Symbicort Inhaler (Budesonide/Formoterol) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Symbicort Inhaler (budesonide and formoterol) Indications

Symbicort Inhaler, generic name budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate, is an oral prescription inhalation used for the treatment of asthma for adult and pediatric patients who are 6 years of age and older.

Symbicort Inhaler is used as maintenance treatment for airflow obstruction associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which may include chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both.

Symbicort Inhaler is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used to relieve acute bronchospasm.

Symbicort Inhaler is classified as a corticosteroid and a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). It acts by inhibiting the mediators and cell types responsible for inflammation and it relaxes the bronchial smooth muscle as it inhibits the mediators involved in immediate hypersensitivity response.

Symbicort Inhaler (budesonide and formoterol) Uses and Dosage

Read the medication information guide before using Symbicort Inhaler.

Always use Symbicort Inhaler exactly as prescribed. Symbicort Inhaler is used two times daily, 12 hours apart, preferably in the morning and at night. It is important to use this medication at the same time each day.

How to use a Symbicort Inhaler:

1. Shake the inhaler well for five seconds.
2. Remove the mouthpiece cover and check the area for any foreign objects.
3. Breathe out fully away from the mouthpiece.
4. Place the mouthpiece inside your mouth and close your lips around it.
5. Breathe in slowly and deeply via your mouth while you press the top of the inhaler firmly and fully to release the medication.
6. Hold your breath for about ten seconds or for as long as is comfortable.
7. Release the top of the inhaler and remove the mouthpiece from your mouth.
8. Breathe out slowly.
9. Repeat steps 3-8 if you need to take another puff. If you are done, rinse your mouth with water and spit.

Symbicort Inhaler (budesonide and formoterol) Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Symbicort Inhaler are:

• Throat irritation
• Headache
• Nausea/stomach upset
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stuffy nose

These side effects are usually manageable. If they worsen, then seek medical advice.

Serious Side Effects

Some of the serious adverse reactions of Symbicort Inhaler are:

• High blood pressure
• Worsening of breathing problems
• White patches inside the mouth
• Infections (fever, persistent sore throat)
• Vision problems
• Muscle cramps
• Shaking or tremors
• Nervousness or other mental changes

If any of these adverse reactions occur, then seek medical attention immediately.

Allergic Reactions

Avoid using Symbicort Inhaler if you have an allergy to budesonide, formoterol, arformoterol, or any contents that this inhaler may contain. Seek emergency assistance if an allergy develops while using this medication. Signs of an allergy include:

• Itching
• Rashes
• Hives
• Swelling of the face and neck
• Severe dizziness
• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen lymph nodes

Symbicort Inhaler (budesonide and formoterol) Cautions

Symbicort Inhaler may be contraindicated in patients with the following:

• Recent or current infections
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Hyperthyroidism
• Osteoporosis
• Cataract
• Glaucoma
• Diabetes
• Liver disease
• Aneurysm
• Pheochromocytoma
• Seizures

Symbicort Inhaler may cause immunosuppression. Avoid contact with people who have any type of infection and those who recently received live-attenuated vaccines.

During pregnancy, Symbicort Inhaler may be used only if necessary as its effects on pregnancy have not been fully determined.

Some contents of Symbicort Inhaler may pass through breast milk, therefore consult your physician and know all the possible risks if you are breastfeeding or intend to do so.

Symbicort Inhaler (budesonide and formoterol) Form and Strength

Symbicort Inhaler prescription medication is available in:

• Symbicort Inhaler, inhalation aerosol
  • 80/4.5 mcg
  • 160/4.5 mcg
• Budesonide/Formoterol (generic), inhalation aerosol
  • 80/4.5 mcg
  • 160/4.5 mcg

FAQ

How long should I stay on Symbicort?

You should use Symbicort Inhaler for as long as the doctor recommends. This is a maintenance medication that is safe for long-term use.

How do I know if Symbicort is working?

You will know that the Symbicort Inhaler is working once your breathing symptoms improve. This medication may start working within 15 minutes of first inhalation.

Can you stop Symbicort Inhaler suddenly?

Symbicort should not be discontinued abruptly. Continue to use the Symbicort Inhaler regardless of if you are experiencing symptoms. Only discontinue upon the advice of your doctor.

Resources

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/021929s013lbl.pdf

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-148393/symbicort-inhalation/details