risks. Drug interactions may occur with non-selective beta-blockers and other sympathomimetic agents.