What are the common side effects of Symbicort. How can Symbicort-related weight gain be managed. What should you know about using Symbicort for asthma and COPD. How does Symbicort affect children differently than adults.

Understanding Symbicort: Uses and Basic Information

Symbicort is a prescription medication that combines two active ingredients: budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate. It belongs to a drug class known as corticosteroids and long-acting beta2 agonists. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Symbicort for the following uses:

• Treatment of asthma in adults and children 6 years and older
• Maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) in adults

Symbicort is administered through a metered-dose inhaler as an inhalation aerosol. When prescribed, it’s typically recommended as a long-term treatment option for managing respiratory conditions.

Common Side Effects of Symbicort

While Symbicort can be an effective medication for managing asthma and COPD, it may cause certain side effects. Clinical trials have reported the following common side effects:

• Headache
• Back pain
• Upper respiratory infections (e.g., common cold, sinusitis)
• Nasal congestion
• Oral thrush (yeast infection in the mouth)

These side effects are generally temporary and may subside within a few days to weeks. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider.

Mild Side Effects and Their Management

In addition to the common side effects, Symbicort may cause other mild adverse reactions. These include:

• Stomach discomfort
• Vomiting
• Bronchitis
• Mild allergic reactions

Can these mild side effects be managed at home? In many cases, yes. Here are some strategies that may help:

1. For headaches: Rest in a quiet, dark room and consider over-the-counter pain relievers if approved by your doctor.
2. For nasal congestion: Use a saline nasal spray or try steam inhalation.
3. For stomach discomfort: Eat smaller, more frequent meals and avoid trigger foods.
4. For oral thrush: Practice good oral hygiene and rinse your mouth after using the inhaler.

If these side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Medical Attention

While rare, Symbicort can potentially cause serious side effects. These may include:

• Weakened immune system
• Hypokalemia (low potassium levels)
• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)
• Decreased bone density
• Adrenal gland suppression
• Paradoxical bronchospasm
• Eosinophilia (high levels of certain white blood cells)
• Central nervous system issues
• Cardiovascular problems
• Pneumonia
• High blood pressure
• Severe oral thrush
• Severe allergic reactions

When should you contact your healthcare provider about serious side effects? If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

• Difficulty breathing or worsening of asthma symptoms
• Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of infection (fever, chills, body aches)
• Unusual fatigue or weakness
• Vision changes
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty swallowing)

Symbicort and Weight Gain: What You Need to Know

Does Symbicort cause weight gain? While weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Symbicort, it’s important to note that some patients may experience changes in weight while using this medication. This could be due to several factors:

1. Corticosteroid component: Budesonide, the corticosteroid in Symbicort, may potentially lead to weight gain in some individuals, especially at higher doses or with long-term use.
2. Improved breathing: As Symbicort helps manage respiratory symptoms, some patients may become more active, potentially leading to changes in appetite and weight.
3. Fluid retention: In rare cases, corticosteroids can cause fluid retention, which may appear as weight gain.

How can you manage potential weight gain while using Symbicort? Consider these strategies:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
• Engage in regular physical activity as approved by your healthcare provider
• Monitor your weight regularly and report significant changes to your doctor
• Discuss the possibility of adjusting your medication dosage with your healthcare provider if weight gain becomes a concern

Symbicort in Children: Special Considerations

How does Symbicort affect children differently than adults? While many side effects are similar, there are some special considerations for pediatric patients:

• Common side effects in children include headache, runny nose, and throat irritation
• A serious concern is the potential for decreased growth rate

What steps can be taken to minimize risks for children using Symbicort?

1. Regular growth monitoring by a healthcare provider
2. Using the lowest effective dose to manage symptoms
3. Discussing any concerns about growth or side effects with the child’s doctor
4. Ensuring proper inhaler technique to maximize benefits and minimize side effects

Long-Term Use of Symbicort: What to Expect

For many patients, Symbicort is prescribed as a long-term treatment option. What should you know about extended use of this medication?

• Regular check-ups: Your healthcare provider will likely schedule periodic appointments to assess your response to the medication and monitor for any long-term effects.
• Bone density: Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids may affect bone density. Your doctor may recommend bone density scans, especially for older adults or those at risk for osteoporosis.
• Adrenal function: In rare cases, long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids can affect adrenal gland function. Your doctor may perform tests to check your adrenal function if necessary.
• Eye examinations: Regular eye check-ups may be recommended, as long-term corticosteroid use can potentially increase the risk of cataracts or glaucoma.

How can you maximize the benefits of long-term Symbicort use while minimizing potential risks?

1. Adhere to your prescribed dosage and schedule
2. Use proper inhaler technique to ensure optimal medication delivery
3. Rinse your mouth after each use to reduce the risk of oral thrush
4. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly
5. Attend all scheduled check-ups and monitoring appointments

Interactions and Precautions: Maximizing Symbicort Safety

To ensure safe and effective use of Symbicort, it’s crucial to be aware of potential drug interactions and necessary precautions. What should you know about using Symbicort safely?

• Drug interactions: Symbicort may interact with certain medications, including beta-blockers, diuretics, and some antifungal drugs. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions may require special consideration when using Symbicort. These include heart problems, diabetes, osteoporosis, and thyroid disorders.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Symbicort with your healthcare provider.

How can you ensure you’re using Symbicort as safely as possible?

1. Provide a complete medical history to your healthcare provider
2. Disclose all medications and supplements you’re taking
3. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding dosage and administration
4. Don’t abruptly stop using Symbicort without consulting your healthcare provider
5. Keep all follow-up appointments for monitoring and adjustments as needed

Understanding Paradoxical Bronchospasm

One rare but serious side effect of Symbicort is paradoxical bronchospasm. What exactly is this condition?

Paradoxical bronchospasm occurs when an inhaled medication designed to open the airways actually causes them to constrict. This can lead to sudden breathing difficulties immediately after using the inhaler. While rare, it’s a potentially serious reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

How can you recognize paradoxical bronchospasm? Watch for these symptoms:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness
• Coughing

If you experience these symptoms after using Symbicort, stop using the medication immediately and seek emergency medical care. Your healthcare provider may need to reassess your treatment plan and consider alternative medications.

Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels

For patients with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes, it’s important to be aware that Symbicort may affect blood sugar levels. How does Symbicort impact blood glucose?

The corticosteroid component of Symbicort can potentially increase blood sugar levels. This effect is more pronounced with oral or injected corticosteroids, but it can also occur with inhaled formulations, especially at higher doses.

What steps can diabetic patients take when using Symbicort?

1. Monitor blood sugar levels more frequently, especially when starting Symbicort or changing doses
2. Work closely with your healthcare provider to adjust diabetes medications if needed
3. Report any significant changes in blood sugar levels to your doctor
4. Be aware of the symptoms of hyperglycemia, such as increased thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision

By staying vigilant and maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, you can effectively manage both your respiratory condition and blood sugar levels while using Symbicort.

The Importance of Proper Inhaler Technique

Proper inhaler technique is crucial for maximizing the benefits of Symbicort while minimizing potential side effects. How can you ensure you’re using your Symbicort inhaler correctly?

1. Shake the inhaler well before each use
2. Exhale completely before inhaling the medication
3. Place the mouthpiece between your lips and close your mouth around it
4. Begin to breathe in slowly and deeply while pressing down on the inhaler canister
5. Continue to inhale slowly for 5-10 seconds
6. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, or as long as comfortable
7. Exhale slowly
8. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the risk of oral thrush

What are the consequences of improper inhaler technique? Using the inhaler incorrectly can lead to:

• Reduced effectiveness of the medication
• Increased risk of side effects, particularly oral thrush
• Potential for medication to be deposited in the mouth or throat instead of the lungs

If you’re unsure about your inhaler technique, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a demonstration. Many clinics also offer inhaler technique classes or check-ups to ensure patients are using their devices correctly.

Managing Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids like those found in Symbicort. What exactly is oral thrush and how can it be managed?

Oral thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth caused by the overgrowth of Candida fungi. Symptoms may include:

• White patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, gums, or throat
• Redness or soreness in the affected areas
• A cottony feeling in the mouth
• Loss of taste
• Pain while eating or swallowing

How can you prevent and manage oral thrush while using Symbicort?

1. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after each use of the inhaler
2. Use a spacer device with your inhaler if recommended by your healthcare provider
3. Practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing
4. Consider using sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production
5. If thrush develops, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate antifungal treatment

By taking these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing oral thrush while using Symbicort.

Balancing Benefits and Risks

When considering the use of Symbicort, it’s important to balance the potential benefits against the risks of side effects. How can patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about Symbicort use?

The decision to use Symbicort should be based on a thorough assessment of the individual patient’s condition, medical history, and specific risk factors. Factors to consider include:

• Severity of asthma or COPD symptoms
• Response to other treatments
• Presence of other medical conditions
• Potential for drug interactions
• Individual risk factors for specific side effects

What steps can be taken to optimize the benefit-risk ratio of Symbicort?

1. Start with the lowest effective dose and adjust as needed
2. Regularly assess the need for continued treatment
3. Monitor for side effects and address them promptly
4. Consider combination therapy with other medications to potentially reduce the required dose of Symbicort
5. Educate patients on proper use, potential side effects, and when to seek medical attention

By carefully weighing the benefits and risks and implementing strategies to minimize potential side effects, healthcare providers and patients can work together to optimize the use of Symbicort in managing respiratory conditions.

What they are and how to manage them

Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) is a brand-name prescription medication. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it:

• to treat asthma in adults and children ages 6 years and older
• as a maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) in adults

Here are some fast facts about Symbicort:

• Active ingredients: budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate
• Drug class: corticosteroid and long-acting beta2 agonist
• Drug form: metered-dose inhaler as an inhalation aerosol

If Symbicort works for your condition, your doctor will likely recommend that you use it as a long-term treatment.

As with other drugs, there can be side effects (also called adverse effects) with the Symbicort inhaler. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects. For a general overview of Symbicort, including details about its uses, see this article.

Symbicort can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Symbicort in clinical trials:

• headache
• back pain
• upper respiratory infection, such as the common cold or sinusitis
• nasal congestion
• oral thrush* (a yeast infection in your mouth)

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Mild side effects can occur with Symbicort use. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Symbicort’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Symbicort include:

• back pain
• stomach discomfort
• nasal congestion
• upper respiratory infection, such as the common cold or sinusitis
• vomiting
• bronchitis
• mild oral thrush (a yeast infection in your mouth)*
• headache*
• mild allergic reaction*

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Symbicort and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.

Symbicort may cause serious side effects. Serious side effects are rare and less likely to happen if Symbicort is taken exactly as prescribed.

The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Symbicort’s prescribing information.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Symbicort, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported and their symptoms include:

• Weakened immune system. Symptoms can include:
  • frequent infections
  • fever
  • low blood cell counts
• Hypokalemia (low potassium level). Symptoms can include:
  • muscle spasms
  • muscle weakness
  • fast heart rate
  • constipation
  • dizziness
• Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Symptoms can include:
  • dizziness
  • increased thirst
  • dry mouth
  • blurry vision
  • tiredness
• Decreased bone density. Symptoms can include:
  • brittle nails
  • bones being more likely to break
• Adrenal gland suppression. Symptoms can include:
  • tiredness
  • increased cortisol level
  • weight gain
• Paradoxical bronchospasm. Symptoms can include:
  • shortness of breath
  • cough
  • chest tightness
  • wheezing
  • difficulty breathing
• Eosinophilia (high levels of certain white blood cells). Symptoms can include:
  • tiredness
  • chest pain
  • numbing and tingling in your hands and feet
  • difficulty breathing
• Central nervous system issues. Symptoms can include:
  • seizures
  • dizziness
  • nervousness
  • tremor
• Cardiovascular issues.*
• Pneumonia.*
• High blood pressure.*
• Serious oral thrush (a yeast infection in your mouth).*
• Severe allergic reaction.†

Talk with your doctor if you feel as though you are having serious side effects while using Symbicort.

* For more information about this side effect, see “Side effect specifics” below.
† An allergic reaction is possible after using Symbicort. To learn more, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Symbicort may cause similar side effects in both children and adults. Clinical trials showed that the most common side effects in children included headache, runny nose, and throat irritation (sore throat).

A serious side effect of Symbicort in children is decreased growth. Your child’s doctor will monitor your child’s growth during treatment with Symbicort. One way to reduce the risk of decreased growth is to use the lowest dose of Symbicort possible that manages your child’s symptoms.

If you notice that your child may have decreased growth while using Symbicort, talk with their doctor.

Symbicort may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Should I expect weight gain or weight loss with Symbicort?

Weight gain or weight loss are not known side effects reported in clinical trials of Symbicort.

However, Symbicort does contain an active ingredient, budesonide, which belongs to a drug class called corticosteroids. These drugs are known to cause weight gain when used at higher doses or for long periods of time.

If you are concerned about weight gain with Symbicort, talk with your doctor.

Is anxiety a side effect of Symbicort?

Anxiety is not a known side effect of Symbicort, according to clinical trials of the drug.

If you experience anxiety with Symbicort, this could be a sign that you are using more than the recommended dosage. Formoterol, one of the active ingredients in Symbicort, can cause overdose symptoms such as anxiety and nervousness.

If you believe you have taken too much of this medication, talk with your doctor immediately. They will assess your symptoms and recommend the best next steps.

Where can I find reviews from people who had side effects with Symbicort treatment?

Many people search the internet to find reviews or testimonials from people who have taken or currently take Symbicort before starting therapy.

However, online customer reviews may not be as reliable as other types of resources, such as the patient information medication guide provided by the drug manufacturer. While customer reviews can provide some insight, they can be unreliable. This is because every person’s body will respond differently to medications based on an individual’s body makeup, metabolism, and medical history.

To help decide whether Symbicort is the best treatment option for you, talk with your doctor. They will work with you to find the right medications for you.

Are there long-term side effects of Symbicort?

Yes, you may experience long-term side effects while taking Symbicort. Both a reduction in bone density and eye problems have been reported with long-term use of Symbicort.

One of the active ingredients in Symbicort, budesonide, belongs to a class of medications known as corticosteroids.

Clinical trials have shown long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to decreased bone density. This can increase the risk of bone fractures. Certain factors may also further raise your risk of bone fractures. These include:

• osteoporosis
• past or current tobacco use
• difficulty eating a balanced, nutritious diet
• being an older adult (ages 65 years and over)

If you start to experience decreased bone density with Symbicort, your doctor may recommend medications to treat osteoporosis, such as Fosamax (alendronate).

Additionally, long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to eye problems such as glaucoma or cataracts. If you experience vision changes or have a medical history of glaucoma or cataracts, your doctor may recommend regular eye exams and closer monitoring of symptoms.

If you are concerned about the potential of these long-term effects, talk with your doctor to determine whether Symbicort is right for you. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment option for you.

Does Symbicort cause withdrawal symptoms when stopping treatment?

Symbicort is not known to cause withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are side effects that happen after you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on. These side effects were not reported in clinical trials of the drug.

However, one of the active ingredients in Symbicort, budesonide, belongs to a class of medications known as inhaled corticosteroids.

Oral or systemic corticosteroids can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. Common withdrawal symptoms of oral corticosteroids may include joint and muscle pain, adrenal insufficiency, or depression. If you are currently taking a maintenance oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone, you will need to be appropriately tapered off your oral therapy before starting Symbicort. Doing so will help prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Talk with your doctor if you are currently taking or recently stopped taking oral corticosteroids. They will work with you to establish a plan to slowly stop the oral therapy before starting Symbicort.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Symbicort may cause. To find out how often side effects occurred in clinical trials, see the prescribing information for Symbicort.

Heart-related side effects

You may experience heart-related side effects while taking Symbicort. These side effects were rare in clinical trials of the drug, and are more likely to occur in people who already have a history of heart problems.

Heart related-side effects can include:

• high blood pressure
• low blood pressure
• changes in heart rhythm
• faster heart rate
• chest pain

What you can do

Taking Symbicort exactly as prescribed is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of heart-related side effects. Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and plenty of sleep can reduce your overall risk of heart problems.

Talk with your doctor if you experience heart-related side effects while taking Symbicort. They will assess your symptoms and help determine a treatment plan that’s best for you.

High blood pressure

You may experience high blood pressure while taking Symbicort for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or asthma. Typically, you will not experience any symptoms of high blood pressure until it becomes severe. Severe high blood pressure was a rare side effect in clinical trials of Symbicort.

Symptoms of severe high blood pressure can include vision problems, headaches, chest pain, irregular heart rate, and confusion.

What you can do

Regularly monitoring your blood pressure will help you notice any changes. Using Symbicort exactly as prescribed can help reduce your risk of high blood pressure.

Talk with your doctor if you experience high blood pressure while taking Symbicort. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms feel life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency.

Oral thrush

Oral thrush (a yeast infection in your mouth) is a common side effect that people taking Symbicort reported in clinical trials. However, if left untreated, it could become a serious side effect. Symptoms of oral thrush can include white spots in your mouth, loss of taste, mouth pain, sores on the inside of your mouth, and bleeding around the mouth sores.

What you can do

The most important action you can take to reduce your risk of oral thrush is to rinse your mouth out with water without swallowing after taking your dose.

Talk with your doctor right away if you feel as though you may be developing oral thrush while taking Symbicort. Your doctor may prescribe antifungal medications such as Diflucan (fluconazole) or nystatin to help manage the infection. It’s important to treat oral thrush as soon as you can to help prevent the infection from spreading in your body.

Headache

Headache is a common side effect of Symbicort. Clinical trials showed that headaches were typically mild in severity.

What you can do

Headaches from Symbicort typically go away on their own. Talk with your doctor if you have frequent or bothersome headaches. Your doctor may recommend medications to treat your headaches, such as Motrin (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen). Severe headaches may be a sign of other serious side effects from Symbicort, such as heart problems or central nervous system problems.

Pneumonia

You may be more likely to develop pneumonia while taking Symbicort. Clinical trials showed that people who were using Symbicort for COPD had a greater risk of developing pneumonia. Symptoms of pneumonia may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, increased mucus production, and chills.

What you can do

Monitoring for signs and symptoms of pneumonia to help detect an infection early for treatment will allow you to reduce your risk of severe infection.

Talk with your doctor if you feel as though you may be developing pneumonia while using Symbicort. Your doctor will assess the severity of your symptoms and may recommend antibiotics such as Augmentin (amoxicillin/clavulanate) or Zithromax (azithromycin).

Allergic reaction

As with most drugs, Symbicort can cause an allergic reaction in some people. This side effect wasn’t reported in clinical trialsof the drug. However, since Symbicort became available for use, people have reported severe allergic reactions immediately after taking a dose or a while after.

Symptoms can be mild or serious and can include:

• skin rash
• itching
• flushing
• swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What you can do

For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Symbicort. However, if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Symbicort. This drug may not be the right treatment option for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. These are known as drug-condition or drug-factor interactions. The conditions and factors to consider include:

Use with oral corticosteroids. Talk with your doctor if you are taking oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone or hydrocortisone, before starting Symbicort. You will need to make a plan with your doctor to wean off oral corticosteroids before starting Symbicort. If you take oral corticosteroids with Symbicort, you may increase your risk of adrenal gland suppression.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Symbicort or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Symbicort. Ask your doctor what other medications may be better options for you.

History of heart problems. Talk with your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, such as arrythmia and heart failure, before starting Symbicort. Symbicort can cause heart problems, and this risk is increased in people who already have a history of heart issues. For more about heart-related side effects, see the “Side effects specifics” section above.

History of central nervous system (CNS) problems. Talk with your doctor if you have a history of CNS problems, such as seizures, before starting Symbicort. Symbicort can cause CNS problems, and this risk is increased in people who already have heart conditions.

Osteoporosis. Symbicort can cause loss of bone density. If you have a history of osteoporosis, you may be at an increased risk of symptoms such as bone fractures and bone pain. Talk with your doctor if you have a history of osteoporosis before starting Symbicort.

History of glaucoma or cataracts. You may be at an increased risk of worsening glaucoma or cataracts while taking Symbicort long term. Symbicort can increase pressure buildup in your eyes and worsen glaucoma symptoms. Talk with your doctor if you have a history of glaucoma or cataracts before starting Symbicort.

Thyrotoxicosis. Symbicort can worsen symptoms of thyrotoxicosis (high thyroid hormone activity). Talk with your doctor if you have a history of thyrotoxicosis. Your doctor will assess your risk and determine the best treatment plan for you.

Immunosuppression medications. Symbicort can cause a weakened immune system and increase your risk of infections. If you are taking medications that also cause a weakened immune system, such as Prograf (tacrolimus) or Humira (adalimumab), you may have a higher risk of developing infections. Talk with your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting Symbicort.

Liver problems. Before using Symbicort, tell your doctor about any liver problems you have, such as liver failure. It isn’t known for certain whether Symbicort is a safe treatment option for people with liver problems. It’s possible for people with a liver condition to have a higher risk of side effects from the drug.

If you have a liver problem, your doctor may monitor you closely for side effects during Symbicort treatment.

Alcohol with Symbicort

There is no known interaction between alcohol and Symbicort. However, drinking alcohol while using Symbicort can increase your risk of certain side effects. For instance, Symbicort and alcohol can both cause high blood pressure, and when used in combination, this risk is increased.

Talk with your doctor if you drink alcohol while using Symbicort. They can advise you on how much alcohol, if any, may be safe for you.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Symbicort

According to clinical trials, it’s not clear whether it’s safe to use Symbicort during pregnancy. Animal studies show an increased risk of congenital anomalies (also known as birth defects) in pregnant animals given Symbicort. There are currently no human trials of the use of Symbicort during pregnancy.

Symbicort contains two active ingredients: formoterol and budesonide. There are currently no human trials of inhaled formoterol alone in pregnant people. However, animal studies show formoterol injections alone to increase the risks of both congenital anomalies and pregnancy loss. Clinical trials of budesonide show that using inhaled budesonide alone is safe for people who are pregnant.

It’s not known whether it’s safe to use Symbicort while breastfeeding. Symbicort contains two active ingredients: formoterol and budesonide. Budesonide can pass into breast milk. However, there are currently no human trials of formoterol, so it’s not known whether the drug passes into breast milk.

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor. You should also talk with them if you are breastfeeding or considering it. Your doctor can help determine whether Symbicort is safe for you.

If you are taking Symbicort for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, there is a risk you may experience side effects. Most side effects with Symbicort are mild to moderate in severity. Serious side effects can occur while you are taking Symbicort. For more information, see “Serious side effects” above.

If you’d like to learn more about Symbicort, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects from taking the drug.

Besides talking with your doctor, you can do some research on your own. These articles might help:

• More information about Symbicort. For details about other aspects of Symbicort, refer to this article.
• Drug comparison. Learn how Symbicort compares with Breo and Dulera.
• Dosage. For information about the dosage of Symbicort, view this article.
• Interactions. To find out about Symbicort’s interactions, see this article.
• A look at your condition. For details about asthma, see our asthma and allergies hub. And to learn more about COPD, refer to our COPD hub.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

What You Need to Know

Are you taking Symbicort and experiencing weight gain? You’re not alone. Many people who take this medication for asthma or COPD report gaining weight as a side effect. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it?

What is Symbicort?

Symbicort is a combination medication that contains budesonide and formoterol. It is used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Budesonide is a steroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, while formoterol is a bronchodilator that helps to open up the airways.

Why Does Symbicort Cause Weight Gain?

There are a few reasons why Symbicort can cause weight gain. First, steroids like budesonide can increase appetite and cause fluid retention, which can lead to weight gain. Second, formoterol can increase the body’s metabolism, which can also lead to weight gain. Finally, some people may experience weight gain simply because they are feeling better and are able to eat more.

What Can You Do About Symbicort Weight Gain?

If you are experiencing weight gain as a side effect of Symbicort, there are a few things you can do to manage it. First, talk to your doctor about your concerns. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend other treatments that can help. Second, make sure you are eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting regular exercise. This can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall health.

How Can Nao Medical Help?

At Nao Medical, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with medication side effects like weight gain. That’s why we offer comprehensive healthcare services that go beyond just treating your immediate health concerns. Our team of healthcare professionals can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses all of your health needs, including managing medication side effects like weight gain. We offer same-day appointments, minimal wait times, exceptional and empathetic staff, stunning clinic environments, a technologically driven approach with a comprehensive app, and extensive after-hours virtual care. Book an appointment with us today and take control of your health!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side effects of Symbicort?

• Weight gain
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Trouble sleeping
• Tremors
• Increased heart rate

Can Symbicort cause fluid retention?

Yes, steroids like budesonide can cause fluid retention, which can lead to weight gain.

What can I do to manage Symbicort weight gain?

Talk to your doctor about your concerns and make sure you are eating a healthy, balanced diet and getting regular exercise.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered, construed or interpreted as legal or professional advice, guidance or opinion.

How Asthma Affects Weight and Appetite – HealthInfo

If asthma is neglected, it can seriously affect your weight. When it comes to the appetite of people with asthma, doctors and nutritionists first of all worry about those who are not used to restricting themselves in food. After all, this category of patients very quickly gains weight and begins to suffer from obesity. A smaller proportion of asthmatics lose weight. A neglected version of asthma leads to such fatigue that a person does not have the strength to fully eat. In addition, prescribed medications can cause indigestion and thrush in the mouth, which significantly reduces appetite.

Is there a link between asthma and weight gain? There are several reasons. First, parents of children with asthma often try to limit their child’s physical activity as much as possible so as not to cause shortness of breath. Secondly, the side effects of drugs are so often manifested. Although most asthma medications, including inhaled steroids, generally do not affect appetite, the pills can cause some children to eat more than usual.

Experts who have worked with many adult asthma patients who have taken oral steroids for quite a long time find that taking prednisone has a significant effect on appetite. The most significant side effect of this medicine is a constant feeling of hunger, a person wants to eat all the time, as a result of which the usual daily food intake is doubled, and sometimes even tripled. In addition, prednisone slows down the metabolism in the body, and this leads to fluid retention. Ways to help an asthmatic lose weight are no different from the ways that healthy people practice. This is a balanced diet, an active lifestyle and a reduction in the number of calories consumed.

When asthma can cause loss of appetite

Although decreased appetite is less common in people with asthma, it does occur.

Loss of appetite is usually a signal that asthma is advanced and treatment is ineffective. If the patient is “poorly” breathing, their lungs may become “hyperinflated”. They become full faster, as the diaphragm presses on the stomach, which makes it impossible for a person to breathe fully. Some patients with advanced asthma find it so hard to breathe that even eating becomes a problem for them. In this case, doctors recommend eating small portions, but often.

Asthma can so exhaust people that they can’t find the strength to cook their own meals. It happens that there is no strength, not only to cook, but even to eat. As a result, a person eats less and less, and rapidly loses weight. Although long-term use of asthma medications can cause an increase in appetite and, as a result, weight gain, a number of drugs can cause stomach upset and infections in the mouth, making eating a real pain. For example, too high doses of an inhaled steroid cause candidiasis (thrush) of the oral cavity. But using a spacer can reduce the amount of medication deposited in your mouth or throat. And of course, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with water after each use of the inhaler – this also helps prevent stomatitis.

Living With Asthma: How to Eat Right

For people who suffer from loss of appetite due to asthma or medications, here are some tips from the medical profession:

1. Take a daily multivitamin and calcium. The former will provide the body with the necessary substances, and calcium will make up for its deficiency in the body, since many asthma medications reduce the absorption of this element, which can lead to fragility and destruction of bones. Talk to your doctor about which multivitamins are right for you.

2. Breathe evenly while eating. Try to relax by chewing your food and stop eating if you need to catch your breath.

3. When you have the energy, cook two or three servings of your favorite dish and freeze them in the refrigerator. They will come in just right when there is no desire to cook.

4. Buy prepared food to save time and energy. Frozen vegetables of all kinds, prepared meals (make sure they’re as healthy as possible) or home delivery can make your life easier. But don’t overdo it. The portions of sugar, salt, and fat in these foods can be higher than in homemade meals. So don’t abuse it when you feel good.

5. Take on difficult tasks only when you have a lot of energy and strength. Even shopping can be exhausting for an asthmatic, so go shopping when you feel at your best. For example, in the morning or after rest. Or ask someone close to you to make all the necessary purchases.

6. Don’t stand when you can sit. Even in the kitchen, try to cook off your feet.

Prevention of bronchial asthma. – Health School – GBUZ City Polyclinic 25, Krasnodar MH KK

October 25, 2018

Proper use of hormonal drugs

In the treatment of bronchial asthma, various dosage forms of hormonal drugs are used.

1. tablets – in the tablet form, the following most frequently used drugs are available: prednisone, prednisone, triamcinolone (Polkortolone, Berlicort, Kenacort), methylprednisolone (Medrol, Metical Procedic), Dexamethasone, Tales.

These drugs are administered in 2 regimens:

• is prescribed a short course for exacerbation of asthma, usually for 7 to 10 days at a dose of 4 to 8 tablets, depending on the patient’s weight and the degree of exacerbation. Short courses, usually carried out if necessary up to 3-4 times a year, practically do not give complications.

• long-term daily tablets are indicated for the permanent control of asthma when other drugs have failed. The risk of complications associated with treatment, in this case, is higher than with short-term use. This method of treatment is used less and less, as safe inhaled hormones have appeared.

1. Injections of hormonal drugs – prescribed in a hospital for the treatment of an acute severe asthma attack. The indications for long-acting hormones in asthma are very limited.

2. Inhalation products – are designed specifically for the treatment of bronchial asthma. These are effective and safe means for permanent control of the symptoms of the disease. Their advantages over other dosage forms of hormones are as follows: getting directly into the lungs, they have a local effect concentrated only in the lungs, which, firstly, increases their effectiveness, and secondly, unlike tablets and injections, do not affect other organs and systems, that is, the risk of developing complications characteristic of systemic administration (weight gain, increased pressure, etc.) is practically absent.

The longest used inhaler BEKOTID (beclomethasone dipropionate) – about 30 years. This confirms its safety. More modern and effective drugs have appeared, such as PULMICORT, FLUTICAZONE (FLIXOTIDE). Due to their greater effectiveness, they are applied 1 to 2 times a day.

It is important to remember that, unlike inhalers containing bronchodilators (Ventolin, Berotek), inhaled hormone preparations do not help with an acute asthma attack, so they should not be used for this purpose.

In recent years, combined preparations for the treatment of bronchial asthma have appeared, which contain both a bronchodilator and a basic agent, i.e. anti-inflammatory. These drugs include SERETIDE MULTIDISC (contains serevent – a long-acting bronchodilator and a hormonal agent – fluticasone propionate – flixotide). Special delivery device – MULTIDISC , which contains 60 inhalation doses. The use of this drug successfully controls the course of severe asthma, while its appointment is carried out 2 times a day.

Another similar drug is SYMBICORT TURBUCHALER ( contains FORMOTEROL – long-acting bronchodilator and budesonide – a hormonal drug).

When taking inhaled drugs, to increase the effectiveness of their use and reduce the risk of certain side effects, certain rules should also be observed:

1. In the presence of difficulty breathing or wheezing 15-20 minutes before taking the dose of the hormone drug prescribed by the doctor, it is recommended give one inhalation of a bronchodilator . This will dilate the bronchi and cause the hormone aerosol to penetrate deeper into the lungs.

2. Rinse mouth and throat with water after each use of inhaled hormone.

3. It is ideal to use a spacer that facilitates the process of inhalation and facilitates better penetration of the drug into the lungs.

Complications from the use of inhaled hormones are very rare. This is sometimes a hoarseness of voice, and very rarely – candidiasis (thrush). Clinical manifestations of candidiasis: a feeling of itching, the appearance of a whitish film in the mouth. This complication is easily treated and usually does not require discontinuation of the drug. The use of a spacer and thorough rinsing of the mouth after hormone inhalation minimizes the risk of these complications.

Proper intake of inhaled hormone preparations in most cases allows you to successfully control the course of asthma, bypassing the appointment of tablet hormones, and when taking them, reduce the dose, and even completely abandon their use. However, all manipulations to reduce the dose and cancel drugs should be carried out under strict medical supervision.

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