Symbicort 160mcg/4.5mcg Turbuhaler – Asthma and COPD Maintenance Inhaler

Symbicort 160mcg/4.5mcg Turbuhaler is a combination inhaler used to manage long-term symptoms of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It contains two medicines: Formoterol, a long-acting bronchodilator, and Budesonide, a corticosteroid. Together, they reduce inflammation and help keep airways open for easier breathing.

Uses of Symbicort Turbuhaler:

• Maintenance treatment of Asthma
• Maintenance treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Benefits of Symbicort Turbuhaler:

• Reduces inflammation and airway swelling
• Relaxes bronchial muscles to open airways
• Provides long-term symptom relief
• Improves lung function and quality of life
• Prevents asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups

How to Use Symbicort Turbuhaler?

1. Check the label and follow the instructions.
2. Do not shake the inhaler.
3. Breathe out fully, then place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it.
4. Inhale deeply and forcefully through the mouthpiece.
5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
6. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to prevent oral fungal infections.

How Symbicort Works?

Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes muscles in the airways, allowing easier airflow. Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation by blocking inflammatory chemical messengers. Together, they improve breathing and control symptoms effectively.

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach discomfort
• Respiratory tract infections
• Nasopharyngitis
• Sinus inflammation
• Oral fungal infection (thrush)
• Tremors
• Voice change
• Palpitations
• Pharyngolaryngeal pain
• Back pain
• Cough
• Flu-like symptoms

Precautions and Warnings:

• Pregnancy: Generally considered safe if prescribed.
• Breastfeeding: Probably safe, consult doctor.
• Alcohol: Avoid, may increase risk of side effects.
• Driving: No known effect.
• Kidney/Liver Disease: No specific warnings, but inform your doctor.
• Do not use for sudden breathing problems — use a rescue inhaler instead.

Missed Dose?

If a dose is missed, use it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage and Disposal:

• Store in original container with the cap tightly closed.
• Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Dispose of unused or expired inhalers safely.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

FAQs:

Q. What conditions does Symbicort treat?
A. It treats asthma and COPD by reducing airway inflammation and improving breathing.

Q. Does Symbicort contain a steroid?
A. Yes, it contains Budesonide, a corticosteroid used to control inflammation in the lungs.

Q. Can I use Symbicort more often for quicker relief?
A. No. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Overuse may cause serious side effects. Consult your doctor if your symptoms are not controlled.

Q. Can I drink water after taking Symbicort?
A. Yes. However, rinse your mouth first to prevent fungal infection before drinking water.

Q. When should I stop using Symbicort?
A. Only stop when advised by your doctor. Abrupt discontinuation may worsen symptoms or trigger asthma attacks.

Q. Can I use antifungal medicine with Symbicort?
A. Consult your doctor before using antifungals or any other medicine alongside Symbicort.

Conclusion:

Symbicort 160mcg/4.5mcg Turbuhaler is a well-tolerated and effective long-term treatment for asthma and COPD. With correct inhaler technique and regular use, it helps reduce symptoms, prevent attacks, and improve overall respiratory health.