Buy Symbicort Online

Introduction

Symbicort is a prescription combination inhaler designed to help manage chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It combines two critical medications: budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, and formoterol fumarate dihydrate, a long-acting bronchodilator. Together, these components provide long-term control of obstructive airway diseases by reducing inflammation and keeping the airways open for easier breathing.

Unlike quick-relief or “rescue” inhalers, Symbicort is intended for daily maintenance therapy and is not used to treat sudden symptoms or attacks. While it is a safe and effective option for many, it may not be suitable for everyone. Let’s review its uses, risks, dosage, and how to use it correctly.

Key Features of Symbicort

Symbicort contains two main active ingredients that work together to combat airway issues:

1. Budesonide:
   • A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways by suppressing overactive immune responses.
   • Also found in Pulmicort, it mimics the natural hormone cortisol produced by the adrenal glands to ease swelling and irritation.
2. Formoterol:
   • A long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) that helps relax airway muscles and keeps them open for extended periods.
   • Formoterol reduces airway tightening, allowing for improved airflow and easier breathing.

These effects are particularly beneficial for individuals with obstructive airway conditions, helping not only to alleviate symptoms but also to reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

What Is Symbicort Used For?

Symbicort is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the following conditions:

1. Asthma

• Suitable for adults and children aged 6 and older.
• Used to control persistent asthma symptoms, especially when rescue inhalers are needed more than twice a week.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

• Approved for the treatment of COPD in 2009.
• Helps maintain airflow in people with chronic bronchitis or emphysema by reducing the severity and frequency of flare-ups.
• Often prescribed for people with severe forms of the disease (two or more annual exacerbations or hospitalization history).

Symbicort is not designed to reverse COPD but can slow the progression of the disease.

Off-Label Uses

While Symbicort is primarily prescribed for asthma and COPD, doctors may occasionally recommend it for severe or recurrent bronchitis unrelated to COPD. This, however, is rare and depends on the individual case.

When Symbicort Is Prescribed

Symbicort is generally used when more conservative treatments fail to adequately manage respiratory symptoms. Its use often depends on condition severity:

• For asthma: Symbicort is prescribed if a patient’s symptoms are not well-controlled with a corticosteroid alone or if a rescue inhaler is required frequently. LABAs are always prescribed alongside corticosteroids for asthma.
• For COPD: The combination of a corticosteroid and a LABA is reserved for more severe cases with frequent exacerbations.

Pulmonary function tests or assessments of exacerbation frequency are often used to determine whether Symbicort is an appropriate option.

Precautions Before Using Symbicort

While Symbicort is generally safe, there are some important considerations and potential risks:

1. Contraindications for Allergies

• Do not use Symbicort if you are allergic to budesonide or formoterol.
• If you’ve experienced allergic reactions to other inhaled steroids (e.g., fluticasone, beclomethasone), discuss this with your doctor.

2. Risk for Pre-Existing Conditions

• Symbicort may worsen certain conditions, including:
  • Cataracts or glaucoma (due to prolonged corticosteroid use).
  • Adrenal insufficiency, as corticosteroids can suppress the function of the adrenal glands.
  • Osteopenia or osteoporosis, as corticosteroids can reduce bone density.
• Regular monitoring is recommended if you have these conditions.

3. Infections

• Symbicort suppresses the immune response, which may make some infections worse. It is not advised for use in people with:
  • Active tuberculosis, shingles, or untreated severe infections.
  • Children who have not been vaccinated against measles or chickenpox.

4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Animal studies suggest potential risks to the fetus, but no well-controlled human studies exist. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits.

Dosage and Instructions for Use

Symbicort is available as a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) in two strengths:

1. 80 mcg of budesonide / 4.5 mcg of formoterol per inhalation.
2. 160 mcg of budesonide / 4.5 mcg of formoterol per inhalation.

Dosage Recommendations:

How to Use Symbicort MDI:

• Prime the inhaler if it has not been used in over 7 days by spraying 2 test puffs.
• Shake well before each use.
• Breathe out fully, place the mouthpiece in your mouth, and press the inhaler while inhaling deeply.
• Hold your breath for about 10 seconds before exhaling.
• Rinse your mouth after use to prevent oral thrush (a common side effect of corticosteroids).

Consistency is key for Symbicort to work effectively, so ensure you follow your doctor’s prescribed schedule. Missing doses or stopping abruptly can worsen symptoms.

Common Side Effects of Symbicort

Most side effects are mild and tend to improve over time as the body adjusts to treatment.

Common Side Effects (1% or more):

• Respiratory issues: Common colds, sore throat, or sinus infections.
• Gastrointestinal effects: Nausea, vomiting, and stomach aches.
• Oral symptoms: Thrush (oral candidiasis), hoarseness, or dry mouth.
• Other: Headache, back pain, or fatigue.

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

• Adrenal suppression: Fatigue, weakness, and low energy due to suppression of cortisol production.
• Paradoxical bronchospasm: Worsening of breathing symptoms after inhaler use.

Emergency medical attention is needed for severe reactions like anaphylaxis (difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or tongue, hives) or symptoms of pneumonia.

Drug Interactions

Symbicort can interact with medications that are metabolized through the CYP450 liver enzyme, leading to increased risk of adverse effects or diminished efficacy.

Drugs To Avoid or Monitor Closely:

• Azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole)
• Macrolides (e.g., clarithromycin)
• HIV protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir)
• Beta-blockers, which can trigger bronchospasms in asthma patients.
• Diuretics, which may increase the risk of cardiac side effects.

Always inform your doctor about all medications, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter drugs, to avoid harmful interactions.

Storage and Maintenance Tips

• Store Symbicort inhalers at room temperature (68–77°F) and keep away from direct heat.
• Replace the inhaler before the expiration date or when the dose indicator reaches zero.
• Avoid submerging the inhaler in water; clean the mouthpiece weekly with a dry cloth.

Final Thoughts

Symbicort is a powerful tool for managing asthma and COPD, offering relief from symptoms and reducing the frequency of exacerbations. While it is effective, it requires consistent use and proper technique for the best results. Staying in close communication with your healthcare provider is essential, as they will adjust your treatment plan based on your response to the medication.

By carefully following your doctor’s recommendations and addressing potential side effects, you can improve your quality of life and keep your respiratory condition under control.