Information about Foracort 400 Synchrobreathe Inhaler
The Foracort 400 Synchrobreathe Inhaler is a medication used to manage and treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It combines two active ingredients: budesonide, a corticosteroid, and formoterol fumarate, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA). This combination helps to control and prevent symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Key Features of Foracort 400 Synchrobreathe Inhaler
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Active Ingredients:
- Budesonide: A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways, decreasing swelling and irritation.
- Formoterol Fumarate: A long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes muscles in the airways to improve breathing.
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Mechanism of Action:
- Budesonide works by reducing inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier.
- Formoterol helps to open up the airways by relaxing the muscles around them, providing long-lasting relief from bronchospasm (tightening of the muscles around the airways).
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Indications:
- Maintenance treatment of asthma in patients who require regular treatment with a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist.
- Treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
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Dosage and Administration:
- The inhaler is typically used twice daily (morning and evening), with specific doses prescribed by a healthcare provider based on the severity of the condition.
- The "400" in Foracort 400 indicates the amount of budesonide (400 micrograms) per dose. The amount of formoterol is usually standardized in combination inhalers.
- The Synchrobreathe inhaler is designed to be easy to use, with breath-actuated technology that releases the medication when the patient inhales, making it more convenient for patients who have difficulty timing their inhalation with traditional inhalers.
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Precautions and Side Effects:
- Common side effects may include headache, throat irritation, hoarseness, and oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth). Rinsing the mouth with water after use can help prevent oral thrush.
- Serious side effects may include worsening breathing problems, changes in vision, or signs of infection.
- Not intended for use as a rescue inhaler during acute asthma attacks.
- Patients should not abruptly stop using the inhaler without consulting their healthcare provider, as this could lead to a worsening of symptoms.
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Usage Tips:
- It is essential to use the inhaler regularly and at the same time each day for the best effect.
- Patients should learn the correct inhalation technique to ensure they receive the correct dosage.
Important Notes
- Patients using Foracort 400 should be regularly monitored by their healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and adjust dosages as needed.
- The combination of a corticosteroid and a LABA is a common approach in treating persistent asthma and COPD, providing both anti-inflammatory effects and long-acting bronchodilation.
As with any medication, it's crucial to follow the prescribing doctor's instructions and report any side effects or concerns.