Budesonide + Formoterol
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for budesonide and budesonide
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis , Asthma ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Beta2-Adrenergic Agonist and Corticosteroid
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Budesonide and formoterol are used to treat asthma and COPD, which is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. Asthma causes the airways to become inflamed and narrow, leading to breathing difficulties. COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which are long-term lung conditions that cause breathing problems. This combination helps manage symptoms and improve lung function in these conditions.
Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, works quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, providing immediate relief from symptoms like wheezing. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, reduces inflammation in the airways over time, helping to prevent asthma attacks. Together, they provide both immediate and long-term control of breathing problems.
The usual adult daily dose of budesonide and formoterol depends on the severity of the condition being treated. Typically, the inhaler is used twice a day, with each dose containing a specific amount of budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, and formoterol, which is a bronchodilator. The exact dosage should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and response to treatment.
Common side effects of budesonide and formoterol include throat irritation, headache, and nausea. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, may cause tremors or a fast heartbeat. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, can lead to oral thrush, which is a fungal infection in the mouth. It's important to rinse the mouth after use to prevent thrush and monitor for any unusual symptoms.
Warnings for budesonide and formoterol include not using them for sudden asthma attacks. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, can increase the risk of asthma-related death if used alone. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, can cause immune suppression, making infections more likely. Contraindications include allergies to any ingredients in the medication. Patients should inform their doctor of any medical conditions, especially heart problems or infections, to ensure safe use.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of budesonide and formoterol work?
Budesonide and formoterol work together to manage asthma and COPD symptoms. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, relaxes the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. It acts quickly to provide relief from symptoms like wheezing. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, reduces inflammation in the airways over time, helping to prevent asthma attacks. Together, they provide both immediate and long-term control of breathing problems.
How effective is combination of budesonide and formoterol?
Evidence shows that budesonide and formoterol effectively manage asthma and COPD symptoms. Clinical trials demonstrate that formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, provides quick relief of symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, has been shown to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma attacks over time. Together, they improve overall lung function and quality of life for patients, with studies confirming their combined use is more effective than using either alone.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of budesonide and formoterol?
The usual adult daily dose of budesonide and formoterol depends on the severity of the condition being treated. Typically, the inhaler is used twice a day, with each dose containing a specific amount of budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, and formoterol, which is a bronchodilator. The exact dosage should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and response to treatment. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed it.
How does one take combination of budesonide and formoterol?
Budesonide and formoterol can be taken with or without food, as food does not affect their effectiveness. It's important to use the inhaler as prescribed, usually twice a day, and to rinse the mouth after each use to prevent oral thrush, which is a fungal infection in the mouth. There are no specific food restrictions, but patients should maintain a balanced diet to support overall health. Always follow the healthcare provider's instructions for use.
For how long is combination of budesonide and formoterol taken?
The typical duration of use for budesonide and formoterol varies based on individual needs and the condition being treated. They are often used as long-term maintenance therapy for asthma and COPD, which is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. The duration should be determined by a healthcare provider, who will assess the patient's response to treatment and adjust as necessary. It's important to use the medication regularly for the best results.
How long does it take for combination of budesonide and formoterol to work?
Budesonide and formoterol work together to help manage asthma and COPD, which is a lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. Formoterol, which is a long-acting bronchodilator, starts working quickly, usually within a few minutes, to relax the muscles around the airways and make breathing easier. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, takes longer to work, often several days to weeks, as it reduces inflammation in the airways. Together, they provide both immediate and long-term relief from symptoms.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of budesonide and formoterol?
Common side effects of budesonide and formoterol include throat irritation, headache, and nausea. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, may cause tremors or a fast heartbeat. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, can lead to oral thrush, which is a fungal infection in the mouth. Significant adverse effects may include worsening of asthma symptoms or allergic reactions. It's important to rinse the mouth after use to prevent thrush and monitor for any unusual symptoms.
Can I take combination of budesonide and formoterol with other prescription drugs?
Significant prescription drug interactions with budesonide and formoterol include beta-blockers, which can reduce the effectiveness of formoterol, a bronchodilator. Certain antifungal and antibiotic medications can increase budesonide levels, leading to more side effects. Other interactions include diuretics, which can increase the risk of low potassium levels when used with formoterol. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid interactions and ensure safe use.
Can I take combination of budesonide and formoterol if I am pregnant?
The safety of budesonide and formoterol during pregnancy is not fully established, but they are generally considered when the benefits outweigh the risks. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, is often preferred due to more data supporting its safety. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, should be used with caution. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks, and to ensure the lowest effective dose is used.
Can I take combination of budesonide and formoterol while breastfeeding?
Budesonide and formoterol are generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but caution is advised. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, has low oral bioavailability, meaning it is less likely to affect the baby. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, has limited data, so it should be used only if necessary. Mothers should discuss with their healthcare provider to ensure the benefits outweigh any potential risks and to monitor the infant for any adverse effects.
Who should avoid taking combination of budesonide and formoterol?
Warnings for budesonide and formoterol include not using them for sudden asthma attacks. Formoterol, which is a bronchodilator, can increase the risk of asthma-related death if used alone. Budesonide, which is a corticosteroid, can cause immune suppression, making infections more likely. Contraindications include allergies to any ingredients in the medication. Patients should inform their doctor of any medical conditions, especially heart problems or infections, to ensure safe use.
