Symbicort: Advanced Dual-Action Control for Asthma and COPD
| Product dosage: 100 mcg + 6 mcg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per inhaler | Price | Buy |
| 1 | $46.18 | $46.18 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 2 | $36.64 | $92.36 $73.28 (21%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 3 | $32.12
Best per inhaler | $138.54 $96.37 (30%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 200 mcg + 6 mcg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per inhaler | Price | Buy |
| 1 | $50.19 | $50.19 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 2 | $45.68 | $100.39 $91.35 (9%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 3 | $41.16
Best per inhaler | $150.58 $123.48 (18%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 400 mcg + 6 mcg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per inhaler | Price | Buy |
| 1 | $55.21 | $55.21 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 2 | $50.19 | $110.43 $100.39 (9%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 3 | $44.17
Best per inhaler | $165.64 $132.51 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Symbicort is a combination inhaler designed for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It contains two active ingredients, budesonide and formoterol, which work synergistically to reduce inflammation and relax airway muscles. This medication is intended for regular use to prevent symptoms and improve lung function, offering a comprehensive approach to respiratory management under medical supervision.
Features
- Contains budesonide (a corticosteroid) and formoterol (a long-acting beta2-agonist)
- Available in multiple strengths to tailor therapy to individual patient needs
- Delivered via a pressurized metered-dose inhaler for consistent dosing
- Designed for twice-daily maintenance use
- Features a dose counter to track remaining medication
Benefits
- Provides dual-action therapy targeting both inflammation and bronchoconstriction
- Reduces the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations
- Improves overall lung function and exercise tolerance
- Enhances quality of life by enabling better daily symptom control
- May decrease reliance on rescue inhalers when used consistently
- Supports long-term airway stability in appropriate patient populations
Common use
Symbicort is commonly prescribed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 6 years and older who require both an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta2-agonist. It is also indicated for maintaining treatment of airflow obstruction in COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is not intended for immediate relief of acute bronchospasm.
Dosage and direction
For asthma maintenance: The recommended dosage is typically 2 inhalations twice daily (morning and evening, approximately 12 hours apart). For COPD: The usual dose is 2 inhalations twice daily. Dosage must be individualized based on disease severity and patient response. Patients should prime the inhaler before first use and rinse their mouth after each administration to reduce the risk of oral candidiasis. Always follow the specific prescribing instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
Precautions
Patients should be monitored for increased blood pressure, heart rate, and serum glucose. Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension. May cause systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal suppression with prolonged use. Not recommended for patients experiencing acutely deteriorating asthma. Caution advised in patients with diabetes, seizure disorders, or thyrotoxicosis.
Contraindications
Symbicort is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to budesonide, formoterol, or any component of the formulation. Should not be used as primary treatment for status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required. Not recommended for patients with severe milk protein allergy (as the product contains lactose).
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include headache, throat irritation, nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, and oral candidiasis. Less frequently reported effects include palpitations, tremor, cough, hoarseness, and dysphonia. Serious side effects may include pneumonia (particularly in COPD patients), cardiovascular effects, paradoxical bronchospasm, and signs of systemic corticosteroid effects. Patients should report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.
Drug interaction
Concomitant use with other beta-adrenergic drugs may potentiate sympathetic effects. Use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase budesonide systemic exposure. Caution advised when using with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, or drugs that prolong QTc interval. Diuretics may potentiate hypokalemia or ECG changes. Theophylline, steroids, or non-potassium sparing diuretics may enhance hypokalemic effects.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for optimal control of symptoms.
Overdose
Overdosage may produce symptoms consistent with beta2-agonist overdose, such as angina, hypertension, hypokalemia, seizures, and tachycardia, or corticosteroid effects including hypercorticism. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Cardiac monitoring is advised in cases of significant overdose. Consider the long duration of effect of both components when managing overdose situations.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep the canister away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not puncture or incinerate, even when empty. Store with the mouthpiece down. Keep out of reach of children. Discard the inhaler when the dose counter reads “0” or 3 months after removal from the foil pouch, whichever comes first.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment decisions. Individual patient needs may vary, and only a healthcare professional can determine appropriate therapy based on specific clinical circumstances.
Reviews
Clinical studies have demonstrated Symbicort’s efficacy in improving lung function and reducing exacerbation rates in both asthma and COPD patients. Many patients report improved symptom control and quality of life with regular use. Healthcare providers often note the convenience of combination therapy and the reliability of the delivery system. However, individual experiences may vary, and ongoing monitoring is essential for optimal treatment outcomes.