Description
What are Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules?
Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules are dry powder inhalation capsules manufactured by Cipla Ltd., one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies. Each capsule contains 200 micrograms (mcg) of Beclometasone Dipropionate as the active ingredient. Beclometasone dipropionate is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) used in the long-term management of asthma.
Important: These capsules are for inhalation only. They must be used with a compatible dry powder inhaler (DPI) device and must never be swallowed. The capsule is placed into the inhaler device, pierced, and the dry powder is inhaled directly into the lungs. Each pack contains 10 capsules.
Beclate 200 Capsules are a maintenance (preventer) therapy — they reduce airway inflammation and help prevent asthma symptoms over time. They do not provide immediate bronchodilation and are not suitable for acute asthma relief. A short-acting bronchodilator reliever inhaler must always be available for sudden symptom relief.
Composition and Product Details
| Brand Name | Beclate 200 |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Beclometasone Dipropionate |
| Strength | 200 mcg per capsule |
| Dosage Form | Dry powder capsule for inhalation (NOT for oral use) |
| Pack Size | 10 capsules (1 strip) |
| Manufacturer | Cipla Ltd., India |
| Therapeutic Class | Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) / Anti-asthmatic |
| Prescription Required | Yes |
About Cipla Ltd. and the Beclate Brand
Cipla Ltd. is a globally recognised Indian pharmaceutical company, established in 1935 and headquartered in Mumbai. Cipla is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of respiratory medicines, with a portfolio spanning pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs), dry powder inhalers (DPIs), nebuliser solutions, and oral respiratory formulations for asthma and COPD. The company operates in over 80 countries and is approved by multiple international regulatory authorities including the US FDA, UK MHRA, WHO-PQ programme, and the European EMA.
The Beclate brand is Cipla’s proprietary range of beclometasone dipropionate products for respiratory use, available in multiple strengths and delivery formats including pressurised inhalers and dry powder capsules. Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules are the lower-dose capsule option within the range, suitable for patients with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma or for step-down therapy once asthma is well controlled on a higher-dose ICS regimen.
About Beclometasone Dipropionate
Beclometasone Dipropionate (BDP) is one of the most established inhaled corticosteroids in clinical use, having been available for asthma management since the early 1970s. It is included in the guidelines of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and the British Thoracic Society (BTS), and remains widely prescribed worldwide as an effective, well-tolerated ICS for long-term asthma prevention. BDP is a prodrug that undergoes conversion to its active metabolite, beclometasone-17-monopropionate (17-BMP), within lung tissue, providing potent local anti-inflammatory action with reduced systemic exposure due to high first-pass hepatic metabolism.
How Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules Work
When inhaled as a dry powder, beclometasone dipropionate is deposited across the upper and lower airways. BDP is a glucocorticoid prodrug that is converted to its active metabolite, beclometasone-17-monopropionate (17-BMP), within the lung tissue. 17-BMP binds with high affinity to intracellular glucocorticoid receptors, suppressing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators that drive asthmatic airway disease.
The anti-inflammatory actions of inhaled BDP include:
- Suppression of eosinophilic airway inflammation: BDP reduces the recruitment and activation of eosinophils in the bronchial mucosa, addressing the chronic inflammatory process central to persistent asthma and recurrent exacerbations.
- Cytokine inhibition: BDP downregulates interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, and IL-13, reduces mast cell activity, and decreases mucosal oedema — the key features of type 2 airway inflammation in asthma.
- Reduced airway hyper-responsiveness: Consistent daily treatment lowers the reactivity of airways to common asthma triggers such as allergens, cold air, exercise, and viral respiratory infections, resulting in fewer and less severe attacks.
- Decreased mucus hypersecretion: By suppressing inflammation-driven mucus production, BDP helps improve airway clearance and reduce the plugging that contributes to asthma symptoms.
Beclate 200 Capsules are a preventer therapy — their protective benefit develops over days to weeks of regular daily use. They must be taken consistently, including on days when symptoms are absent, to maintain the anti-inflammatory effect. Stopping suddenly or using them only on symptomatic days allows airway inflammation to return.
Indications and Uses
Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules are indicated for:
- Mild-to-moderate persistent asthma (maintenance therapy): Long-term prophylactic treatment to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks in adults and adolescents. Suitable as a step 2–3 ICS option in standard asthma management guidelines.
- Step-down therapy: For patients previously on higher-dose ICS (such as 400 mcg beclometasone) whose asthma is well controlled and who are being stepped down to the lowest effective maintenance dose, as per GINA and BTS step-down criteria.
- Patients preferring DPI format: An alternative for patients who prefer a dry powder device without propellant to the pressurised MDI format, while still requiring the 200 mcg per-dose strength.
Beclate 200 Capsules are not a reliever and do not treat acute asthma attacks. A short-acting bronchodilator must always be available.
Dosage and Administration
Dose and frequency must be directed by the prescribing physician. General dosing guidance for beclometasone DPI capsules in adults and adolescents:
- Mild persistent asthma: 200–400 mcg daily in divided doses (one capsule once or twice daily)
- Moderate persistent asthma: 400–800 mcg daily in divided doses (two capsules twice daily, or as directed by the physician)
- Step-down: Once asthma is optimally controlled for at least 3 months, the physician may reduce the dose to the lowest effective maintenance level
How to use Beclate 200 Capsules (DPI inhalation technique):
- Remove one capsule from the blister strip immediately before use; do not store capsules outside the blister packaging as moisture causes powder clumping.
- Insert the capsule into the compatible dry powder inhaler device as per the device’s instructions.
- Pierce the capsule using the device’s piercing mechanism.
- Exhale fully and completely away from the inhaler mouthpiece.
- Place the mouthpiece firmly between your lips and teeth, tilt your head slightly back, then inhale deeply and forcefully through the mouth — the strong inspiratory flow draws the powder from the capsule into the airways.
- Hold your breath for 5–10 seconds, then exhale slowly away from the device.
- Check whether the capsule is empty by opening the device; if powder remains, re-pierce and inhale again.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit out after every dose to reduce the risk of oral candidiasis (thrush).
Never swallow the capsule. Never attempt to use it with a pressurised MDI device. The compatible DPI device is not included in the pack and must be obtained separately.
Special Populations
Elderly (≥65 years)
No specific dose adjustment is required in elderly patients with normal hepatic function. Monitor for systemic corticosteroid effects including bone density changes with long-term higher-dose therapy. Ensure adequate inhalation technique — a forceful inspiratory effort is required to activate the DPI.
Renal Impairment
No dose adjustment is necessary for renal impairment; BDP is primarily metabolised hepatically.
Hepatic Impairment
Beclometasone dipropionate undergoes significant hepatic first-pass metabolism. Systemic exposure may be increased in severe hepatic impairment; use with caution and under close medical supervision.
Paediatric Use
The 200 mcg capsule strength may be used in adolescents (≥12 years) and in some children as directed by a paediatric respiratory specialist. Children require individually determined doses and may need device guidance. Growth should be monitored in children receiving long-term inhaled corticosteroids.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Poorly controlled asthma during pregnancy poses significant risks to both mother and foetus. Inhaled beclometasone at therapeutic doses is generally considered acceptable during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before making any changes to asthma treatment during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Not for acute attacks: Beclate 200 Capsules do not relieve acute bronchospasm. Always have a short-acting bronchodilator reliever available. Seek emergency care if symptoms are severe or unresponsive to the reliever.
- Oral candidiasis (thrush): Inhaled corticosteroid deposition in the mouth and throat can cause fungal infection. Rinsing the mouth with water and spitting out after every use is essential.
- Hoarseness and dysphonia: Corticosteroid effects on laryngeal tissue may cause voice changes; rinsing after use helps reduce this.
- Systemic corticosteroid effects: At high doses or with long-term therapy, ICS can cause systemic effects including adrenal suppression, reduced bone mineral density, cataracts, and raised intraocular pressure. Use the lowest effective dose.
- Transferring from oral steroids: Patients switching from systemic corticosteroids to inhaled BDP may experience symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. Transfer must be gradual and closely medically supervised.
- Respiratory infections: ICS may increase susceptibility to respiratory infections. Report new or worsening symptoms promptly.
- Paradoxical bronchospasm: Rarely, an inhaled dose may cause immediate worsening of wheezing. Discontinue immediately, use a reliever bronchodilator, and seek medical attention.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to beclometasone dipropionate or any excipient in the formulation
- Acute asthma attacks or rapidly deteriorating asthma
- Use as a reliever inhaler for acute symptom relief
Possible Side Effects
Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 users)
- Oral and pharyngeal candidiasis (thrush) — greatly reduced by rinsing mouth after use
- Hoarseness or dysphonia (voice changes)
- Throat irritation or mild cough after inhalation
Uncommon
- Headache
- Nausea
- Skin bruising at higher doses over long periods
Rare but Serious
- Adrenal suppression — at high doses long-term; may present as fatigue, weakness, or hypotension under stress
- Paradoxical bronchospasm — immediate worsening after inhalation; discontinue and seek medical attention
- Hypersensitivity reactions including rash, urticaria, angioedema
- Growth retardation in children with prolonged high-dose ICS use
Drug Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, cobicistat, clarithromycin): Inhibit BDP and 17-BMP metabolism, increasing systemic corticosteroid exposure. Avoid concurrent use where possible.
- Systemic corticosteroids: Additive systemic effects; monitor for adrenal suppression with prolonged combined use.
Related Respiratory Products on IndoGenMed
IndoGenMed carries a complete range of beclometasone and inhaled corticosteroid products across strengths and formats:
- Beclate 200 Mcg Inhaler — Beclometasone 200 mcg in a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) format. Suitable for patients who prefer or require a propellant-driven inhaler device, or who would benefit from using a spacer to improve drug delivery to the lungs.
- Beclate 400 Mcg Capsules — Beclometasone 400 mcg DPI capsules for patients requiring a step-up to high-dose ICS therapy for moderate-to-severe persistent asthma, or where the 200 mcg capsule dose provides insufficient control.
- Budecort 400 Mcg Capsules — Budesonide 400 mcg DPI capsules, an alternative high-dose ICS in the same capsule format for patients or prescribers who prefer budesonide over beclometasone.
Storage Instructions
- Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity
- Keep capsules in the original blister packaging until immediately before use; exposure to moisture causes powder clumping and reduces efficacy
- Do not refrigerate or freeze
- Store out of reach of children
- Do not use capsules after the printed expiry date
- Clean the inhaler device regularly as per the device manufacturer’s instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules different from Beclate 400 Mcg Capsules?
A: Both products are beclometasone dipropionate dry powder inhalation capsules manufactured by Cipla, and both use the same DPI capsule format and inhalation technique. The difference is the per-capsule dose: 200 mcg versus 400 mcg. Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules are used for mild-to-moderate persistent asthma or for step-down therapy once asthma is well controlled, whereas Beclate 400 Mcg Capsules provide a higher-dose ICS option for moderate-to-severe asthma requiring step-up treatment. Your doctor determines the appropriate dose based on asthma severity, previous ICS use, and clinical response.
Q: Can I swallow Beclate 200 capsules if I don’t have the inhaler device?
A: No — this is one of the most important warnings for this product. Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules are strictly for inhalation only and must never be swallowed. The capsule shell and dry powder are designed to be delivered directly to the airways through a compatible DPI device. Swallowing the capsule will not treat asthma and could result in unnecessary systemic steroid exposure. If you do not have a compatible inhaler device, contact your doctor or pharmacist before use.
Q: How long does Beclate 200 Capsules take to improve asthma symptoms?
A: Some patients notice a reduction in asthma symptoms within a few days of starting treatment, but the full protective anti-inflammatory effect develops over 2–4 weeks of consistent daily use. It is important to take Beclate 200 every day as prescribed, including on days when you feel well. Stopping or reducing doses when symptoms improve allows airway inflammation to return, increasing the risk of asthma attacks. Contact your doctor before making any changes to your preventer therapy.
Q: What should I do if I experience oral thrush while using Beclate 200 Capsules?
A: Oral candidiasis (thrush), usually presenting as white patches in the mouth or a sore throat, is the most common local side effect of inhaled corticosteroids. If you develop thrush, contact your doctor — they can prescribe an antifungal treatment (such as an antifungal lozenge or gel) without needing to stop your preventer inhaler. To prevent thrush from recurring, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit out after every single use of your preventer. This step removes residual beclometasone before it can act on the oral mucosa and is recommended by the NHS for all patients using inhaled corticosteroids.
Q: Is Beclate 200 Mcg Capsules suitable for children?
A: Beclometasone DPI capsules are used in older children and adolescents, but the dose and device suitability must be determined by a paediatric respiratory specialist. Dry powder inhalers require a sufficient and forceful inspiratory flow to draw the powder from the capsule, which some younger children may not be able to generate reliably. Children under 12 years are often managed on lower-dose ICS in a pressurised MDI format with a spacer device. Your child’s specialist will advise on the most appropriate device and dose.
References
- NHS. Beclometasone inhalers. NHS.uk. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/beclometasone-inhalers/
- MedlinePlus. Beclomethasone Oral Inhalation. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682159.html
- Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention. 2023. Available at: https://ginasthma.org
- British Thoracic Society (BTS) / Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN). British Guideline on the Management of Asthma. Available at: https://www.brit-thoracic.org.uk
- European Medicines Agency (EMA). Beclometasone dipropionate — Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu
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