Symbicort Inhaler

Description

Generic Name: budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate inhalation aerosol

Brand Name: Symbicort

Dosage Form: Inhalation aerosol

Indication: Symbicort is indicated for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. It is not indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm.

Dosage Strengths: Symbicort is available in the following dosage strengths:

• 80 mcg/4.5 mcg
• 160 mcg/4.5 mcg
• 320 mcg/9 mcg

Dosage and Administration:

• The recommended starting dose for Symbicort in adults with asthma is based on the patient’s previous asthma therapy.
• The recommended dose for Symbicort in adults with COPD is 160/4.5 mcg twice daily.
• Symbicort should be administered as two inhalations twice daily (morning and evening).
• Patients should rinse their mouth with water after inhalation to help reduce the risk of thrush.

Contraindications: Symbicort is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to budesonide, formoterol fumarate dihydrate, or any of the excipients.

Warnings and Precautions:

• Symbicort should not be used as a rescue inhaler for the treatment of acute bronchospasm.
• Patients should be regularly assessed for their asthma control and treatment regimen adjusted as necessary.
• Symbicort should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, diabetes mellitus, hyperthyroidism, hypokalemia, and in patients who are taking medications that can prolong the QT interval.

Adverse Reactions:

The most common adverse reactions (> 3% and more common than placebo) in clinical trials include:

• Headache
• Nasopharyngitis
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Pharyngolaryngeal pain
• Sinusitis
• Influenza

Storage: Symbicort should be stored at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). The canister should be discarded after 120 inhalations or after the expiration date, whichever comes first.