Why is this medication prescribed?

Breztri Aerosphere is a prescription medication primarily used for the long-term maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It contains three active ingredients: budesonide (an inhaled corticosteroid), glycopyrrolate (a long-acting muscarinic antagonist or LAMA), and formoterol fumarate (a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist or LABA).

Breztri Aerosphere works by reducing inflammation in the airways, relaxing the muscles around the airways, and opening them up, thereby making breathing easier for individuals with COPD.

How should this medicine be used?

Breztri Aerosphere is typically used as an inhalation spray, and it’s important to follow the instructions provided with the medication. Here’s a general guide on how to use Breztri Aerosphere:

• Prepare the Inhaler: Before using the inhaler for the first time or if it hasn’t been used for a while, you may need to prime it. Priming ensures that the inhaler is ready for use and delivers the correct dose of medication. Follow the specific instructions provided with the inhaler for priming.
• Shake the Inhaler: Shake the inhaler well before each use. This helps ensure that the medication is evenly mixed and ready for inhalation.
• Breathe Out: Before using the inhaler, breathe out fully to empty your lungs.
• Hold the Inhaler: Hold the inhaler upright with the mouthpiece facing you, and remove the cap.
• Seal Your Lips: Place the mouthpiece between your lips, ensuring a tight seal around it with your lips. Make sure not to cover the air vents on the sides of the mouthpiece, as this could affect the delivery of the medication.
• Inhale the Medication: As you start to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth, press down on the top of the inhaler to release the medication. Continue to breathe in steadily and deeply to ensure that the medication reaches your lungs.
• Hold Your Breath: After inhaling the medication, hold your breath for about 5-10 seconds, or for as long as is comfortable for you. This allows the medication to be fully absorbed into your lungs.
• Breathe Out Slowly: After holding your breath, exhale slowly and gently away from the inhaler, being careful not to exhale into the inhaler as this could affect its function.
• Close the Inhaler: Replace the cap on the inhaler to protect the mouthpiece and keep it clean.
• Rinse Your Mouth (Optional): If your healthcare provider recommends it, rinse your mouth with water after using the inhaler to help prevent mouth and throat irritation, which can be a side effect of inhaled corticosteroids.

It’s important to use Breztri Aerosphere exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use the inhaler, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Breztri Aerosphere is primarily prescribed for the long-term maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It’s specifically formulated to help improve symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing in individuals with COPD. However, there are no other approved uses for Breztri Aerosphere beyond its indicated purpose for COPD.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for using Breztri Aerosphere, here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to budesonide, glycopyrrolate, formoterol, or any other medications. It’s crucial to disclose any known allergies to medications or other substances to avoid potential allergic reactions.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have a history of certain medical conditions such as heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders, seizures, or liver disease. These conditions may require special monitoring or dosage adjustments while using Breztri Aerosphere.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Breztri Aerosphere with your healthcare provider. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits to the mother against any possible risks to the fetus or infant.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking, as Breztri Aerosphere may interact with certain medications. This includes prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbal supplements. Some medications, such as certain beta-blockers or other medications containing long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonists (LABAs) or anticholinergics, may interact with Breztri Aerosphere.
• Adverse Effects: Be aware of potential adverse effects associated with Breztri Aerosphere, such as increased risk of pneumonia, thrush (oral yeast infection), or worsening of COPD symptoms. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any new or worsening symptoms while using Breztri Aerosphere.
• Use as Directed: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the proper use of Breztri Aerosphere. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or frequency of use unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may recommend regular check-ups to monitor your lung function and overall health while using Breztri Aerosphere. Attend all scheduled appointments and inform your healthcare provider of any changes in your symptoms or health status.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can use Breztri Aerosphere safely and effectively under the supervision of your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about using Breztri Aerosphere, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Breztri Aerosphere, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with this medication. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated, as recommended for overall health and managing COPD.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Breztri Aerosphere, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Breztri Aerosphere, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some common side effects associated with Breztri Aerosphere include:

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: These can include symptoms such as the common cold, sore throat, sinusitis, or influenza.
• Pneumonia: There is an increased risk of pneumonia associated with Breztri Aerosphere, particularly in patients with COPD.
• Oral Candidiasis (Thrush): This is a fungal infection that can develop in the mouth and throat. Rinsing the mouth with water after using the inhaler can help reduce the risk.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches as a side effect of using Breztri Aerosphere.
• Back Pain: Back pain may occur in some patients using Breztri Aerosphere.
• Cough: Coughing may worsen or occur as a side effect of using Breztri Aerosphere.
• Nasopharyngitis (Inflammation of the Nose and Throat): This can cause symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, or sneezing.
• Dysgeusia (Altered Taste Sensation): Some individuals may experience changes in taste perception while using Breztri Aerosphere.
• Muscle Spasms: Muscle spasms or cramps may occur as a side effect of this medication.
• Urinary Tract Infections: Some individuals may develop urinary tract infections while using Breztri Aerosphere.

It’s important to note that this is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. Some individuals may experience other side effects not listed here. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while using Breztri Aerosphere, or if you have any concerns about potential side effects, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your individual health status and medication usage.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal:

• Storage: Store Breztri Aerosphere at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep the inhaler tightly closed when not in use. Make sure to keep Breztri Aerosphere out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of Breztri Aerosphere inhalers according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not throw the inhaler in the household trash or flush it down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent environmental contamination and accidental exposure.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or suspected overdose, such as accidentally inhaling too much medication, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (such as the Poison Help hotline in the United States at 1-800-222-1222). Be prepared to provide information about the medication ingested, the dosage taken, and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Keep track of your inhaler usage and refill schedule to ensure you have an adequate supply of medication.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and specialists, about your use of Breztri Aerosphere.
• Carry a rescue inhaler (e.g., a short-acting bronchodilator) with you at all times for sudden episodes of breathing difficulty or exacerbations of COPD symptoms.
• Avoid using Breztri Aerosphere more frequently or at higher doses than prescribed, as this can increase the risk of side effects without providing additional benefit.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Breztri Aerosphere or your COPD treatment plan, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

By following these guidelines for storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and other important information, you can use Breztri Aerosphere safely and effectively as part of your COPD management plan.