Managing asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often requires a reliable and effective medication, and the Symbicort inhaler is a widely prescribed option for many patients. This combination inhaler contains budesonide, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, and formoterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) that relaxes muscles in the airways to improve breathing. Using it correctly is essential for achieving optimal control over symptoms and ensuring the medication reaches your lungs efficiently.
Understanding Your Symbicort Device
Before learning how to use Symbicort, it is important to identify the specific type of device you have, as the technique differs slightly between a metered dose inhaler (MDI) and a dry powder inhaler (DPI). The MDI delivers a fine spray of medication propelled by a gas, requiring coordination between pressing the canister and inhaling. The DPI, on the other hand, relies on your own breath force to draw medication particles out of the device. Using the wrong technique for your device drastically reduces the amount of medicine that reaches your lungs, making it vital to confirm your model.
Step-by-Step Guide for the Metered Dose Inhaler
Preparation and Priming
If you are using the MDI version for the first time or if it has been unused for more than seven days, you must prime it to ensure the correct dose is released. Hold the inhaler upright and spray it into the air away from your face until a fine mist appears. Shake the inhaler vigorously for about five seconds to mix the ingredients properly before each use.
Inhalation Technique
To administer the medication, follow these steps carefully. First, breathe out fully, away from the mouthpiece, to empty your lungs. Next, place the mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips around it, ensuring no air escapes. As you begin to inhale slowly and deeply, press down once on the top of the canister to release a dose. Continue to breathe in as deeply as you can, holding your breath for approximately ten seconds to allow the medication to settle in the airways. Wait about one minute before taking a second puff if prescribed, repeating the same shaking and priming steps if necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide for the Dry Powder Inhaler
Loading the Dose
The DPI requires a different motion that leverages your inhalation speed. Hold the device upright and slide the lever fully away from the mouthpiece until you hear a distinct click. This action loads a fresh dose of the powder into the chamber, preparing it for release. Do not blow into the device or tap it, as this can contaminate the mechanism or waste medication.
Inhalation Technique
When you are ready to inhale, exhale fully away from the device to empty your lungs. Without touching the mouthpiece, place it between your teeth and inhale quickly and forcefully through your mouth. The force of your breath lifts the powder from the chamber and into your lungs. After the dose is complete, remove the inhaler and hold your breath for ten seconds to maximize absorption. Close the lever to return the device to its resting state, protecting the internal mechanism from moisture and damage.
Critical Tips for Maximum Effectiveness
Rinsing your mouth with water and spitting it out after using Symbicort is highly recommended to prevent oral thrush, a fungal infection that can occur with inhaled corticosteroids. It is also crucial to resist the urge to exhale into the mouthpiece, as moisture from your breath can clog the internal components, particularly in the DPI model. Keep track of the number of doses you have used; many devices have a counter, or you may need to mark a calendar to ensure you do not run out of medication unexpectedly.
