What is Breztri Aerosphere?

Breztri Aerosphere, manufactured by AstraZeneca, is an inhalation aerosol medication used in the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This lung disease is characterized by inflammation in the lungs, which can lead to breathing difficulties, bronchospasms, and other serious complications. Breztri Aerosphere is a combination medication that contains budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate. Breztri Aerosphere is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for the treatment of asthma.

How Does Breztri Aerosphere Work?

Given the three active ingredients, Breztri Aerosphere works in three specific ways. Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that helps reduce inflammation in the lungs, while glycopyrrolate is an anticholinergic medication that helps relax the muscles around the airways. Formoterol is a long-acting beta 2-adrenergic agonist (LABA) that helps by relaxing the muscles and promoting bronchodilation.

Breztri Aerosphere is used for individuals with COPD, including chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both. Breztri Aerosphere improves breathing and decreases the frequency and severity of COPD flare-ups (exacerbations) and hospitalizations by reducing inflammation, relaxing the airway muscles, and promoting better airflow.

What Doses of Breztri Aerosphere are Available?

Breztri Aerosphere is available in 2 different strengths. Your specific dose will be determined by your healthcare provider based on factors such as the severity of your COPD and your response to treatment.

The available strengths of Breztri Aerosphere include:

Breztri Aerosphere 320/18/9.6 mcg: This inhaler contains 320 micrograms of budesonide, 18 micrograms of glycopyrrolate, and 9.6 micrograms of formoterol fumarate per inhalation.
Breztri Aerosphere 160/18/9.6 mcg: This inhaler contains 160 micrograms of budesonide, 18 micrograms of glycopyrrolate, and 9.6 micrograms of formoterol fumarate per inhalation.

How do you use Breztri Aerosphere?

Using Breztri Aerosphere correctly is essential for maximizing its effectiveness. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the detailed information in the patient information leaflet or prescribing information. Here are some general guidelines for using Breztri Aerosphere:

Priming the Inhaler
- Before using Breztri Aerosphere for the first time, or if you haven't used it for a week or more, it is important to prime the inhaler. Priming ensures that the inhaler is ready for use and that you receive the correct dose of medication. Follow the instructions provided to prime the inhaler properly.
Shake the Inhaler
- Before each use, shake the inhaler well to be sure that the medication is properly mixed.
Inhale the Medication
- Hold the inhaler upright and remove the cap. Breathe out fully to empty your lungs. Place the mouthpiece between your lips and form a tight seal around it. Inhale deeply and forcefully through your mouth, while pressing down on the canister to release the medication. Continue to inhale until your lungs are fully expanded.
Hold Your Breath
- After inhaling the medication, hold your breath for about 10 seconds to allow the medicine to reach deep into your lungs. Then, exhale slowly.
Wait Between Inhalations
- If your healthcare provider has prescribed more than one inhalation, wait at least 1 minute between each inhalation.
Rinse Your Mouth
- To minimize the risk of side effects such as oral thrush, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use without swallowing.
If you miss a dose
- Take the dose as soon as you remember, but if it is closer to the time of your next dose, skip this dose and take the next at your normal time.

It is important to use Breztri Aerosphere regularly and as prescribed by your healthcare provider for optimal results. If you have any questions or concerns about using the inhaler, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.

What Are The Side Effects of Taking Breztri Aerosphere?

Like any medication, Breztri Aerosphere can cause side effects. It is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to discuss them with your healthcare provider. While not everyone experiences side effects, some individuals may experience mild to moderate side effects while taking Breztri Aerosphere.

Common side effects of Breztri Aerosphere may include:

Upper respiratory tract infections such as the common cold
Oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth and throat)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Sinusitis (sinus inflammation)
Cough
Influenza (flu)
Back pain
Diarrhea
Muscle spasms (twitching)
Hoarse voice
Tremor (shaking in one or more body parts)
Nervousness
Headache
Nausea

Rarely, Breztri Aerosphere may cause some serious side effects, including:

Paradoxical bronchospasm: unexpected or sudden breathing problems immediately after inhaling the drug.
Urinary retention
- Trouble emptying your bladder
- Pain while urinating
Hypokalemia (low levels of potassium)
Changes in your blood pressure or heartbeat
Blood sugar level changes

It is important to note that this is not a full list of side effects, and individual experiences may vary. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects while taking Breztri Aerosphere, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice. You can report your adverse effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Breztri Aerosphere drug interactions

When Breztri Aerosphere is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Some drug interactions with Breztri Aerosphere include:

Diuretics, steroids, or xanthine derivatives may cause ECG changes or low potassium levels.
- Do not use these in combination with Breztri Aerosphere if you have low potassium or magnesium in your blood.
Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors, such as ketoconazole.
Beta-blockers: may cause severe bronchospasm.
Other medications that affect heart rhythm or blood pressure.
Anticholinergics such as tiotropium and glycopyrronium or LABA drugs such as salmeterol.

Breztri Aerosphere Precautions

Your healthcare professional should be aware of other medical conditions or issues you have in case it affects your treatment. Make sure to talk to your doctor about the following:

Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to budesonide, glycopyrrolate, formoterol fumarate, or any other ingredients in Breztri Aerosphere, inform your healthcare provider. Allergic reactions can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
Eye Conditions: Breztri Aerosphere contains glycopyrrolate, which can cause eye-related side effects such as blurred vision, glaucoma, cataracts, or increased intraocular pressure. Inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing eye problems or if you develop any eye symptoms while using Breztri Aerosphere.
Bone Health: Long-term use of corticosteroids, such as budesonide, may increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Discuss your bone health with your healthcare provider and consider calcium and vitamin D supplements if necessary.
Pregnant or breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits of taking this medication if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Heart Problems: If you have high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or other heart problems, Breztri Aerosphere may worsen these conditions.
Thyroid Problems: If you have an overactive thyroid or symptoms of it, Breztri Aerosphere can make certain symptoms worse, including a fast heart rate.
Chickenpox or measles: Budesonide can weaken your immune system, making it not able to fight off infections, and viruses such as measles and chickenpox.
Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen or you experience chest pain, increased wheezing, or shortness of breath after using Breztri Aerosphere, seek immediate medical attention.

Is there a generic available for Breztri Aerosphere?

Currently, there is no generic available for Breztri Aerosphere in the United States.

How do you store Breztri Aerosphere?

Proper storage of your Breztri Aerosphere is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Follow these guidelines to ensure the medication remains stable and safe for use:

Keep Breztri Aerosphere at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
Store the inhaler in a dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it can be exposed to moisture.
Always keep the cap on the inhaler when it is not in use to protect it from contamination and ensure proper functioning.
Do not use Breztri Aerosphere beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly dispose of any expired inhalers according to local guidelines or consult your pharmacist for guidance.

Related Medication

In addition to Breztri Aerosphere, there are other medications available that are used to manage COPD. These medications may have similar mechanisms of action or provide comparable benefits in improving breathing and reducing COPD symptoms. It is important to note that the choice of medication will depend on factors such as individual response, medication availability, and specific treatment goals.

Some other drugs that may be similar to Breztri Aerosphere in managing COPD include: