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Symbicort
Symbicort (generic name: budesonide/formoterol) is a prescription medication used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It combines two active ingredients: budesonide, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, and formoterol, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that helps relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. Symbicort is used as a maintenance inhaler to control and prevent asthma symptoms, including wheezing and shortness of breath, as well as for managing COPD. It is not intended for the treatment of acute asthma attacks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Symbicort to start working?
Symbicort may begin to improve breathing within 15 minutes due to the fast-acting nature of formoterol. However, it may take 1 to 2 weeks of regular use to see the full benefits in controlling asthma or COPD symptoms.
Can I use Symbicort as a rescue inhaler?
No, Symbicort is not designed for the treatment of acute asthma or COPD attacks. You should always have a rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, available for quick relief of sudden symptoms.
How long can I use Symbicort?
Symbicort can be used long-term for the management of asthma or COPD. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for any side effects associated with long-term corticosteroid use and adjust your treatment as necessary.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Symbicort?
If you miss a dose of Symbicort, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take extra doses to make up for the missed one.
Is Symbicort safe for children?
Yes, Symbicort is approved for use in children 6 years and older for the treatment of asthma. The dosage and treatment plan should be determined by a pediatrician based on the child’s specific needs.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Symbicort Work?
- Budesonide: A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs, helping to prevent and control asthma and COPD symptoms.
- Formoterol: A long-acting beta-agonist that relaxes the muscles around the airways, improving airflow and reducing symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.
Together, these ingredients help maintain open airways and reduce inflammation, improving overall lung function.
Common Dosages
- 80 mcg/4.5 mcg per actuation
- 160 mcg/4.5 mcg per actuation
The appropriate dosage depends on the severity of the patient’s asthma or COPD and will be determined by the prescribing healthcare provider.
Typical Dosing
- For asthma (adults and children 12 years and older): The usual recommended dose is 2 inhalations twice daily of either the 80 mcg/4.5 mcg or 160 mcg/4.5 mcg strength, depending on disease severity.
- For COPD (adults only): The typical dose is 2 inhalations twice daily of the 160 mcg/4.5 mcg strength.
- Symbicort should be taken regularly at the same time each day, even if you feel well. It is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for acute asthma or COPD attacks.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Asthma in patients aged 6 years and older
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, to improve breathing and reduce exacerbations
Who Shouldn't Take Symbicort?
- Known hypersensitivity to budesonide, formoterol, or any of the excipients in the formulation
- For the treatment of acute asthma or COPD attacks, as it is not fast-acting enough for emergency use
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Symbicort should be used consistently, as prescribed, to control asthma or COPD symptoms. Do not stop using it suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider.
- Rinse your mouth with water after each use to reduce the risk of developing thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth), a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids.
- Make sure to shake the inhaler well before each use and follow the instructions on how to properly administer the inhalation for maximum effectiveness.
- Keep track of the number of doses left in your inhaler. Once you reach the last dose, you should discard the inhaler and start using a new one.
- Store Symbicort at room temperature and protect it from heat and direct sunlight. Do not puncture or expose the inhaler to high heat, even when empty.
Side Effects of Symbicort
Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth)
- Respiratory tract infections
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Increased risk of asthma-related death (with long-term LABA use alone)
- High blood pressure or increased heart rate
- Adrenal suppression, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and muscle weakness
- Osteoporosis (with long-term use of corticosteroids)
Risks and Warnings of Symbicort
- Asthma-related death: Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) like formoterol have been associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death when used as monotherapy. However, when used in combination with a corticosteroid like budesonide, this risk is reduced. Symbicort should always be used as directed and not as a standalone treatment for acute asthma attacks.
- Thrush: Rinsing your mouth after each use helps reduce the risk of developing oral fungal infections (thrush).
- Bone Health: Long-term use of corticosteroids like budesonide may contribute to reduced bone mineral density, leading to osteoporosis. Discuss ways to support bone health with your healthcare provider, especially if long-term use is required.
Interactions with Symbicort
Common Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers: These medications, used to treat high blood pressure or heart conditions, can reduce the effectiveness of formoterol and may cause bronchospasm.
- Diuretics: Medications that deplete potassium (such as furosemide) may increase the risk of low potassium levels when taken with Symbicort.
- MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants: These medications can enhance the effects of formoterol on the cardiovascular system, leading to an increased risk of heart issues.
- Other corticosteroids: The use of other oral or inhaled corticosteroids may increase the risk of side effects associated with long-term corticosteroid use.
Alternatives to Symbicort
- Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol): Another combination inhaler containing a corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist, used for asthma and COPD.
- Dulera (mometasone/formoterol): A combination inhaler similar to Symbicort, used for asthma control.
- Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol): A once-daily combination inhaler used for asthma and COPD.
- Flovent (fluticasone): An inhaled corticosteroid used alone for asthma control, often combined with a LABA for long-term asthma or COPD management.
