Symbicort

What is it?

Composition

Symbicort is a unique combination of two active ingredients that complement each others action, providing effective help for respiratory diseases. Each of these components is carefully selected to ensure maximum effectiveness and safety.

• Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways. It reduces swelling of the mucous membrane and the amount of mucus secreted, improving airway patency.
• Formoterol is a long-acting β2-adrenergic agonist that quickly and for a long time relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi, facilitating breathing.
• Excipients such as propellants and stabilizers ensure uniform distribution of active ingredients during inhalation.

This combination makes Symbicort one of the leading drugs for the treatment of respiratory diseases, combining anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects.

How to use?

Symbicort use requires strict adherence to the doctors recommendations and instructions for use to ensure maximum therapeutic effect and reduce the risk of side effects. The drug is available as an inhaler, which allows you to deliver active substances directly to the respiratory tract.

1. Before first use or if the inhaler has not been used for more than a week, shake the device and release a test spray into the air to make sure it is working properly.
2. Remove the mouthpiece cover, tightly cover it with your lips and take a slow, deep breath through your mouth, while pressing the inhaler to release a dose of the drug.
3. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly. If repeated use is required, wait about a minute before the next breath.
4. After use, be sure to rinse your mouth with water to reduce the risk of irritation of the mucous membrane or fungal infections.

The recommended dose and frequency of use are determined by the doctor depending on the patients condition. It is important to use your inhaler regularly, even when you have no symptoms, to maintain control of the disease.

How does it work?

Symbicort has a dual action due to the combination of a corticosteroid and a bronchodilator, which makes it particularly effective in the treatment of asthma and COPD. Each component works in its own way, providing comprehensive relief of symptoms and preventing exacerbations.

Budesonide, as an anti-inflammatory agent, reduces the activity of cells responsible for inflammation in the airways. This helps to relieve mucosal swelling, reduce mucus secretion and prevent narrowing of the bronchi. Thus, the airways become more open and resistant to irritants.

Formoterol, in turn, provides rapid and long-lasting relaxation of the smooth muscles of the bronchi. This leads to dilation of the airways, improving airflow and eliminating symptoms such as shortness of breath and wheezing. Its action begins within a few minutes of inhalation and lasts up to 12 hours.

The combined action of these two substances allows Symbicort to provide both rapid relief during attacks and long-term control of the respiratory tract.

Indications

Symbicort is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of various respiratory diseases associated with inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Its use is especially effective in chronic diseases that require long-term control.

• Asthma (mild, moderate or severe), when both anti-inflammatory treatment and regular bronchodilator action are required.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, to reduce symptoms and prevent exacerbations.
• Prevention of attacks of shortness of breath and other symptoms associated with physical activity or exposure to allergens.

The use of Symbicort allows not only to control symptoms, but also to significantly improve the quality of life of patients suffering from respiratory diseases.

Contraindications

Although Symbicort is effective, its use may be limited by certain conditions or diseases. It is important to consult with your doctor and be aware of contraindications before starting treatment.

• Hypersensitivity to budesonide, formoterol or any of the excipients included in the drug.
• Age under 6 years, since safety and efficacy in younger children have not been established.
• Severe forms of cardiovascular disease, such as tachycardia or ischemic heart disease, which may worsen with the use of β2-adrenergic agonists.
• Active tuberculosis or other infectious lung diseases, especially if they are not controlled.
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, in which the use of β2-agonists may require additional monitoring of blood sugar levels.

If any of the listed conditions are present, possible alternatives or an individual regimen for using Symbicort should be discussed with the attending physician.

Side effects

Like any other medicine, Symbicort can cause side effects. These range from mild and temporary to more serious, requiring a doctors advice. Most patients tolerate the treatment well, but it is important to be aware of possible reactions.

• Common side effects: throat irritation, hoarseness, cough after inhalation. These usually go away on their own or are reduced by proper inhaler technique.
• Fungal infections of the mouth (candidiasis), especially with long-term use. The risk is reduced by rinsing your mouth with water after using the drug.
• Tremor, headache, increased heart rate (tachycardia) - possible due to the effect of formoterol on the nervous and cardiovascular systems.
• Rare reactions: allergic reactions such as rash, itching or swelling of the face, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Long-term use may cause suppression of adrenal function or decreased bone density, which requires regular monitoring by a doctor.

If you notice side effects, especially those that are disturbing or do not go away over time, you should consult a specialist. Proper use of the drug and monitoring by a doctor help minimize risks.