Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD: Advanced Asthma and COPD Control
| Product dosage: 100 mcg + 6 mcg | |||
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| 3 | $32.13
Best per inhaler | $138.55 $96.38 (30%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 200 mcg + 6 mcg | |||
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| Package (num) | Per inhaler | Price | Buy |
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| 3 | $41.16
Best per inhaler | $150.60 $123.49 (18%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| Product dosage: 400 mcg + 6 mcg | |||
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| 3 | $44.18
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Synonyms | |||
Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD is a combination inhaler designed for the maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It contains two active ingredients: budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, and formoterol, a long-acting beta2-agonist that helps to relax and open the air passages. This dual-action formulation provides both anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects, offering comprehensive management of respiratory symptoms. It is intended for regular use to prevent symptoms and exacerbations, not for immediate relief of acute bronchospasm. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in improving lung function and reducing the frequency of severe episodes.
Features
- Contains budesonide 160 mcg and formoterol fumarate dihydrate 4.5 mcg per inhalation
- Delivered via the Turbuhaler® dry powder inhaler device
- Each inhaler provides 60 metered doses
- Does not require shaking before use
- Dose counter to track remaining inhalations
- Breath-activated mechanism for coordinated delivery
Benefits
- Provides dual therapy combining an anti-inflammatory agent and a bronchodilator in a single device
- Reduces airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction, leading to improved symptom control
- Lowers the risk of severe exacerbations and hospitalizations in asthma and COPD
- Enhances overall lung function and exercise tolerance
- Supports adherence by simplifying medication regimen with one inhaler
- Offers a portable, easy-to-use delivery system suitable for daily management
Common use
Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD is commonly prescribed for the regular maintenance treatment of asthma in patients requiring a combination of inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-agonist therapy. It is also indicated for the symptomatic treatment of patients with severe COPD (FEV1 < 50% predicted normal) and a history of repeated exacerbations, who have significant symptoms despite regular bronchodilator therapy. It is not intended for the relief of acute bronchospasm or as a rescue medication.
Dosage and direction
For asthma: The recommended dose is 1 or 2 inhalations twice daily. The maximum recommended dose is 4 inhalations twice daily. For COPD: The recommended dose is 2 inhalations twice daily. Always follow the specific dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. To use, hold the Turbuhaler upright, turn the grip until it clicks, exhale fully away from the mouthpiece, place lips tightly around it, and inhale deeply and forcefully. Remove the inhaler from the mouth and hold breath for about 10 seconds if possible. Do not exhale into the device. Rinse your mouth with water after each use to reduce the risk of oral candidiasis.
Precautions
- Not for use in the treatment of acute asthma attacks or status asthmaticus; always have a rescue inhaler available.
- Increased risk of pneumonia in patients with COPD; monitor for signs and symptoms.
- May cause systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal suppression with high doses or long-term use.
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, or hypertension.
- Potential for paradoxical bronchospasm; if it occurs, discontinue use immediately and consider alternative therapy.
- Be alert for changes in glucose levels in diabetic patients.
- Caution in patients with thyrotoxicosis, pheochromocytoma, or seizure disorders.
- Regular monitoring of bone mineral density may be advised in patients at risk for osteoporosis.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to budesonide, formoterol, or any component of the formulation.
- Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma or COPD where intensive measures are required.
- Not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age for asthma, or under 18 for COPD.
Possible side effects
Common side effects may include:
- Headache
- Oropharyngeal candidiasis (thrush)
- Hoarseness or dysphonia
- Cough
- Tremor
- Palpitations
- Tachycardia
- Nausea
Less common but serious side effects require medical attention:
- Signs of adrenal insufficiency (e.g., fatigue, weakness, nausea, hypotension)
- Increased wheezing or breathing difficulties immediately after use
- Chest pain, irregular heart rhythm
- Signs of infection such as fever, chills
- Vision problems, such as blurred vision or glaucoma
- Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness)
- Significant decrease in bone mineral density
Drug interaction
- Concomitant use with other beta-adrenergic agents may potentiate sympathetic effects.
- Ketoconazole, itraconazole, or other potent CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase budesonide plasma levels.
- MAO inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, and QTc-prolonging agents may enhance the cardiovascular effects of formoterol.
- Diuretics may potentiate hypokalemia caused by beta2-agonists.
- Use caution with non-potassium sparing diuretics, as hypokalemia may be exacerbated.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. Resume the regular dosing schedule.
Overdose
Overdose may lead to symptoms such as tachycardia, tremor, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, and hyperglycemia. Hypokalemia may also occur. In cases of excessive corticosteroid exposure, signs of hypercorticism may appear. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Cardiac monitoring is recommended in cases of significant overdose.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place. Keep the Turbuhaler in the sealed foil pouch until first use. After opening, keep the cap tightly closed. Do not store in damp areas like bathrooms. Do not expose to extreme heat or cold. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard the inhaler when the dose counter shows zero, even if it seems to contain more medication.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
Reviews
(Note: Simulated summary based on common clinical feedback.)
Patients and healthcare providers often report significant improvement in daily symptom control and quality of life with Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD. Many appreciate the convenience of a combination inhaler and the clarity of the dose counter. Some users note a learning curve with the Turbuhaler technique, but find it effective once mastered. A minority report mild side effects such as oral thrush or hoarseness, which are often manageable with proper inhalation technique and oral rinsing. Overall, it is regarded as a reliable maintenance option for moderate to severe asthma and COPD.