Drug Description:
Symbicort Inhaler (budesonide-formoterol fumarate dihydrate) is an oral inhalation indicated for the treatment of asthma among patients 6 years old and above. This inhaler is also used as a maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
This combination of corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist can control and prevent symptoms of wheezing and shortness of breath. Budesonide, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid, inhibits activities against multiple cell types and mediators involved in allergic and non-allergic-mediated inflammation. Formoterol fumarate dihydrate, on the other hand, is a beta2-agonist that has a rapid bronchodilation effect.
Directions
Read the medication or prescription guide provided before starting to use Symbicort. Follow the dosage recommended by your physician. This inhaler is available in Symbicort 80/4.5 mcg inhaler (equivalent to Symbicort 100/6 mcg) and Symbicort 160/4.5mcg inhaler (equivalent to Symbicort 200/6 mcg).
Symbicort Inhaler HOW TO USE:
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- Take the Symbicort Inhaler out of its foil pouch and throw the foil pouch properly. On the box, write the date of when the packaging was open. Check the counter on the top portion of the inhaler. The arrow points at the number of puffs left in your inhaler.
- Hold the inhaler in an upright position, remove the mouthpiece cover, and then shake it for 5 seconds.
- Hold the inhaler away from you. Press the top of the counter fully to release a test spray. Shake for 5 seconds again and press fully for another test spray. Now, your Symbicort Inhaler is ready to use.
Note: Do this step only if you are using the inhalation for the first time, if you haven’t used it in 7 consecutive days, or if you drop the device.
- Breathe out or exhale fully and deeply. Put the inhaler up to your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece. Ensure that the inhaler is in an upright position and is pointing towards the back of your throat.
- Breathe in or inhale deeply and slowly as you push the button fully, releasing the medicine.
- Do not release the button yet. Hold your breath for not less than 10 seconds. Exhale slowly as you release the button at the top of the counter.
- Breathe normally again, shake your inhaler for another 5 seconds, and repeat steps 4-6.
- When you’re done with 2 puffs of Symbicort, close it by placing the mouthpiece back. You will hear a click.
- Rinse your mouth with water. Do not swallow.
Do not increase or decrease your dose and frequency of Symbicort inhaler or stop using it abruptly, as this may worsen your condition. However, if you have a sudden asthma attack or shortness of breath and you are using a quick-relief inhaler, you could stop using this for a while.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of Symbicort inhaler are:
-headache
-nausea
-vomiting
-throat irritation
-stuffy nose
-stomach upset
-diarrhea
-back pain
-joint pain
Most side effects are mild and could go away on their own. However, if the symptoms worsen or if you experience severe adverse reactions like hypertension, chest pain, irregular breathing, severe dizziness, fainting, seizure, tremors, trouble sleeping, mood changes, vision problems, increased thirst, frequent urination, and signs of infection, you have to call your doctor right away.
Precautions
Avoid using Symbicort inhaler if you have a known allergy to budesonide, formoterol, arformoterol, or inactive ingredients this inhaler may have. Seek emergency help immediately if you observe skin rash, hives, swelling of the face, and breathing difficulties while using this inhaler.
Talk to your physician about all your medical conditions or have a history of hypertension, heart disease, liver disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, aneurysm, eye problem, or any past infections. Some conditions may trigger severe adverse reactions.
Symbicort Inhaler may also increase the risk of QT prolongation, especially if you have heart problems or any family history of heart problems, low potassium, or low magnesium.
Practice good hygiene at all times and stay away from anyone who has an infection. Symbicort Inhaler may mask signs of infections. Thus, you are more likely to get infected or experience severe symptoms of infection if you are using this drug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Symbicort a rescue inhaler?
Symbicort is not a fast-acting rescue inhaler.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Symbicort Inhaler?
If you missed a dose of Symbicort, try to take it as soon as you can. If it is close to your succeeding scheduled dose, disregard the missed one and proceed with your scheduled dose. Do not take two doses simultaneously.
How often should I clean my Symbicort inhaler?
Clean your inhaler with a dry cloth once a week. Do not take the inhaler apart when cleaning.
Can pregnant women use Symbicort Inhaler?
This inhaler falls under Pregnancy Category C. While there are no sufficient trials to prove if it can cause harm to the fetus or unborn child, pregnant women should only use this if the potential benefits are more significant than the potential risks.
Can breastfeeding women use Symbicort Inhaler?
Symbicort Inhaler could pass into the breastmilk and may cause harm to breastfed babies.
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