Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler

Dr. Emily Brown

Dr. Ryan Mitchell

## What is the Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler

Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler is a prescription-only inhalation medicine prescribed for managing the symptoms of Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It includes two FDA-approved active salts; Budesonide (160 mcg), an inhaled corticosteroid and Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate (4.5 mcg), a Long-acting Beta2-agonist (LABA), per inhalation. It is manufactured by AstraZeneca in a GMP-compliant facility.

Budesonide minimizes inflammation and swelling in the airways, while Formoterol relaxes the airway muscles, keeping the breathing passageways open for up to 12 hours. They work together to enhance breathing, decrease wheezing, and avoid Asthma or COPD flare-ups.

Use Symbicort turbuhaler exactly as directed by your doctor, usually 2 puffs twice daily. If you miss a dosage, take it as soon as you recall, unless it is nearly time for your next regular dose. Don’t double the dosage. An overdose can lead to chest discomfort, strong tremors, a fast heartbeat, or difficulty breathing, requiring immediate medical help.

Frequently reported adverse effects include headache, sore throat, cough, hoarseness, oral thrush, tremor, and palpitations. Get urgent medical assistance if you develop severe allergic reactions, worsening breathing after inhalation, or persistent chest pain.

Avoid using this medicine if you are allergic to Budesonide, Formoterol, or any of its components. Use with caution in patients with heart disease, Diabetes, Glaucoma, Osteoporosis, thyroid disorders, or liver impairment.

It should not be used as the primary treatment for acute Asthma attacks or severe bronchospasm, where a fast-acting rescue inhaler is required instead. Store the turbuhaler at room temperature in a dry place with the cap tightly closed, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.

## What are the benefits of using Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler

Symbicort combines Budesonide and Formoterol to provide long-term control of airway inflammation and improve breathing in conditions such as Asthma and COPD. Budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, reduces swelling, mucus production, and airway irritation, making the airways less sensitive to triggers.

Formoterol, a Long-acting Beta-2 Agonist, relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways, keeping them open for up to 12 hours. This dual mechanism improves airflow, supports easier breathing, and helps maintain better lung function with regular use.

The key benefits include:

Helps maintain long-term control of airway inflammation.

Improves airflow for easier and more comfortable breathing.

Decreases the frequency and severity of Asthma or COPD flare-ups.

Provides long-lasting symptom relief with twice-daily dosing.

Supports better lung function and improved quality of life.

Lowers the need for frequent use of a rescue inhaler when used regularly as prescribed.

## How does Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler work

Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler typically begins working within 1 to 3 minutes after inhalation due to its bronchodilator component, Formoterol, which rapidly relaxes the airway muscles. It reaches peak bronchodilator effect within 1 to 3 hours, while the anti-inflammatory effects of Budesonide develop over several days to 2 weeks with regular use.

Symbicort’s bronchodilator effects last for approximately 12 hours. Food and alcohol do not significantly affect its action, but consistent use, correct inhaler technique, dosage strength, and individual response can influence how quickly it works. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on timing.

## How to use Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler

Use Symbicort turbuhaler precisely as directed by your doctor. Some general usage instructions include:

Inhale this turbuhaler at the same time each day, at regularly spaced intervals, preferably in the morning and evening.

Unscrew the cap, hold the inhaler upright, twist the grip completely in one direction and back until it clicks to load a dose. Exhale away from the device, inhale deeply through the mouthpiece, hold on to your breath for about 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.

Rinse your mouth after each use to minimize the likelihood of oral thrush.

The usual standard dose for adults is 2 puffs two times a day, depending on the severity of the condition and individual response.

## Strengths and Substitutes

At present, Cheap Medicine Shop carries Symbicort turbuhaler in three strengths; 80 mcg, 160 mcg, and 320 mcg. If your prescription demands another strength, contact your doctor before choosing from the following available substitutes:

View all substitutes

## What are the side effects of Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler

Like all medications, this turbuhaler can cause mild side effects, including:

Sore throat

Headache

Hoarseness

Back pain

Nervousness

These reactions disappear as your body gets used to the medicine. Contact your doctor if they persist or intensify.

## Safety Advice

Liver Disease

People with liver disease should use Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler cautiously , as impaired liver function could increase the levels of Formoterol in the body due to slow removal of the medication. Your doctor could recommend regular monitoring and adjust treatment if necessary, especially in cases of severe liver impairment.

Kidney Impairment

Symbicort turbuhaler can generally be used in people with kidney impairment, as no routine dose adjustment is usually required. However, patients with severe kidney disease should use it under strict medical supervision and report any unusual or persistent side effects.

Pregnant and Breastfeeding women

Symbicort should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the clinical benefits outweigh the potential risks to the baby. While inhaled steroids are generally preferred for managing Asthma, always discuss safe options with your doctor first.

Avoid

Although there is no known direct interaction between alcohol and Symbicort turbuhaler, it should be avoided during the treatment, as it could worsen Asthma symptoms or increase the risk of dizziness and other side effects. This turbuhaler can interact with beta-blockers, diuretics, antifungal medicines, HIV medicines, and other bronchodilators.

## FAQs

## What is Symbicort 160 used for?

Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler is used for the long-term treatment and control of Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It helps reduce airway inflammation, keeps the airways open, improves breathing, and lowers the risk of flare-ups when used regularly.

## Is Symbicort good for cough?

Symbicort could help relieve a cough caused by Asthma or COPD by reducing airway inflammation and improving airflow. However, it is not intended to treat coughs caused by infections, allergies, or other non-respiratory conditions without medical evaluation.

## How many puffs are in a Symbicort 160 inhaler?

A Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler typically contains 120 inhalations (puffs). The exact number could vary depending on the product pack available in your country. Always check the inhaler label or package information before use.

## Why should I rinse my mouth after using Symbicort turbuhaler?

Rinsing your mouth with water after each dose helps remove any remaining medication from the mouth and throat. This reduces the likelihood of developing oral thrush (fungal infection), hoarseness, and throat irritation. Spit out the water after rinsing.

## How long does it take for Symbicort Turbuhaler to improve Asthma or COPD symptoms?

Formoterol starts working within a few minutes to improve breathing, while Budesonide gradually reduces airway inflammation. Although some people notice improvement within a day, the full benefits of regular treatment could take 1–2 weeks or longer.

## What should I do if I miss a dose of Symbicort turbuhaler?

If you miss a dose of Symbicort turbuhaler, take it as soon as you recall. However, if it is almost time for your upcoming dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular dosing schedule. Never take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.

## Can Symbicort 160 mcg/4.5 mcg turbuhaler help prevent exercise-induced Asthma symptoms?

Yes, when prescribed by your doctor, Symbicort 160mcg/4.5mcg turbuhaler could help reduce exercise-induced Asthma symptoms by improving airway control. However, follow your prescribed treatment plan, and do not use it differently without consulting your healthcare provider.