Symbicort Flashcards: Budesonide and Formoterol

Questions and Answers

What is the generic name for Symbicort?

Budesonide and Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate

What is the chemical class of Symbicort?

Antiasthmatic (corticosteroid and long acting beta-2-adrenergic agonist) Metered dose

What are the indications for Symbicort?

Treatment of asthma in patients 12 years and older; maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease including chronic bronchitis and emphysema

What are the contraindications for using Symbicort?

Use is contraindicated in the primary treatment of status asthmaticus; risks associated with long-acting beta-2-adrenergic agonists; caution in patients transferring from systemic corticosteroids; and not for rapid relief of bronchospasm. Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of Budesonide and Formoterol?

Budesonide is a steroid with inhibitory activities against multiple cell types; Formoterol acts locally in the lung as a bronchodilator. Signup and view all the answers

What are the common adverse effects of Symbicort?

Upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, headache, vomiting, sinusitis, bronchitis, oral candidiasis, and nasal congestion. Signup and view all the answers

What drug interactions should be considered with Symbicort?

Additive effects with systemic corticosteroids; increased toxicity with other sympathomimetics, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors; strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase plasma levels. Signup and view all the answers

What are the patient counseling points for Symbicort?

Avoid eyes, rinse mouth; contact physician if side effects worsen; if dose missed, skip and return; not for immediate relief; use on a regular basis; benefits may not be seen for 4 weeks; important to know how to use metered dosing. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Symbicort Overview

Generic name: Budesonide and Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate.
Belongs to the antiasthmatic class, combining corticosteroids and long-acting beta-2-adrenergic agonists.

Indications

Approved for asthma treatment in individuals aged 12 and older.
Used for the maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), encompassing chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Contraindications

Not suitable as the primary treatment for status asthmaticus.
Increased risk of asthma-related death associated with long-acting beta-2-adrenergic agonists.
Caution advised for patients transitioning from systemic corticosteroids due to potential adrenal insufficiency.
This medication is ineffective for rapid relief of bronchospasms.
Potential for secondary fungal infections in the mouth.
Precaution necessary for patients with cardiovascular disorders, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, pregnant/nursing women. Pregnancy category C.

Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Budesonide acts as a steroid, demonstrating inhibitory effects on various cell types.
Formoterol serves as a bronchodilator, acting locally in the lungs.

Adverse Effects

Common side effects are usually mild to moderate: includes upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, headaches, vomiting, sinusitis, bronchitis, oral candidiasis, and nasal congestion.

Drug Interactions

Potential for additive effects when used with systemic corticosteroids.
Other sympathomimetics, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors may enhance the toxicity of formoterol.
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors can elevate plasma levels of the medication.

Patient Considerations

Avoid contact with eyes and rinse mouth after use.
Consult a physician if side effects worsen or persist.
If a dose is missed, skip it and continue with the regular schedule.
Not intended for immediate relief; must be used regularly.
Benefits may take up to 4 weeks to manifest.
Ensure understanding of metered dosing techniques.

Description

Test your knowledge on Symbicort, a combination of Budesonide and Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate, with these flashcards. Learn about its chemical class, indications, and more relevant information to better understand its use in treating asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.