Can You Use Symbicort and Prednisone Together?
Symbicort and Prednisone are commonly prescribed medications for those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other respiratory illnesses. While both of these medications are effective in treating respiratory issues, many people wonder if it is safe to use both medications together.
Prednisone is a type of steroid and work to reduce inflammation in the airways. It is prescribed to those experiencing severe asthma attacks, and can also be prescribed to those suffering from COPD exacerbations. Symbicort on the other hand is a combination medication containing a steroid and a long-acting bronchodilator, which relaxes the airways and makes it easier to breathe.
Can you use Symbicort and Prednisone together?
Yes, it is possible to use Symbicort and Prednisone together. However, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider before using both medications together. Prednisone is a potent medication and has a variety of side effects such as high blood pressure, mood changes, and weight gain, so it is important to only use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
How should I take Symbicort and Prednisone together?
If you are taking Symbicort and Prednisone together, it is important to take them as directed by your healthcare provider. Symbicort should always be taken first, in order to allow the medication to take effect and to open up the airways. Prednisone is usually taken in tablet form, and should be taken with food in order to minimize stomach upset.
What are the side effects of taking Symbicort and Prednisone together?
While both medications are considered safe when used alone, there is potential for side effects when they are used together. Common side effects of Symbicort include headache, nausea, and throat irritation. Prednisone, on the other hand, can cause a variety of side effects such as elevated blood sugar levels, weight gain, and increased risk of infection. It is important to monitor for any signs of side effects and to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Tips for using Symbicort and Prednisone together
When using Symbicort and Prednisone together, it is important to follow these tips:
- Discuss the use of both medications with your healthcare provider
- Always take Symbicort first, in order to open up the airways
- Take Prednisone with food in order to minimize stomach upset
- Monitor for signs of side effects and report any concerns to your healthcare provider
- Always use these medications as directed
Can Symbicort cause weight gain?
Symbicort can cause weight gain in some individuals. This is due to the fact that the medication contains a steroid component which can increase appetite and cause fluid retention. However, not everyone will experience weight gain while using Symbicort. If you do experience weight gain, it is important to report it to your healthcare provider.
Can Prednisone cause a flare up?
Prednisone is used to reduce inflammation in the airways, so it is unlikely that it will cause a flare up. In fact, it is often prescribed to help treat COPD exacerbations and severe asthma attacks. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as muscle weakness or mood changes, which can make symptoms worse. It is important to monitor for any signs of worsening symptoms and to report any concerns to your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to use Symbicort and Prednisone together. However, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider before using both medications together. These medications can cause side effects, so it is important to use them as directed and to report any concerns to your healthcare provider. Remember to follow the tips discussed above in order to use these medications safely and effectively.
References
- “Symbicort vs Pulmicort.” Healthline. Accessed September 17, 2021. https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/symbicort-vs-pulmicort.
- “Prednisone: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects.” Drugs.com. Accessed September 17, 2021. https://www.drugs.com/prednisone.html.
- “Symbicort Inhalation: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing.” WebMD. Accessed September 17, 2021. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-148964/symbicort-inhalation/details.
- What is Symbicort used for? Symbicort is used to treat asthma and COPD.
- What is Prednisone used for? Prednisone is used to reduce inflammation in the airways and is prescribed to treat severe asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations.
- Is it safe to take both Symbicort and Prednisone? Yes, it is safe to take both medications together, but it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
- What are the side effects of Symbicort? Common side effects of Symbicort include headache, nausea, and throat irritation.
- What are the side effects of Prednisone? Prednisone can cause a variety of side effects such as elevated blood sugar levels, weight gain, and increased risk of infection.