Description

Description

Symbidow (200/6mcg) is a prescription combination medicine used in the long-term management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly known as COPD. It combines budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, with formoterol, a long-acting bronchodilator, delivered through a dry powder inhaler device rather than in tablet or capsule form for swallowing. This combination is designed to reduce airway inflammation while also relaxing and opening the airways, helping patients breathe more easily and reducing the frequency of asthma or COPD flare-ups. This pack contains 30 capsules, each intended for use with the corresponding inhaler device, offering a supply for ongoing daily respiratory management.

Ingredients

Each Symbidow capsule contains budesonide 200 mcg together with formoterol fumarate dihydrate 6 mcg. Budesonide is a corticosteroid that works by binding to glucocorticoid receptors in the airway cells, helping to reduce inflammation, swelling, and mucus production in the lungs. Formoterol is a long-acting beta-2 agonist that stimulates beta-2 receptors in the airway muscles, causing them to relax and open up, which makes breathing easier. Together, these two ingredients target both the inflammatory and the physical narrowing components of respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD.

Dosage Form

Symbidow is supplied as capsules intended strictly for inhalation using a compatible dry powder inhaler device, and it must never be swallowed. Each capsule is placed into the inhaler, which pierces it to release the powder for inhalation directly into the lungs. Patients should be shown the correct technique for using the device by a healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure the medicine is delivered effectively.

Uses

Symbidow is used for the prevention and control of asthma symptoms, helping to reduce airway hyperresponsiveness and lower the frequency of asthma attacks over time. It is also used in the long-term management of COPD, easing shortness of breath, chest tightness, and breathing difficulty associated with the condition. Because formoterol is long-acting, Symbidow is intended for regular maintenance use rather than for providing immediate relief during a sudden asthma attack or COPD flare-up, for which a separate fast-acting reliever inhaler is usually required.

How to Use

Symbidow should be used exactly as prescribed by a doctor, with the capsule loaded into the inhaler device and inhaled according to the manufacturer’s instructions for that specific device. It is intended for inhalation only and must never be swallowed or used with any other type of inhaler. Dosing is typically twice daily, though the exact frequency and number of inhalations should follow the doctor’s guidance based on the severity of the condition being treated. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped rather than doubled. Treatment should not be stopped suddenly, especially in asthma, and any changes should be made gradually under medical supervision.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Symbidow can include throat irritation, hoarseness, headache, and a mild increase in heart rate. Some patients may notice tremors or nervousness, particularly when treatment is first started. Because the medicine is inhaled, there is also a risk of oral thrush, a fungal infection in the mouth, which can often be reduced by rinsing the mouth with water after each use. Less commonly, more serious effects such as a noticeable increase in blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or signs of an allergic reaction can occur, and these should be reported to a doctor promptly. Sudden worsening of breathing after using the inhaler, known as paradoxical bronchospasm, is rare but requires immediate medical attention.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Symbidow should only be used during pregnancy if a doctor determines that the benefits of controlling asthma or COPD symptoms outweigh any potential risks, since uncontrolled respiratory conditions can themselves pose risks during pregnancy. Similarly, it should only be used while breastfeeding under a doctor’s guidance, as it is not fully established how much of the medicine passes into breast milk. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should discuss their respiratory treatment plan with their doctor before starting or continuing this medicine.

Storage Instructions

Symbidow capsules should be stored at room temperature, generally below 25 degrees Celsius, and protected from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. They should be kept in their original packaging until ready for use and stored safely out of the reach of children. The capsules should not be used after their printed expiry date has passed.

FAQs

Is a prescription required to buy Symbidow? Yes, Symbidow is a prescription-only medicine and should only be used under a doctor’s guidance. Can Symbidow capsules be swallowed? No, they are intended strictly for inhalation using the compatible device and must never be swallowed. Can Symbidow be used for sudden asthma attacks? No, it is a maintenance medicine for long-term control and is not intended to provide immediate relief during a sudden attack; a separate fast-acting reliever inhaler is needed for that purpose. Why is rinsing the mouth after use recommended? Rinsing helps reduce the risk of oral thrush, a fungal infection that can occur with inhaled corticosteroids like budesonide.

Disclaimer

Always use this medicine strictly according to your doctor’s instructions and prescribed dosage.