What is Symbicort?

Symbicort inhaler contains the medication budesonide and formoterol. The generic alternative for Symbicort comes from these medications and is simply known as budesonide/formoterol. The two medications work together to control and prevent the symptoms of asthma and other breathing problems. Budesonide reduces irritation, swelling and inflammation in the body and airways and formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in the airways which makes breathing easier.

What is Symbicort used for?

Symbicort is used to control and prevent the symptoms of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis and emphysema in adults and children over the age of 6. These symptoms can include wheezing and shortness of breath. Symbicort is a not a quick-relief inhaler and therefore should not be used to treat and asthma or bronchospasm attack. When prescribed for patients with asthma, Symbicort should only be used when asthma is severe and not well-controlled by other long-term asthma medicines.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Symbicort is not a rescue medicine for asthma or bronchospasm attacks and will not relieve an attack once started. Symbicort should be used regularly to prevent the symptoms of asthma or COPD.
• Always shake well for 5 seconds before use.
• Inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. This medication is usually prescribed to take twice daily twelve hours apart. Try to take this medication at the same times each day.
• If your prescribed dose is two puffs, wait at least one minute between puffs. If you also take any other inhalers, wait at least one minute between the use of each medication and use your Symbicort inhaler last.
• Rinse your mouth with water without swallowing the water after each use of your inhaler.
• If you miss a scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use your inhaler at the next regular time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.
• Clean your inhaler once a week with a dry cloth. Do not take the inhaler apart.
• Store your inhaler in an upright position with the mouthpiece down. Keep away from open flame or high heat. Your inhaler may explode if it gets too hot.
• Your inhaler has a quantity of 120 puffs. Keep a track of your use and discard your inhaler after this time. Do not puncture or burn an empty canister.
• Do not stop using this medication or increase or decrease your dosage without consulting with a doctor

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Any illnesses or infections you have had recently or any you contract while taking Symbicort.
• If you have ever had heart disease, high-blood pressure, seizures, liver disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, tuberculosis, a thyroid disorder or an electrolyte imbalance.
• If you have ever had cataracts, glaucoma or other vision problems.
• If you have a weak immune system.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• If this medication gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and contact your doctor if it becomes irritated.
• You should avoid people who are sick or have infections. Contact your doctor immediately if you are exposed to chickenpox or measles.
• Symbicort is not approved for children under the age of 6 years old. This medication may temporarily slow children’s growth if used for a sustained period of time. See your doctor regularly so your child’s height can be checked.
• This medication may mask signs of infection. It can make you more likely to get infections or may worsen any current infections. Wash your hands thoroughly to prevent the spread of this.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side-effects of Symbicort.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Throat irritation or upset stomach.
• Raised blood-pressure.
• Headache or backaches.
• Cold or flu symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing or sinus pain.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• White patches on the tongue or in the mouth.
• Signs of infection such as fever or persistent sore throat.
• Mental or mood changes such as nervousness.
• Trouble sleeping or differences in your sleep.
• Vision problems such as blurred vision.
• Increased thirst or urination.
• Muscle cramps, shaking or severe dizziness.
• Any symptoms of an allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling or trouble breathing.

Q: How long does it take Symbicort to work?

A: It may take up to one week after taking Symbicort before your symptoms improve. Keep taking the medication as directed. Symbicort is not a quick-relief inhaler for an asthma attack.

Q: What is the Symbicort generic alternative?

A: The generic alternative for Symbicort is Budesonide/Formoterol and may offer you better savings. You can save on Symbicort and Budesonide/Formoterol by buying with us. We stock both the brand name and the generic alternative in strengths of 100mcg/6mcg (which is the same as 80mcg/4.5mcg) and 200mcg/6mcg (which is the same as 160mcg/4.5mcg).