Symbicort 160 Turbuhaler

Medically Reviewed by

Dr. Akanksha Kaushal

Dr. Akanksha, Pharm-D

Dr. Akansha is a licensed Clinical Pharmacologist with extensive expertise in pharmacovigilance, prescription analysis, drug information, and safety. She's a dedicated educator and avid learner. Dr. Akansha also reviews medical content on GoodRxMedicine, ensuring accurate pharmaceutical information is accessible to all.

Written by

Julian Carter

Julian Carter

Julian, an MBA in Pharmaceutical Management, brings a dynamic blend of expertise and impact with his contributions at GoodRxMedicine. His dedication and innovative spirit continue to shape a brighter future in pharmaceutical management.

What is Symbicort Turbuhaler 160​?

Symbicort Turbuhaler 160/4.5 is a preventative inhaler for respiratory conditions. It manages Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) by lowering inflammation and relaxing airway muscles to improve breathing. 

This chronic respiratory disease inhaler has two active ingredients: Budesonide, a corticosteroid that lowers inflammation in the airways, and Formoterol, a Long-acting Beta-2 Agonist that opens the airways, allowing you to breathe easier.

The trusted AstraZeneca pharmaceutical manufactures this inhaler.

Uses of Symbicort Turbuhaler 160​

Symbicort 160/4.5 Turbuhaler uses​ include:

• Controls and prevents Asthma symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Reduces inflammation and improves respiratory function in COPD, thereby relieving symptoms.
• Used as an effective long-term therapy to avoid Asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups.
• Quickly relieves breathing issues caused by airway constriction.
• Helps to open airways and maintain good respiratory health.

Working and benefits of Formoterol and Budesonide

Formoterol in Symbicort Turbuhaler 160/4.5 ​is a Long-acting Beta-2 Agonist (LABA) that relaxes airway muscles, allowing them to open up and breathe more easily. It causes rapid and long-lasting Bronchodilation, which helps reduce symptoms, including wheezing and shortness of breath. 

Budesonide is a corticosteroid that lowers airway inflammation and swelling, helping to avoid Asthma and COPD flare-ups. Together, they act to enhance lung function, reduce symptoms, and give instant and long-term respiratory relief.

Benefits of Formoterol and Budesonide include:

• Improves breathing: Opens airways and reduces inflammation, allowing for easier respiration.
• Long-lasting relief: Provides prolonged Bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Prevents Asthma attacks: Reduces airway sensitivity and flare-ups.
• Manages COPD symptoms: Helps manage persistent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Fast-acting Bronchodilation: Formoterol provides immediate symptom reduction.
• Reduces airway swelling: Budesonide reduces inflammation and mucus production by lowering inflammation.
• Improves lung function: Promotes improved oxygen flow and respiratory health.
• Dual-action therapy: Budesonide and Formoterol inhalation therapy combines Bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory actions to provide overall management.

Dosage and how to use Symbicort Turbuhaler 160​

It is advisable to use the inhaler as suggested by your doctor for maximum benefits. Here are some common usage instructions:

• Use the inhaler regularly for effectiveness.
• Shake the inhaler and press down to release a puff of medicine. Hold your breath for 10 seconds. Repeat till the required number of puffs.
• Rinse your mouth and throat after inhaling to avoid oral thrush and hoarseness.
• Follow your doctor’s prescription for dosage and frequency.

Side effects

Although well-tolerated, Symbicort Turbuhaler 160 inhaler can lead to some side effects, including:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Cough
• Oral thrush (fungal infection)

However, these Symbicort Turbuhaler 160/4.5 side effects are generally mild and short-lived. They often subside once your body adapts to the medicine. If they persist or bother you, contact your healthcare provider immediately for help.

Interactions

Symbicort Turbuhaler 160​ can potentially interact with certain medications, diseases, and food products, decreasing the medication’s effectiveness or enhancing the probability of side effects.

Drug interactions

The following medicines may affect the efficacy of this inhaler, potentially leading to side effects:

• Beta-blockers
• Diuretics
• Other corticosteroids
• Antifungal and antiviral medications
• Tricyclic antidepressants

This is not the complete list of medications that interact with Symbicort inhalers. Contact your doctor for the complete list of medications and further guidance.

Disease interactions

Symbicort inhaler can majorly interact with the following health problems, making your condition worse:

• Cardiovascular issues: Symbicort can impair heart function; thus, persons with cardiovascular disorders should exercise caution.
• Diabetes: It might affect blood sugar levels, necessitating cautious monitoring in diabetic individuals.
• Hypokalemia: Symbicort may reduce potassium levels, necessitating monitoring and perhaps supplementation.

Food interactions 

The following food products should be avoided while using this inhaler to minimize the risk of any side effects:

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: Can raise Budesonide levels in the body, enhancing the chances of adverse effects.
• Caffeine-containing foods (e.g., coffee, tea, chocolate): May boost Formoterol's stimulant effects, resulting in jitteriness, palpitations, or accelerated heart rate.
• High-sodium foods: Excess salt can cause fluid retention and worsen problems like High Blood Pressure.
• Alcohol: It may cause dizziness or impair the immune system, lowering the medication's efficacy.

Precautions

The following precautionary measures must be taken while using Symbicort Turbuhaler 160​:

• When using a Symbicort inhaler for the first time, prime it by shaking it vigorously for 5 seconds before spraying it away from your face.
• Do not breathe into the Turbuhaler since moisture might cause it to get blocked.
• Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, want to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor if you've had an allergy to Budesonide, Formoterol, or Lactose.
• Seek medical treatment if you experience increased wheezing, chest tightness, or trouble breathing shortly after inhaling Symbicort.

Why buy from us

Choose GoodRxMedicine for an effortless medicine purchase because we offer:

• Genuine medicines from trusted sellers
• Significant discounts compared to other pharmacies
• Easy ordering procedure from the comfort of your home
• Timely and secure delivery
• 24/7 customer support
• Variety of medications and brands in one place
• Safe and reliable payment gateway

FAQs

Can I use the Symbicort Turbuhaler 160 with a spacer? 

No. Symbicort Turbuhaler is a dry powder inhaler that doesn't need a spacer. However, if you are unclear on utilizing it, consult your healthcare expert for further guidance and support.

What should I do if I get adverse effects from the Symbicort Turbuhaler inhaler? 

If you experience adverse symptoms, such as chest discomfort, severe dizziness, or irregular heartbeat, get medical treatment immediately. Consult your doctor if you have any mild side effects or concerns.

How long can I take Symbicort Turbuhaler 160? 

If your doctor has recommended Symbicort, you can use it for an extended period of time. However, regular follow-ups are required to assess its efficacy and alter doses as necessary.

Does Symbicort Turbuhaler interfere with vaccines? 

Yes, corticosteroids in this inhaler, such as Budesonide, might decrease your immune system, thus reducing the effectiveness of vaccines. So check your doctor before receiving any live vaccinations while taking Symbicort.

Does Symbicort Turbuhaler inhaler promote weight gain? 

Yes. Weight gain is not a typical adverse effect, although corticosteroids like Budesonide in this inhaler may cause water retention in the body or metabolic abnormalities, resulting in gradual weight gain.