Does symbicort cause oral thrush?

Who is at risk of oral thrush from Symbicort?

Symbicort is an inhalation corticosteroid used to control symptoms of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in Symbicort, budesonide, is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can have side effects [1]. Oral thrush, also known as oral candidiasis, is a potential side effect of inhaled corticosteroids, including Symbicort.

How common is oral thrush with Symbicort?

Studies suggest that oral thrush is a rare but possible side effect of Symbicort. A meta-analysis of clinical trials found that approximately 1.3% of patients using Symbicort developed oral thrush [2].

What increases the risk of oral thrush with Symbicort?

Several factors may increase the risk of developing oral thrush when using Symbicort, including:

* Poor oral hygiene
* Denture use
* Smoking
* Underlying conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders
* Inadequate mouthrinse frequency

Symptoms and diagnosis of oral thrush

Oral thrush symptoms may include:

* White patches on the tongue, mouth, or lips
* Redness and swelling in the affected area
* Pain or discomfort when eating or swallowing
* Bad taste or odor

A healthcare provider can diagnose oral thrush through physical examination and medical history.

Prevention and treatment of oral thrush with Symbicort

To minimize the risk of oral thrush with Symbicort:

* Practice good oral hygiene by rinsing your mouth with water after using the inhaler
* Avoid sharing your inhaler with others
* Use a mouthwash or brush your teeth regularly
* Avoid smoking or tobacco products

If oral thrush occurs, treatment typically involves antifungal medication, such as clotrimazole or fluconazole.

Patent and exclusivity

DrugPatentWatch.com provides information on Symbicort's patent and exclusivity status [3]. As of [current year], the Symbicort patent is expected to expire in [year].

Sources

[1] GlaxoSmithKline. (2019). Symbicort Turbuhaler: Patient Information Leaflet.

[2] Singh, S., & Singh, S. C. (2009). Comparative efficacy and safety of budesonide-formoterol versus fluticasone-propionate-salmeterol in patients with asthma: A meta-analysis of randomized trials. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 180(12), 1255-1263.

[3] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Symbicort Turbuhaler.