Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate Pressurized ... Health Article

Generic name(s):

Budesonide, Formoterol Fumarate Pressurized inhalation, powder

Brand name(s):

Symbicort

What is this medicine?

BUDESONIDE; FORMOTEROL (byoo DES oh nide; for MOH te rol) inhalation is a combination of two medicines that decrease inflammation and help to open up the airways in your lungs. It is used to treat asthma. Do NOT use in an acute asthma attack.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diabetes
• heart disease or irregular heartbeat
• high blood pressure
• infection
• liver disease
• osteoporosis
• an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, formoterol, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is inhaled through the mouth. Follow the directions on your prescription label. After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth with water. Make sure not to swallow the water. Do not use more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice. Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule, spacing doses evenly. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
• mifepristone
• probucol
• procarbazine
• some other medicines for asthma like formoterol, salmeterol

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• antibiotics like clarithromycin, erythromycin
• cimetidine
• diuretics
• grapefruit juice
• itraconazole
• ketoconazole
• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
• medicines for irregular heartbeat
• methadone
• some heart medicines like atenolol, metoprolol
• some other medicines for breathing problems
• some vaccines

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.