What is Symbicort?

Symbicort is a combination long-acting beta agonist/inhaled corticosteroid maintenance inhaler for treating asthma or COPD. It contains formoterol to relax airways and budesonide to reduce inflammation. Symbicort works to prevent bronchospasm and asthma exacerbations.

What is the proper technique for using Symbicort?

Always begin by shaking the inhaler vigorously for 5 seconds before each use. Breathe out fully, then place mouthpiece in mouth creating a tight seal with lips. While taking a slow, deep breath in, fully depress the canister. Hold breath for 10 seconds before exhaling slowly. Rinse mouth after use.

How long does it take Symbicort to start working?

Patients begin feeling symptom relief within 15-30 minutes of inhaling Symbicort. However, it takes regular twice daily use for the full anti-inflammatory effects to manifest, which prevents asthma attacks. Use Symbicort daily as prescribed, even when feeling well.

What are the potential side effects of Symbicort?

Common side effects include sore throat, headache, and oral thrush. More serious but rare risks are paradoxical bronchospasm, hypersensitivity reaction, adrenal suppression and lowered bone density with long-term use. Proper inhaler technique minimizes side effects.

Is Symbicort safe for long-term daily use?

With proper asthma monitoring and medical follow-up, regular daily use of Symbicort maintenance inhalers is generally safe long-term per FDA approvals. However, clinicians should periodically reassess the continued need and proper dosing of Symbicort at follow-up appointments.

Can Symbicort be used during pregnancy if needed?

In general, Symbicort can be used during pregnancy if clearly needed to control persistent asthma and the benefits outweigh any potential risks. However, the lowest effective dose should be used. Discuss with your doctor to ensure your regimen is optimized for you and the fetus.

What special considerations are there for older adults using Symbicort?

Review inhaler technique frequently to ensure proper use. Start with the lowest effective dose and adjust as needed. Monitor closely for side effects like thrush, hoarse voice and tremor which are more common in seniors. Use a spacer if coordination difficulties exist. Rinse mouth after use.

How do I properly clean and care for my Symbicort inhaler?

Clean the plastic actuator weekly by removing metal canister and running under warm water for 30 seconds. Air dry fully overnight before reattaching canister. Don’t place metal canister in water. Also wipe plastic actuator with clean, dry cloth between uses to keep mouthpiece hygienic.
I hope these evidence-based insights help clinicians optimize their patients’ use of Symbicort inhalers for managing respiratory diseases.