Breztri ^*

Breztri is a long-term, daily maintenance medication used to manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups in adults with moderate to severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It is not used for asthma or for immediate relief of sudden breathing problems. For acute symptoms, you should use a rescue inhaler as prescribed by your doctor.

No, Breztri is a maintenance inhaler, not a rescue inhaler. It is designed for long-term, daily use to manage COPD symptoms and prevent flare-ups over time. It does not provide immediate relief from sudden breathing attacks. Always keep a fast-acting rescue inhaler with you for emergencies as directed by your healthcare provider.

Breztri's effects build over time with consistent daily use. While formoterol, one of its components, has a relatively fast onset of action to help open airways, the full benefit for reducing inflammation and preventing flare-ups may take several days to weeks of regular, twice-daily use. It is designed for long-term control, not rapid, on-the-spot relief.

It is very important to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each dose of Breztri. This action helps remove any leftover medication from your mouth and throat, significantly reducing your risk of developing a fungal infection called oral thrush (candidiasis), which is a common side effect of inhaled corticosteroids like budesonide.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or extra doses to make up for the one you missed. Consistency is key to managing COPD effectively.

Breztri contains three active ingredients. Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways. Glycopyrronium is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) and formoterol is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA). The latter two are bronchodilators that relax airway muscles to make breathing easier. This is why it is called a "triple-therapy" inhaler.

The Breztri Aerosphere inhaler comes with a dose counter on the top, which shows how many inhalations are left. The number will decrease after each puff. You should order a refill when the number gets low, and you must discard the inhaler when the counter shows "0," even if it feels like there is still medicine inside.

You should store your Breztri inhaler at a controlled room temperature, away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and high humidity. Keep the cap on the mouthpiece when not in use. Do not puncture the canister or store it near an open flame, as its contents are under pressure. Keep it out of reach of children.

While moderate alcohol consumption is not strictly forbidden, it can sometimes worsen side effects like dizziness or interact with your overall health. Alcohol can also impact your breathing. It is always best to discuss your alcohol use with your doctor to understand any potential risks based on your personal health condition and other medications you may be taking.

Weight gain is a possible side effect of oral corticosteroids, but it is less common with inhaled corticosteroids like the budesonide in Breztri because the drug acts directly in the lungs with less systemic absorption. However, some individuals may still experience changes in weight. If you notice significant, unexplained weight gain, discuss it with your healthcare provider.

Yes, because Breztri contains an inhaled corticosteroid (budesonide), it can slightly increase the risk of developing lung infections like pneumonia. It is important to report any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, increased cough, or changes in mucus color, to your doctor right away. Rinsing your mouth can help prevent oral infections.

Breztri is not approved by the FDA for the treatment of asthma. Its safety and effectiveness have been established for the long-term maintenance treatment of COPD in adults. Using it for asthma could lead to improper management of the condition and potential health risks. You should only use Breztri as prescribed by your doctor for your specific condition.

Before starting Breztri, inform your doctor of all other medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Be particularly mindful of other long-acting bronchodilators, certain antibiotics, antifungals, and antidepressants. Combining medications can sometimes increase the risk of side effects, such as heart-related issues, so a full review by your doctor is essential.

Yes, you need to shake the Breztri inhaler well for at least five seconds before each inhalation. This step is crucial to ensure that the three active ingredients are properly mixed together. Shaking the canister helps guarantee that you receive a consistent and effective dose of the medication with every puff you take.

You should not stop using Breztri suddenly, even if you start to feel better. COPD is a chronic condition that requires continuous treatment. Stopping your maintenance medication can lead to a return or worsening of your symptoms and increase your risk of a serious flare-up. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.