Abnormalities in the lungs' small airways lead to reduced airflow in and out of the lungs. Many processes cause the airways to become narrow. There may be damage to parts of the lung, mucus blocking the airways, and swelling and inflammation of the airway lining.
This condition is called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is the third leading cause of death globally, causing over 3 million deaths.
As a result, it is clear how critical it is to seek new COPD treatments regularly.
Continue reading to learn more!
More About New Treatment for COPD
On March 16th, 2022, the FDA approved the first generic version of Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol.
It is a maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction and reduces exacerbations for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Breyna is a drug-device combination product that contains Budesonide and Formoterol in a metered-dose inhaler (MDI).
Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation. In comparison, formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that loosens muscles in the airways to improve breathing.
Two inhalations are administered twice daily (usually morning and night, about 12 hours apart). It helps with better breathing for those with COPD. The inhaler is approved for two strengths: 160/4.5 mcg/actuation and 80/4.5 mcg/actuation.
Breyna should be available at some point during 2022, as per Viatris, the manufacturer of Breyna.
What are its Side Effects?
Just like any other treatment, Breyna too has side effects!
No matter how minimal, one should know them!
So, please pay attention!
The most common side effects of Breyna for those with COPD are:
One should remember several other points before taking the new treatment for COPD.
We have mentioned them below.
Please read them carefully!
What Should Patients Know Before Considering Breyna?
- Breyna should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks.
- Breyna should not be used to treat Bronchospasm.
- If shortness of breath occurs mid-doses, an inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonist is recommended for immediate relief.
- Hypersensitivity to any ingredient in BREYNA may cause urticaria, angioedema, rash, and Bronchospasm in such patients. Breyna should be discontinued in such cases.
- BREYNA should not be administered in patients with rapidly deteriorating or potentially life-threatening episodes of asthma or COPD.
- BREYNA should not be used to relieve acute symptoms of COPD.
- BREYNA should be used with caution in patients unusually responsive to sympathomimetic amines.
References:
https://www.goodrx.com/budesonide-formoterol/fda-approves-generic-symbicort
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/
https://www.formularywatch.com
