Asthma and COPD are two debilitating conditions that can drastically reduce an individual’s quality of life - but with Symbicort Inhalers, they don’t have to. Symbicort inhalers are one of the best treatments for asthma and COPD which can cause breathlessness, wheezing and uncontrollable coughing due to the lack of airflow into the lungs. Though the severity of asthma and COPD will affect which treatments will provide the best results. Many are reporting wonderful news when it comes to Symbicort, seeing noticeable results with continuous use. If you have asthma, COPD or another relevant respiratory condition, Symbicort may be able to help. Read on to learn more about Symbicort inhalers and what they can do for you.
What are Symbicort Inhalers?
Symbicort is a drug that features a combination of two drugs used to fight respiratory conditions. The drug contains a combination of budesonide and formoterol. Budesonide, a steroids works to reduce inflammation in the body, and in this case, the lungs in particular. Formoteral is a bronchodilator that acts as a muscle relaxer, to relax the muscles of the airway to promote improved breathing. Together these drugs work to reduce the various symptoms caused by asthma and/or COPD. It is taken twice a day by an adult everyday prescribed.
Highlights:
- Combination of budesonide and formoterol
- Reduces inflammation
- Relaxes the muscles of the airways
Who Takes Symbicort?
Symbicort is meant for patients with COPD or severe cases of asthma. Because it is not meant to be used for long term, it may be used in cases where long term treatment does not work. Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes may not be eligible to take Symbicort. Additionally those with epilepsy, glaucoma, liver disease or a weakened immune system may be advised against taking Symbicort. Pregnant women may also be advised against Symbicort as it passes into breast milk when feeding, and can be harmful to babies.
Highlights:
- Should not be taken by pregnant women
- Good for severe asthma
- Patients with high blood pressure and heart disease should be advised
Side Effects of Symbicort
Symbicort comes with its fair share of side effects. Common side effects include white patches around the mouth and stomach discomfort. As with most inhalers, irritation of the throat is also common. Other side effects include back pain, cold and flu symptoms. More severe but less common symptoms may include infection, high blood sugar, and pneumonia. Some individuals may experience blurred vision, wheezing, low potassium levels and even worsening of asthma symptoms.
Highlights:
- Asthma symptoms may worsen
- May produce cold and flu symptoms
- Some discomfort to be expected after taking medication
Savings
With the AZhelps saving program, patients may be able to get their initial prescription for Symbicort for absolutely free. And with the help of the savings program, additional refills can cost less than $25. Patients can save on up to 12 refills. Both insured patients and Medicare/Medicaid patients can collect on this offer provided they have a valid prescription. The savings card expire on December 31st 2017.
Highlights:
- May be absolutely free for some patients
- Good for 12 refills
- Card expires on December 31st 2017
Conclusion
Symbicort is the ideal prescription for those suffering from COPD or severe asthma. Due to the harsh effects on the body, it is not ideal for milder cases or those with heart conditions and weakend immune systems. With an optional savings program, patients can get their first initial inhaler for free, and the following inhalers for less than $25 per month. If you have asthma or COPD, talk to your doctor about Symbicort to learn more.