Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD

Symbicort Inhaler: Your Comprehensive Guide to Asthma and COPD Relief

Common Use

Symbicort is a combination medication containing budesonide (a corticosteroid) and formoterol (a long-acting beta-agonist, LABA). It is prescribed for the long-term maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symbicort is designed to provide both anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, working together to control symptoms and prevent exacerbations. It is not a rescue medication and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks or COPD flare-ups. For quick relief, a separate fast-acting inhaler (like albuterol) is necessary.

Budesonide reduces inflammation in the airways, decreasing swelling and mucus production. Formoterol relaxes the muscles around the airways, opening them up for easier breathing. This dual action helps to alleviate symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Symbicort is suitable for adults and children aged six years and older with asthma. For COPD, it helps manage symptoms like emphysema and chronic bronchitis by improving airflow and reducing the frequency of exacerbations.

Symbicort Dosage and Administration: How to Use Your Inhaler Correctly

Dosage and Direction

Symbicort is typically administered twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart. It's crucial to adhere to your doctor's prescribed dosage and instructions. Each dose usually consists of two inhalations from the Symbicort inhaler. Always use Symbicort exactly as your doctor tells you. Do not increase the dose or use it more frequently than prescribed.

Proper Inhaler Technique:

1. Prepare the Inhaler: Shake the inhaler well for about five seconds before each use. Remove the cap and inspect the mouthpiece to ensure it is clean and free of debris.
2. Exhale Fully: Breathe out completely, pushing as much air out of your lungs as possible.
3. Position and Inhale: Place the mouthpiece of the inhaler in your mouth, creating a tight seal with your lips. Tilt your head slightly back.
4. Actuate and Inhale: As you begin to inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth, press down firmly on the top of the inhaler to release the medication.
5. Hold Your Breath: Continue inhaling for as long as is comfortable. Once you have inhaled fully, remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for about 10 seconds (or as long as you comfortably can). This allows the medication to reach deep into your lungs.
6. Exhale Slowly: Breathe out slowly through your mouth or nose.
7. Repeat for Second Inhalation: If your prescribed dose is two inhalations, wait about 30 seconds and repeat steps 1-6.
8. Rinse Your Mouth: After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water without swallowing. This helps to prevent thrush (oral candidiasis), a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids.

Important Precautions When Using Symbicort for Asthma and COPD

Precautions

Symbicort is a maintenance medication and not a rescue inhaler. It's essential to have a separate, fast-acting inhaler available for treating sudden asthma attacks or COPD flare-ups. If you experience a sudden worsening of your symptoms, use your rescue inhaler immediately. If your symptoms do not improve after using your rescue inhaler, seek immediate medical attention.

Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially if you have:

• Heart problems
• High blood pressure
• Thyroid problems
• Diabetes
• Glaucoma or cataracts
• Osteoporosis
• Liver problems
• Any allergies to medications

If Symbicort accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water. If irritation persists, consult a doctor.

Contraindications: When Should You Avoid Using Symbicort?

Contraindications

Symbicort is not suitable for everyone. It should not be used:

• As a primary treatment for acute asthma or COPD exacerbations.
• In patients with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to budesonide, formoterol, or any other ingredients in the inhaler.
• In children under the age of six years for asthma.

Discuss your medical history thoroughly with your doctor to determine if Symbicort is right for you.

Potential Side Effects of Symbicort: What to Watch Out For

Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, Symbicort can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but some can be more serious.

Common Side Effects:

• Upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., runny nose, sore throat)
• Headache
• Hoarseness
• Oral thrush (candidiasis) - rinsing your mouth after each use can help prevent this
• Muscle cramps
• Tremors
• Nausea

Less Common Side Effects:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Changes in blood pressure
• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Cough
• Dry mouth
• Skin rash or itching
• Difficulty sleeping

Rare and Serious Side Effects:

• Paradoxical bronchospasm (wheezing or difficulty breathing that worsens after using the inhaler) - If this occurs, stop using Symbicort and seek immediate medical attention.
• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing) - Seek immediate medical attention.
• Adrenal suppression (fatigue, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting) - This is more likely with long-term use of high doses of inhaled corticosteroids.
• Glaucoma or cataracts (with long-term use)
• Decreased bone density (with long-term use)

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. If you experience any unusual or bothersome symptoms while using Symbicort, contact your doctor.

Drug Interactions: Medications to Be Cautious Of While Using Symbicort

Drug Interaction

Symbicort can interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Some medications that may interact with Symbicort include:

• Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, atenolol) - can block the bronchodilating effects of formoterol.
• Diuretics (water pills) - can increase the risk of hypokalemia (low potassium levels) when used with formoterol.
• MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants - can increase the risk of cardiovascular side effects.
• Other long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) - Using multiple LABAs can increase the risk of side effects.
• Ketoconazole and other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors - can increase the levels of budesonide in the blood, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.

Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist to check for potential drug interactions before starting Symbicort.

What to Do If You Miss a Dose or Overdose on Symbicort

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Symbicort, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

An overdose of Symbicort can cause serious side effects. Symptoms of an overdose may include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Tremors
• Nervousness
• Muscle cramps
• Headache
• Changes in blood pressure

If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center.

Proper Storage: Keeping Your Symbicort Inhaler Effective

Storage

Store Symbicort at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep the inhaler in an upright position. Avoid storing it in areas of high humidity or extreme temperatures, such as in a bathroom or near a stove. Keep out of reach of children.

If your Symbicort inhaler has not been used for more than seven days, you will need to prime it before use. To prime the inhaler, shake it well for five seconds and then release two puffs into the air, away from your face.

FAQ About Symbicort Inhaler

What is the difference between Symbicort and a rescue inhaler?

Symbicort is a maintenance medication that prevents asthma symptoms, while a rescue inhaler (like albuterol) provides quick relief during an asthma attack.

How long does it take for Symbicort to start working?

Symbicort starts working within 15 minutes to relax airways, but its full anti-inflammatory effects take several weeks to develop.

Can I use Symbicort if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Discuss the risks and benefits of using Symbicort with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

What should I do if I feel my asthma is getting worse?

Contact your doctor if your asthma symptoms worsen or if you need to use your rescue inhaler more frequently than usual.

Can children use Symbicort?

Symbicort is approved for use in children aged six years and older with asthma. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Buy Symbicort Online for Effective Asthma and COPD Management

Find affordable Symbicort prices and order conveniently online. We offer secure online purchasing and fast shipping. Get your Symbicort prescription refilled quickly and easily. Don't wait, order now to experience relief!

You May Also Like:

-23%

Ventolin Inhaler

Albuterol

Ventolin relieves asthma symptoms and treats chronic obstructive bronchitis by relaxing airway muscles. Buy online at 24...

buy now

$21.60

-87%

Viagra

Sildenafil

Viagra for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension treatment options. Shop genuine medications at 24med...

buy now

$0.26

-39%

Anafranil

Clomipramine

Anafranil treats OCD, panic attacks, depression, and chronic pain by affecting the central nervous system. Buy Anafranil...

buy now

$0.67

-91%

Prednisone

Prednisone

Shop Prednisone online at 24med for inflammation relief and symptom control in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and...

buy now

$0.29

-50%

Diflucan

Fluconazole

Diflucan is an anti-fungal antibiotic effectively treating candidiasis in various organs, including genital infections....

buy now

$0.69

-87%

Zithromax

Azithromycin

Zithromax: buy a macrolide antibiotic online to treat respiratory infections, pneumonia, and ear infections. Order conve...

buy now

$0.54