Symbicort 160/4.5mcg Rapihaler

Symbicort 160/4.5mcg Rapihaler is a combination inhaler containing budesonide 160mcg, an inhaled corticosteroid, and formoterol fumarate 4.5mcg, a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA), delivered as a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (Rapihaler). It is used for the regular, ongoing treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to control symptoms and reduce flare-ups.

Budesonide reduces airway inflammation and swelling, while formoterol relaxes the smooth muscle around the airways, widening them to make breathing easier. Together they provide both anti-inflammatory control and bronchodilation.

Budesonide acts locally in the airways to reduce inflammatory cell activity and swelling of the airway lining, while formoterol stimulates beta-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle, causing it to relax and the airways to widen (bronchodilation), improving airflow.

Shake Symbicort 160/4.5mcg Rapihaler well before each use. Breathe out gently, place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it, then breathe in slowly and deeply while pressing down on the canister, holding your breath for about 10 seconds afterwards. Rinse your mouth with water after use and spit it out, without swallowing, to reduce the risk of oral thrush and hoarseness. Do not use this inhaler for sudden breathlessness unless your doctor has specifically prescribed it for that purpose.

The usual dose is 1-2 inhalations twice daily, or as specifically directed by your doctor, who will determine the appropriate strength and regimen (including whether it is used only for maintenance or also as a reliever) based on the severity of your asthma or COPD.

Use this product before the expiry date stated on the packaging. Do not use the medicine if the expiry date has passed.

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

• Known hypersensitivity to budesonide, formoterol, or any component of this product
• Should not be used as a rescue inhaler for acute bronchospasm unless specifically prescribed for that purpose
• Use with caution in patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis or untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral respiratory infections
• Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, including arrhythmias, due to the beta-agonist component

• Other beta-agonist medicines (e.g. salbutamol) may have an additive effect and increase the risk of palpitations or tremor
• Beta-blockers may reduce the effectiveness of the formoterol component and should generally be avoided
• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase budesonide levels and the risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects
• Diuretics may increase the risk of low blood potassium when combined with beta-agonists

• Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after every use to help prevent oral thrush
• Use this inhaler regularly as prescribed, even when you feel well, for it to control your condition effectively
• Carry a separate fast-acting reliever inhaler as advised by your doctor for sudden symptoms, unless your doctor has specifically prescribed this inhaler for that purpose
• Seek medical advice if you need to use your reliever inhaler more often than usual, as this may mean your asthma or COPD is not well controlled