How to Use a Symbicort Inhaler: A Comprehensive Guide + Expert Insights

YouTube can be a fantastic resource for learning how to use a Symbicort inhaler correctly. Typically, a helpful YouTube video will demonstrate a step-by-step guide including: shaking the inhaler well, priming the inhaler if it’s new or hasn’t been used recently, exhaling completely, placing the mouthpiece in your mouth, inhaling deeply and slowly while pressing down on the canister, holding your breath for 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable), and rinsing your mouth with water afterwards without swallowing.

Mastering Your Symbicort Inhaler Technique: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Let’s face it: effectively managing conditions like asthma and COPD hinges on mastering the seemingly simple, yet crucial, act of using your Symbicort inhaler correctly. And while your doctor and pharmacist provide invaluable initial instruction, sometimes a visual guide is exactly what you need. YouTube offers a treasure trove of demonstrations. However, let’s delve into the process with the kind of detail you won’t always find in a quick video.

1. Preparation is Key: Shake, Shake, Shake!

Before each dose, give your Symbicort inhaler a good shake – we’re talking a vigorous 5-10 seconds. Why? Because Symbicort is a combination medication. It contains both a corticosteroid (budesonide) to reduce inflammation and a long-acting beta-agonist (formoterol) to open airways. Shaking ensures these two components are properly mixed, delivering the correct dose of each medication. Think of it like shaking a bottle of salad dressing – you need to distribute the ingredients evenly!

2. Priming for Success: First Use or After a Break

Is this a brand new Symbicort inhaler, or has it been sitting unused for more than a week? If so, you need to prime it. Priming ensures the inhaler is working correctly and dispenses the medication properly. To prime, remove the cap and shake the inhaler well. Then, press down on the canister firmly, releasing a puff into the air, away from your face. Repeat this step once more. Your Symbicort inhaler is now primed and ready for action.

3. Exhale Deeply: Empty Your Lungs

Before you even bring the inhaler to your mouth, take a deep breath out and exhale completely. This empties your lungs, creating space for the medication to travel deep into your airways. Imagine trying to fill a glass that’s already full – it just won’t work! A complete exhale prepares your lungs to receive the full benefit of the Symbicort.

4. Seal the Deal: Proper Mouthpiece Placement

Place the Symbicort inhaler mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips tightly around it, creating a good seal. The key is to prevent any medication from escaping around your mouth. Think of it like creating a vacuum – you want all the medication to go directly into your lungs.

5. Inhale and Actuate: The Critical Coordination

This is where the magic happens – the simultaneous inhalation and actuation. As you begin to inhale slowly and deeply through your mouth, press down firmly on the canister of the Symbicort inhaler. This releases the medication into your breath stream. The trick here is to coordinate the two actions seamlessly. A slow, deep breath allows the medication to travel further into your lungs than a short, shallow one.

6. Hold Your Breath: Give it Time to Work

After inhaling the medication, remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for approximately 10 seconds, or as long as you comfortably can. This allows the budesonide and formoterol to deposit in your lungs and begin working. Imagine the medication settling into your lungs, coating the airways, and starting to reduce inflammation and open the passages.

7. Exhale Gently: Don’t Force It

After holding your breath, exhale slowly and gently through pursed lips. Think of blowing out a candle without extinguishing it. Avoid coughing immediately after inhaling, as this can expel some of the medication before it has a chance to be absorbed.

8. Rinse and Spit: Prevent Thrush

This is a crucial step often overlooked: rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after each use of your Symbicort inhaler, and spit the water out. Do not swallow the water. The corticosteroid component, budesonide, can sometimes lead to oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth). Rinsing your mouth helps to remove any residual medication and prevent this side effect.

9. Cleaning and Storage: Keeping it in Tip-Top Shape

Keep your Symbicort inhaler clean. Wipe the mouthpiece regularly with a dry cloth. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Never wash or submerge the inhaler in water.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Symbicort Inhaler Use

Here are some frequently asked questions to further enhance your understanding of using a Symbicort inhaler effectively:

1. What happens if I forget to shake my Symbicort inhaler before use?

While not ideal, using a Symbicort inhaler without shaking it won’t necessarily be harmful. However, you may not receive the optimal dose of both medications. Make it a habit to always shake well before each use.

2. How do I know when my Symbicort inhaler is empty?

The Symbicort inhaler usually has a dose counter that shows how many puffs are remaining. When the counter reaches zero, the inhaler is empty and you need a refill.

3. Can I use a spacer with my Symbicort inhaler?

Symbicort is designed to be used without a spacer. Using a spacer with a Symbicort inhaler is generally not recommended, as it may not deliver the medication as effectively. Consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you have difficulty coordinating inhalation with actuation.

4. What are the common side effects of using a Symbicort inhaler?

Common side effects can include a sore throat, hoarseness, upper respiratory infection, headache, and nausea. Oral thrush is also a potential side effect, which is why rinsing your mouth is so important.

5. How often should I use my Symbicort inhaler?

Your doctor will prescribe the specific dosage and frequency of use for your Symbicort inhaler. It’s crucial to follow their instructions carefully. Typically, it’s used twice daily.

6. What should I do if I accidentally take too much Symbicort?

If you accidentally take more Symbicort than prescribed, contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency room. Symptoms of an overdose can include a rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and tremors.

7. Can I use Symbicort as a rescue inhaler?

No. Symbicort is a maintenance inhaler and is not intended for immediate relief of asthma or COPD symptoms. You will still need a separate rescue inhaler (like albuterol) for quick relief of sudden breathing difficulties.

8. Is it safe to use Symbicort during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They can weigh the risks and benefits of using Symbicort in your specific situation.

9. Can I share my Symbicort inhaler with someone else?

No. Your Symbicort inhaler is prescribed specifically for you and your condition. Sharing medications can be dangerous.

10. What if I experience a bad taste in my mouth after using Symbicort?

A bad taste is common and usually resolves quickly. Rinsing your mouth with water after each use can help minimize this.

11. How should I dispose of my empty Symbicort inhaler?

Check with your local pharmacy or waste disposal services for proper disposal instructions. Some pharmacies offer medication take-back programs.

12. Can I travel with my Symbicort inhaler?

Yes. When traveling with your Symbicort inhaler, keep it in its original packaging with the prescription label. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your prescription. Ensure that the medication is easily accessible, and not stored in checked baggage.

By following these detailed instructions and addressing common questions, you can confidently and effectively use your Symbicort inhaler to manage your respiratory condition. Remember to always consult with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice and guidance. Breathe easy!