Symbicort is a formulation of budesonide (a member of the corticosteroid class of medications) and formoterol (a member of the long-acting beta-agonist class of drugs) that is used to treat asthma. Since it contains both drugs, it naturally contains the side effect profile of both the medications in addition to both their benefits.
Formoterol Effects
Long-acting beta-agonist drugs have been shown to cause serious exacerbation of asthma, including some fatal attacks. It is not known why or to what extent the drug is responsible, but if asthma exacerbations occur, immediate medical attention should be sought. Also, like other inhaled beta-agonists, bronchospasm (wheezing) can occur, which in a few instances have also been life threatening. In this circumstance, cessation of therapy is necessary, and alternative medications must be pursued. Cardiovascular effects are also possible, such as cardiac rhythm disturbances, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure and chest pain. In addition, metabolic abnormalities such as increased blood sugar or low potassium have occurred but were not usually deemed to be significant to cause clinical symptoms.
Budesonide Effects
Budesonide is a corticosteroid which have a well-known history of adverse effects. For instance, they can suppress adrenal function, which have an abundance of effects in the body ranging from fatigue to low blood pressure to decreased sexual function. In addition, it can suppress the immune system, especially in the oral area where it is inhaled; this is why fungal infection like Candida is a well-known effect of inhaled corticosteroid therapy. Growth inhibition in pediatric patients have also been noted, which are made even worse when oral corticosteroid use occurs (such as in very severe asthmatic patients). Osteoporosis is also a possibility as prolonged uses of high dose inhaled corticosteroids decrease bone mineralization. Another rare complication are ocular problems such as cataract formation and difficulties with intraocular pressure, also known as glaucoma. For this reason, patients are recommended to have yearly ophthalmologic exams.
Other Effects
Anaphylaxis is a risk with every medication, and although rare, Symbicort is not an exception. Symptoms like rash, swelling, or urticaria (hives) are possible. Other common side effects include back pain, headache, nausea and vomiting, upper respiratory tract infections, diarrhea, tremor, urinary tract infections, muscle pain, joint pain, migraine and dizziness.
References
- Symbicort (budesonide; formoterol fumarate dihydrate) inhalation aerosol package insert. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca LP; 2006 Jul.
- Respiratory Medicine. "Budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy versus conventional best practice."Demoly P. 01-NOV-2009; 103(11): 1623-32
- Respiratory Medicine. "Safety of budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy in asthma trials." Sears MR. 01-DEC-2009; 103(12): 1960-8
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