SYMBICORT 160/4.5mcg Turbuhaler 60's

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS(s)

Budesonide Formoterol

DO I NEED A PRESCRIPTION?

This medicine requires a doctor's prescription. It falls under 'Prescription Only Medicine (POM)'.

ABOUT THIS MEDICATION

This medicine is an inhaler which is used to help control symptoms in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a disease affecting the lungs which make it harder for the person to breathe as the disease gets worse. This inhaler contains two ingredients, formoterol and budesonide. Formoterol helps to keep the airways open, making it easier for air to move in and out of the lungs. Budesonide is a type of steroid and helps to reduce and prevent swelling and inflammation in the airways. Symbicort is normally referred to as a ’preventer’ or ‘controller’ inhaler as it helps to prevent symptoms such as breathlessness in asthma and COPD. It can also help to reduce the chances of having an asthma attack. In some cases, the doctor will also ask you to use Symbicort to relieve asthma attacks.

HOW SHOULD YOU USE THIS MEDICINE?

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. Use your Symbicort inhaler regularly as directed. Do not stop using the inhaler without checking with your healthcare professional, even if you feel well or there are no symptoms. Preparing the inhaler before use: 1. ​Shake the inhaler gently. 2. For a new inhaler, release 2 puffs into the air. ​3. For inhalers that have not been used for more than a week or have been dropped, release 2 puffs into the air. Administering the medication: 1. ​Shake the inhaler before use. ​2. ​Remove the mouthpiece cover. ​3. Hold the inhaler upright in front of your mouth. Breathe out as far as you can and put the mouthpiece in your mouth (between your teeth) and close your lips around it. ​4. Start to breathe in deeply and slowly through your mouth. Press down firmly on the counter to release the medication at the same time. ​5. Remove the inhaler from your mouth. Hold your breath for approximately 10 seconds or for as long as comfortable. ​6. Shake the inhaler then repeat Steps 3 to 5 if another puff is required. ​7. Put the mouthpiece cover back to the original position to prevent dust and debris from accumulating. ​8. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Cleaning the inhaler: ​1. Remove the mouthpiece cover. ​2. Wipe the inside and outside of the mouthpiece with a clean, dry cloth. ​3. Replace the mouthpiece cover. ​4. It is recommended to clean the inhaler at least once a week. Do not put the inhaler in water or dismantle the inhaler

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF THIS MEDICINE?

This medication may cause the following side effects: - Increase chance of experiencing throat irritation, oral fungal infection (seen as white patches in mouth), hoarseness of voice and coughing - Dizziness - Headache The dizziness and headache may happen but should get better over time. Check with your doctor if any of these symptoms are serious or do not go away. Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

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MIMS