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Incruse Ellipta vs Symbicort
Introduction
For patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, certain drugs that alter the bronchial muscle tone can help in managing symptoms and improving lung function. Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort are two such medications often prescribed for these conditions. They each impact different aspects of respiratory physiology but both aim to improve breathing capacity in patients with COPD or asthma. Incruse Ellipta is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), primarily affecting smooth muscle contraction within the airways by blocking acetylcholine receptors, thereby promoting dilation and improved airflow. Symbicort, on the other hand, combines two active ingredients: budesonide, a corticosteroid reducing inflammation; and formoterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) causing bronchodilation. These dual mechanisms provide comprehensive symptom management.
What is Incruse Ellipta?
Umeclidinium (the generic name for Incruse Ellipta) was a significant development in the class of bronchodilators used to treat obstructive lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Umeclidinium was first approved by the FDA in 2014. It works by relaxing and opening air passages to the lungs, making it easier to breathe. It is prescribed for long-term maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD. Unlike Symbicort, which contains both a bronchodilator and an anti-inflammatory steroid (budesonide), Incruse Ellipta has only one active ingredient that specifically targets muscarinic receptors in the airways without systemic side effects associated with steroids such as weight gain or high blood pressure. If your main concern is easing breathing difficulties due to constricted airways, you may find fewer side effects with Incruse Ellipta compared to combination treatments like Symbicort.
What conditions is Incruse Ellipta approved to treat?
Incruse Ellipta is approved for the treatment of certain respiratory conditions:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema
- Maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD
On the other hand, Symbicort is used for:
- Asthma in people aged 6 years and older not controlled with their current asthma medicines.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
How does Incruse Ellipta help with these illnesses?
Incruse Ellipta helps manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by relaxing the muscles around the airways, allowing them to open up and make it easier for individuals to breathe. It does this through its active ingredient called umeclidinium bromide, which is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). Umeclidinium works by blocking acetylcholine receptors in bronchial smooth muscle, thereby reducing bronchoconstriction. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in muscle contraction amongst other things. Individuals with COPD have relatively higher levels of acetylcholine leading to narrowed airways due to muscle constriction. Therefore, by blocking the action of acetylcholine, Incruse Ellipta can limit the negative effects of COPD and help patients manage their condition and improve their breathing.
What is Symbicort?
Symbicort is a brand name for a combination of budesonide and formoterol. Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces swelling, while formoterol belongs to the class of medications known as long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) which help relax and open air passages in the lungs. Symbicort was first approved by the FDA in 2006.
Unlike Incruse Ellipta, which contains only an anticholinergic agent, Symbicort has dual action due to its two active components. The fact that it combines these two types of medication can make it particularly effective for people with more severe or persistent asthma or COPD who need stronger control over their symptoms.
Its side-effect profile is different from Incruse Ellipta's because it includes both steroid-related effects such as throat irritation and coughing, along with potential LABA-related effects like nervousness and increased heart rate. However, many patients find that this combined approach provides them better relief than single-agent drugs like Incruse Ellipta.
What conditions is Symbicort approved to treat?
Symbicort is a combination inhaler that has been approved for the management and prevention of asthma in individuals aged six years and older, as well as for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The two active ingredients in Symbicort work together to reduce inflammation in the lungs while also opening up airways, which can significantly improve breathing capabilities.
How does Symbicort help with these illnesses?
Symbicort, like Incruse Ellipta, is a medication used to manage and prevent symptoms caused by asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It contains two active ingredients: budesonide, a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs, and formoterol, a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that helps open the airways in the lungs. This dual action makes Symbicort effective at not only reducing inflammations but also relaxing muscles in air passages to improve breathing. Its comprehensive approach may be beneficial for those who have not responded well enough to other medications or need additional control over their symptoms. Unlike Incruse Ellipta which is an anticholinergic bronchodilator designed solely to relax and open the airways, Symbicort offers added anti-inflammatory effects - making it potentially more effective for patients with persistent asthma or COPD.
How effective are both Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort?
Umeclidinium (Incruse Ellipta) and Budesonide/Formoterol (Symbicort) are both established medications for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They were approved by the FDA within a decade of each other, with Symbicort being licensed first. These drugs have different mechanisms of action; Umeclidinium is an anticholinergic bronchodilator while Symbicort combines a corticosteroid (Budesonide) with a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (Formoterol).
The effectiveness of Incruse Ellipta was directly studied in several double-blind clinical trials demonstrating its ability to improve lung function and patient-reported outcomes such as breathlessness. A 2014 study showed that patients receiving umeclidinium had superior improvements in lung function compared to those on placebo.
A comprehensive review published in 2008 confirmed the efficacy of Symbicort in providing control over COPD symptoms and reducing exacerbations. The same publication noted that this combination therapy has become one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for moderate to severe COPD worldwide due to its dual-action benefits.
A recent meta-analysis from 2019 indicated that despite having different mechanisms, both therapies show similar efficacy at improving lung function and quality-of-life scores. However, it's important to note that because they work differently, these two medications may be used together or separately depending on individual patient needs, severity of symptoms and physician's discretion. For instance, some patients might benefit more from using Incruse Ellipta if they need additional bronchodilation or cannot tolerate corticosteroids due to side effects like weight gain or mood swings associated with Symbicort.
At what dose is Incruse Ellipta typically prescribed?
Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort are both used for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Incruse Ellipta is dosed at 1 inhalation of the 62.5 micrograms capsule per day, which has been shown to provide adequate bronchodilation for patients with COPD over a 24 hour period. This dosage is consistent for all adults, regardless of severity of condition or age group.
On the other hand, Symbicort dosing may vary according to patient needs but generally ranges from two inhalations twice daily of the lower strength (80/4.5 mcg) to two inhalations twice daily of the higher strength (160/4.5 mcg), depending on severity of symptoms in either asthma or COPD management.
It's important to note that these medications should not be adjusted without consulting with your healthcare provider as exceeding recommended doses can lead to serious side effects.
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At what dose is Symbicort typically prescribed?
Symbicort treatment typically begins with a dosage of one inhalation, twice daily. This consists of 160 mcg budesonide and 4.5 mcg formoterol fumarate dihydrate per dose for adults, or the lower strength Symbicort Turbohaler (80/4.5) in children aged six to twelve years old. The maximum dosage is two inhalations, twice daily (maximum 1280/36mcg/day). If there's no improvement in symptoms after one week on the initial dosage, your doctor may consider increasing it; however, doses should not exceed the recommended maximum as this can lead to serious side effects such as heart palpitations and tremors.
What are the most common side effects for Incruse Ellipta?
When comparing Incruse Ellipta to Symbicort, common side effects may include:
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Inflammation of the nasal passage and throat (Pharyngitis)
- Cough
- Mouth and throat pain
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinus cavities in the head)
- Bronchitis
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pneumonia in patients with COPD,
- Thrush in the mouth and throat (due to a fungal infection), which can be minimized by rinsing your mouth after using these inhalers.
It's important to remember that everyone responds differently to medications. Therefore, if you experience any unexpected symptoms or worsening of your condition while taking either medication, it is crucial you seek medical help immediately.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Incruse Ellipta?
In rare cases, Incruse Ellipta can cause potentially serious side effects, such as:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Signs of allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Blurred vision and/or pain in the eye
- Increased heart rate (feeling like your heart is racing)
- Sudden dizziness or fainting
- Low potassium levels - symptoms include muscle weakness, limp feeling, slow heart rate
- Worsening respiratory symptoms – wheezing and cough
Severe nervous system reactions are not typically associated with Incruse Ellipta. However if you experience unusual body stiffness, high fever or confusion along with uneven heartbeat it could indicate a different medical condition that needs immediate attention.
Symptoms related to serotonin syndrome are also not reported with this medication. If you notice any severe side effects while taking this drug then immediately contact healthcare provider for further guidance.
What are the most common side effects for Symbicort?
Taking Symbicort could result in these side effects:
- Throat irritation or dry mouth
- Headache, tremors, nervousness
- Nausea, vomiting or upset stomach
- Back pain, muscle and joint discomfort
- Changes in voice
- Rapid heartbeat
- Sinusitis and stuffy nose
-Stomach problems like constipation or loss of appetite
-Sleep disturbances including insomnia
-Rashes on the skin -Unintended weight loss due to changes in taste sensation. -Increased frequency of urination.
It should be noted that not all users will experience these side effects and they may vary from person to person depending upon their medical condition. Always consult your healthcare provider if any new symptom emerges after starting the medication.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Symbicort?
Just like any other medication, Symbicort can also cause potential side effects. Here are some serious symptoms that may indicate an adverse reaction to Symbicort:
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching or swelling (particularly of the face, lips, tongue or throat), severe dizziness and difficulty breathing.
- Unusual mood changes such as agitation and depression
- A feeling of nervousness or restlessness; this could escalate into tremors
- Vision disturbances like blurred vision
- Irregular heartbeat including faster than normal heart rate
- Severe signs may include chest pain indicating possible heart problems
Remember to seek immediate medical help if you experience any of these symptoms while using Symbicort. It's important to always consult with your healthcare provider for proper guidance when starting new medications.
Contraindications for Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort?
Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort, like all other maintenance medications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, may cause a sudden worsening of symptoms in some individuals. If you notice your breathing deteriorating significantly or experience an increase in wheezing, chest tightness, coughing or shortness of breath after taking these medications, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Incruse Ellipta nor Symbicort should be taken if you are already using any medication that contains a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA), as both drugs contain this type of medicine. Always inform your doctor about all the drugs you are currently taking; LABAs can interact with other respiratory medications and cause serious side effects such as increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and potentially life-threatening bronchospasms.
Furthermore, it's important to note that people with certain medical conditions including heart diseases, diabetes, thyroid disorders and epilepsy need to discuss their condition with the healthcare provider before starting treatment with either Incruse Ellipta or Symbicort due to potential interactions.
How much do Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price of Incruse Ellipta inhaler (with 30 doses) averages around $380, which works out to approximately $12.67 per day.
- The price for Symbicort (120 doses at a strength of 160/4.5 mcg) is about $300, working out to roughly $2.50 per day.
Thus, if you are using one inhalation per day as commonly prescribed for both medications, Symbicort would be less expensive on a per-day treatment basis than Incruse Ellipta. However, it's essential to understand that cost shouldn't be your primary consideration in determining which drug is right for you as efficacy and side-effect profiles differ between medications.
As of now, there are no generic versions available for either Incruse Ellipta or Symbicort in the United States because they're still protected by pharmaceutical patents. Consequently, prices remain relatively high compared with many other common medications.
Popularity of Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort
Incruse Ellipta, also known as umeclidinium bromide, is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) inhaler that helps to relax and open your airways. It was prescribed to about 600,000 people in the US in 2020. Incruse Ellipta accounted for nearly 15% of LAMA prescriptions in the US during this time period.
On the other hand, Symbicort, which combines an inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting beta agonist (LABA), has been around longer and more commonly prescribed than Incruse Ellipta. In fact, it was estimated to have been prescribed to about 3 million people in the USA in 2020 alone. The prevalence of Symbicort's usage accounts for roughly a quarter of overall LABA/corticosteroid combination inhaler prescriptions within the same period.
While both medications are used for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma management, they differ significantly regarding their components and how they work on lungs' muscles. Choosing between them should always be guided by careful examination from healthcare professionals according to specific patient needs.
Conclusion
Both Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium bromide) and Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) are used in the management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma. They have been shown to be effective based on several clinical studies, demonstrating superior outcomes compared to placebo treatments.
Incruse Ellipta works primarily by acting as a long-acting muscarinic antagonist that relaxes the muscles around the airways in your lungs. This makes breathing easier for patients with COPD or asthma.
On the other hand, Symbicort is a combination therapy containing budesonide, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid, and formoterol, a long-acting beta-adrenoceptor agonist which helps keep airways relaxed.
While both drugs are indicated for managing respiratory conditions like COPD or asthma, they may sometimes be prescribed together when one drug alone does not provide adequate control of symptoms. However, this should only be done after careful consideration due to potential interactions between these medications.
Both Incruse Ellipta and Symbicort require consistent administration to maintain their therapeutic effects since it may take some time before noticeable improvements occur in lung function.
Comparatively speaking regarding side effects; while both drugs are generally well-tolerated but can cause common adverse reactions such as headache or upper respiratory tract infections. Symbicort has additional potential side effects related to its corticosteroid component - including oral thrush if proper mouth rinsing isn't carried out post inhalation. For any ongoing discomfort or worsening symptoms during treatment with either drug, it's important that medical help is sought immediately.