What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Symbicort Inhaler (Budesonide / Formoterol)
Also Known as Vannair
Generic Equivalent - Symbicort Inhaler (Budesonide / Formoterol)
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
SYMBICORT is an inhaler that contains a combination of two medications - budesonide, and formoterol. SYMBICORT is prescribed for the treatment of asthma in children over 6 years old and adults. It can also be prescribed as a maintenance medication for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
Asthma and COPD are chronic conditions where a person has difficulty breathing either due to spasms of muscles in the lungs or obstruction of the airways. SYMBICORT helps to treat these conditions by relaxing the airways.
Directions
The usual dose of SYMBICORT is 2 inhalations twice daily.
The standard inhaler sizes are SYMBICORT 80/4.5 mg and SYMBICORT 160/4.5 mg. Your doctor will determine the correct starting dose based on symptom severity and condition being treated.
After inhalation, rinse your mouth with water and do not swallow it. SYMBICORT contains the steroid budesonide, which can increase the risk of thrush if not washed from the mouth.
Ingredients
The active ingredients in SYMBICORT are the medications budesonide and formoterol.
Budesonide
Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory activities. Corticosteroids are signaling molecules that send messages between the cells of the body. Budesonide works by reducing inflammation, swelling, and spasms in the lungs.
Formoterol
Formoterol is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) that works quickly once inhaled. By activating beta-receptors on the surface of muscle cells in the lungs, formoterol causes these muscles to relax and increase breathing capacity.
Fact Table
Formula
C44H58N2O10
License
EU EMA, US FDA
Bioavailability
49%
Legal status
RX Only
Chemical Name
Budesonide / Formoterol
Elimination half-life
4.7 hours
Dosage (Strength)
80/4.5mcg MDI (120 doses/inhaler), 160/4.5mcg MDI (120 doses/inhaler)
Pregnancy
Consult a doctor
Brands
Symbicort
Protein binding
50%
PubChem CID
56841116
MedlinePlus
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ChEBI
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ATC code
R03AK07
DrugBank
DB00983
KEGG
D09595
Routes of administration
Inhalation
Cautions
SYMBICORT is a maintenance medication and not a rescue inhaler. For episodes of acute bronchospasm, a short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) inhaler like albuterol should be used.
Medications like SYMBICORT that contain formoterol or another LABA should be used with extreme caution in patients with asthma. In clinic trials, other LABAs have been shown to increase the risk of asthma-related death. Therefore, inhaler combinations that contain a LABA should be reserved for more extreme cases of asthma and used for as little time as possible.
Corticosteroids may increase the risk of infections like thrush and pneumonia.
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for a full list of cautions.
Side Effects
Common side effects of SYMBICORT inhaler include:
- Back pain
- Headache
- Influenza
- Nasal congestion
- Nasopharyngitis
- Oral candidiasis
- Pharyngolaryngeal pain
- Stomach discomfort
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Vomiting
References
- Dekhuijzen PNR, Bjermer L, Lavorini F, Ninane V, Molimard M, Haughney J. "Guidance on handheld inhalers in asthma and COPD guidelines." Respiratory Medicine. 2014;108(5):694-700. doi:10.1016/j.rmed.2014.02.013
- Symbicort [package insert]. Wilmington, DE,: AstraZeneca, 2017.
Frequently Asked Questions about Symbicort Inhaler
How do you use a Symbicort inhaler?
Read the full instructions in the patient information that comes with your prescription. Shake the inhaler well, place the mouthpiece in your mouth, inhale deeply, and hold your breath for about 10 seconds. Use it twice a day, morning and evening.
Is Symbicort a steroid inhaler?
Yes, Symbicort contains both an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA).
What are the side effects of taking Symbicort?
Common side effects include headache, trembling, and a sensation of heartbeat.
Is Symbicort inhaler good for cough?
Symbicort is primarily used for asthma and COPD management, not specifically for cough.
What to avoid when taking Symbicort?
Avoid using another medicine containing LABA while on Symbicort. Also, it won’t replace a rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms.
How long does it take for Symbicort to start working?
It varies, but some improvement may be noticed within a few days.
When should you not use Symbicort?
If you have an allergic reaction to Symbicort or any of its ingredients. Consult your doctor if your asthma doesn’t improve or worsens.
When is the best time of day to take Symbicort?
Morning and evening, as prescribed.
How long can I stay on Symbicort?
Follow your doctor’s guidance; it can be long-term.
Should I take one or two puffs of Symbicort?
Follow your doctor’s recommendation. Most people take two puffs.
Does Symbicort affect sleep?
It generally doesn’t significantly affect sleep, but individual responses may vary. Excessive use of Symbicort may lead to insomnia or sleep disturbances.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 11571
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