What is Symbicort?

Symbicort Inhaler is a combination inhaler contains the medications budesonide and formoterol. These two medications work in tandem to help to control and prevent the symptoms of asthma and other breathing problems such as wheezing and shortness of breath. Budesonide works by reducing irritation, swelling and inflammation within your airways while formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator which relaxes the muscles in the airways. Symbicort then combines these medications making breathing easier for you.

What is Symbicort used for?

Symbicort is prescribed to help control and to prevent the symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath for people with of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis and emphysema. Symbicort is a not a quick relief inhaler and you should not use it to treat either an 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.

• Shake your inhaler well for five seconds before each use.
• Symbicort is normally prescribed to be take two times a day, twelve hours apart. You should take this medication at around the same times each day.
• Wait at least one minute between puffs of this inhaler and any other inhalers, using Symbicort last. If your prescribed dose of Symbicort is two puffs, then you should also wait at least a minute between puffs.
• After each use, rinse your mouth with water without swallowing the water.
• 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 away from open flame or high heat. Your inhaler could explode if it gets too hot.
• Symbicort inhalers have a dose quantity of 120 puffs. Keep a track of your usage 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 Symbicort 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.
• Your medical history especially of heart disease, high-blood pressure, seizures, liver disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, tuberculosis, a thyroid disorder, electrolyte imbalance, cataracts, glaucoma or other vision problems.
• Any illnesses or infections you have had recently or any you contract while taking Symbicort.
• If you have a weak immune system.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• Symbicort should not be used by children under 6 years old. Over a sustained period of time, this medication may temporarily slow children’s growth. 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 and avoid people who are sick or have infections. Contact your doctor immediately if you are exposed to chickenpox or measles.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to the side-effects of Symbicort.

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

• Throat irritation.
• 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 of Symbicort:

• Signs of infection such as fever or persistent sore throat.
• White patches on the tongue or in the mouth.
• Nervousness..
• Differences in your sleep or problems sleeping.
• Vision problems including 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 can take up to one week before your symptoms begin to improve. Continue to take this medication as directed.

Q: What is the Symbicort generic alternative?

A: Generic Symbicort is Budesonide/Formoterol and may offer you better savings. You could save up to 90% on the cost of your medication by buying Symbicort online with Canada Drugs. 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). No Symbicort coupon is needed to get our great prices.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Symbicort?

A: 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.

Q: What should I do if I get Symbicort in my eyes?

A: If you get Symbicort in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water and contact your doctor if it becomes irritated.