Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while using Symbicort as follows:
- Individuals with history of immunosuppression or taking any immunosuppressant medications, such as, individuals with autoimmune disorders, must be cautious regarding using Symbicort. These individuals are at increased risk for opportunistic bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Any symptoms of infection, while using Symbicort, should be immediately reported and evaluated.
- Individuals taking other steroid medications, such as, Prednisone or Cortisol, for other health issues can be at significant risk for osteoporosis, if they are concurrently taking Symbicort. Any sudden bone or skeletal pain should be reported to the physician. Exacerbation of osteoporosis and bone resorption can result in elevated levels of serum calcium.
- Individuals with history of electrolyte disturbances, such as, hypokalemia and hypercalcemia can be at significant risk for these conditions to exacerbate with Symbicort use. Severely low potassium levels and elevated calcium levels in blood can result life threatening cardiac arrhythmias.
