What are the active ingredients in Breo Ellipta (fluticasone propionate/vilanterol) inhaler?

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Last updated: August 11, 2026 • View editorial policy

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Breo Ellipta Composition

Breo Ellipta contains two active ingredients: fluticasone furoate (an inhaled corticosteroid) and vilanterol (a long-acting beta2-agonist), delivered via a dry powder inhaler. 1

Active Ingredients

The medication is available in three strength combinations:

  • Fluticasone furoate 100 mcg / Vilanterol 25 mcg
  • Fluticasone furoate 200 mcg / Vilanterol 25 mcg (for asthma only)
  • Fluticasone furoate 50 mcg / Vilanterol 25 mcg (for asthma only)

Each inhaler contains two separate foil strips of 30 blisters each—one strip contains fluticasone furoate with lactose monohydrate, and the other contains vilanterol with magnesium stearate and lactose monohydrate. 1

Inactive Ingredients

The formulation includes:

  • Lactose monohydrate (contains milk proteins)
  • Magnesium stearate 1

Pharmacological Properties

Fluticasone furoate is an enhanced-affinity glucocorticoid receptor agonist with potent anti-inflammatory activity. It demonstrates enhanced affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor compared with other clinically used inhaled corticosteroids and has longer lung retention than fluticasone propionate. 2

Vilanterol is a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist that is highly selective for β2-adrenoreceptors and provides rapid and prolonged bronchodilation with a duration of action suitable for once-daily dosing. 2

Delivery Device

The medication is delivered through the Ellipta dry powder inhaler, a single-step activation, multi-dose device designed for once-daily use. 3 Studies show that over 90% of patients rate the Ellipta device as "easy to use" and demonstrate correct technique both initially and at follow-up. 4

Important Caveat

The lactose monohydrate component contains milk proteins, which is relevant for patients with severe milk protein allergies. 1

References

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.