Symbicort Turbohaler

Prescription-only medicine · Respiratory · UK online pharmacy

Symbicort Turbohaler is an inhaled preventative treatment designed to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This treatment combines two powerful active ingredients, budesonide and formoterol fumarate dehydrate, to reduce inflammation and relax the airways, making breathing easier.

Key facts

• Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
• Treatment category: Respiratory
• Price (if prescribed): from £28.49
• Typical supply: 28 days
• Availability: Available following an online consultation
• Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist

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What is Symbicort?

Symbicort Turbohaler is an inhaled preventative treatment designed to manage asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This treatment combines two powerful active ingredients, budesonide and formoterol fumarate dehydrate, to reduce inflammation and relax the airways, making breathing easier.

Symbicort can be used as a standalone treatment for asthma or alongside a reliever inhaler such as Ventolin. It is also prescribed for severe COPD when other long-acting bronchodilators are not effective.

How Does Symbicort Work?

Symbicort contains two active ingredients that work synergistically:

• Budesonide: A corticosteroid that reduces airway inflammation and prevents sensitivity to irritants, reducing the likelihood of asthma attacks.
• Formoterol Fumarate Dehydrate: A long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes airway muscles, widens the airways and allows for better airflow to alleviate breathing difficulties.

Benefits of Using Symbicort

Using Symbicort provides a range of benefits for those managing asthma or COPD:

• Dual Action: Combines anti-inflammatory properties with bronchodilation to improve breathing.
• Long-Lasting Relief: Provides up to 12 hours of relief from symptoms.
• Versatility: Can be used as both a preventer and a reliever for asthma symptoms.
• Simplified Treatment: Combines two medications into one device for convenience.
• Eco-Friendly: A dry powder inhaler (DPI) that is environmentally friendly compared to pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs).

Who Can Use Symbicort?

Symbicort is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who require:

• Long-term management of asthma.
• Treatment for severe COPD with recurrent breathlessness.

Avoid Symbicort if you:

• Are allergic to budesonide, formoterol, or any other ingredients in the medication.
• Suffer from high blood pressure, liver disease, thyroid disorders, or diabetes.

How to Use Symbicort Turbohaler

Symbicort is available in three dosages: 100/6mcg, 200/6mcg, and 400/12mcg. Usage depends on whether it’s for preventative care or as an all-in-one treatment.

Preventative Use:

• Take two inhalations twice daily as directed by your healthcare professional.

Reliever Use:

• If experiencing sudden symptoms, take one inhalation, wait a few minutes, and take a second inhalation if needed.
• Do not exceed six doses in a single instance.

Steps to Use the Turbohaler:

1. Unscrew and remove the protective cover.
2. Hold the inhaler upright with the red grip at the bottom.
3. Twist the grip to load the dose until it clicks.
4. Breathe out gently away from the inhaler.
5. Place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it.
6. Inhale deeply and forcefully through your mouth.
7. Remove the inhaler and hold your breath for a few seconds.
8. Replace the cover and rinse your mouth to prevent oral thrush.

Potential Side Effects

While Symbicort is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience mild side effects such as:

• Heart palpitations.
• Oral thrush.
• Hoarseness or sore throat.
• Headaches.

Preventing Side Effects:

Rinse your mouth with water after each use to reduce the risk of oral thrush.

Seek medical attention if you experience severe side effects or symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling.

Precautions When Using Symbicort

Before starting Symbicort, inform your healthcare professional if you:

• Have a history of tuberculosis, herpes, or high blood pressure.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Are due for surgery.
• Have any conditions affecting your heart, liver, or thyroid.

Buying Symbicort Online from Medihealth Direct

You can buy Symbicort Turbohaler online from Medihealth Direct after completing a free online consultation. One of our healthcare professionals will review your medical history to ensure this treatment is suitable for you. Once approved, your medication will be dispatched with free next-day delivery.

Symbicort FAQs

What type of inhaler is Symbicort?

Symbicort is a preventer inhaler containing a corticosteroid and a long-acting bronchodilator.

Does Symbicort help COPD?

Yes, Symbicort can be used to manage COPD symptoms, especially in severe cases.

Can I buy Symbicort over the counter?

No, Symbicort is a prescription-only medication.

Can Symbicort cause high blood pressure?

Yes, Symbicort may temporarily elevate blood pressure. Consult your healthcare professional if you have concerns.

Is Symbicort safe during pregnancy?

Symbicort should only be used during pregnancy if necessary. Consult your healthcare professional for advice.

Can I drink alcohol with Symbicort?

There is no known interaction between alcohol and Symbicort, but alcohol may increase the risk of side effects.

Is it safe to use Symbicort with other medications?

You should inform your healthcare professional about any other medications you are taking, as some may interact with Symbicort.

How does the online consultation for Symbicort Turbohaler work?

1. Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
2. A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
3. If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.

See how the service works or browse all treatments.