Symbicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-Formoterol)

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Symbicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-Formoterol) - Product Information

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What is Symbicort Turbuhaler?

Symbicort Turbuhaler is a prescription inhaler used to manage breathing conditions such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It contains two active ingredients:

• Budesonide: A corticosteroid that reduces swelling and inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier.
• Formoterol: A long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes muscles in the airways to improve airflow.

Together, these medicines help you breathe more easily, reduce symptoms, and lower the risk of flare-ups.

Who Can Use Symbicort Turbuhaler?

Symbicort is prescribed for:

• Asthma: For patients aged 12 and older to manage symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.
• COPD: For adults with moderate to severe COPD, including chronic bronchitis or emphysema, to manage persistent symptoms.

How to Use Your Symbicort Turbuhaler

Using your inhaler properly ensures you get the full benefit of the medicine. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare the inhaler: Hold the Turbuhaler upright. Twist the base all the way in one direction, then twist it back in the other direction until you hear a click. This loads a dose of medicine.
2. Inhale deeply: Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and seal your lips around it. Inhale deeply and forcefully through your mouth to draw the medicine into your lungs.
3. Rinse your mouth: After inhaling your dose, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. This reduces the risk of side effects like a sore throat or oral thrush (a fungal infection).

Important Tips for Using the Inhaler:

• Do not shake the inhaler.
• Do not breathe out through the mouthpiece.
• Always replace the cover after use to protect the inhaler.

When Should I Use Symbicort?

Symbicort can be used in different ways based on your condition. Your doctor will determine the best plan for you:

1. As a reliever only: Use Symbicort when you experience symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing.
2. As a reliever and maintenance treatment: Use Symbicort daily to prevent symptoms and take extra doses as needed to relieve symptoms when they occur.
3. As a maintenance treatment only: Use Symbicort daily to keep your condition under control. For sudden symptoms, use a separate rescue inhaler.

How Often Should I Use It?

Your doctor will provide specific instructions, but typical usage includes:

• For asthma: 1–2 inhalations twice a day.
• For COPD: 2 inhalations twice a day.

Do not exceed 8 inhalations in one day unless directed by your doctor.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose

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

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Like all medicines, Symbicort may cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Sore throat or hoarseness
• Mild shaking (tremors)
• Cough or throat irritation

Rare but serious side effects may include:

• Difficulty breathing or wheezing that worsens
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or trouble swallowing

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical help immediately.

Precautions and Safety Tips

• Always have your rescue inhaler available for sudden symptoms.
• Do not stop using Symbicort suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your condition.
• Inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking or if you have conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or infections.
• Monitor for signs of oral thrush (white patches in your mouth) and maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing your mouth after each use.

Storage and Disposal

• Store your Symbicort Turbuhaler at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F, and keep the cover tightly closed.
• Do not store it in damp or hot places, such as in the bathroom or near a stove.
• When the inhaler is empty, or the dose counter shows zero, discard it according to local waste disposal regulations.

Additional Notes

Symbicort Turbuhaler is designed for long-term use to help manage your asthma or COPD. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to assess how well your treatment is working. If your symptoms worsen or you need to use your reliever inhaler more frequently, contact your healthcare provider.

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Reference: Symbicort Canada product monograph

Product Video: Canadian Symbicort

To use Symbicort Turbuhaler, twist the base back and forth to load the dose (you'll hear a click). Inhale deeply and forcefully through the mouthpiece to deliver the medication to your lungs. Rinse your mouth with water afterward and spit it out to prevent side effects like oral thrush. Do not shake, exhale into the inhaler, or exceed the prescribed dose. Always replace the cover after use.