What is the Seebri inhaler?
Seebri is an inhaler containing the active substance glycopyrronium bromide, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). It is used for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. The Seebri Neohaler was approved by the FDA in 2015 but has since been discontinued in the United States. The Seebri Breezhaler, containing 50 mcg of glycopyrronium, is available in other countries.
How does Seebri treat COPD?
Seebri's active ingredient, glycopyrronium bromide, works by relaxing muscles in the airways. In COPD, inflammation and narrowing of the airways make breathing difficult. Glycopyrronium is an anticholinergic medication that blocks muscarinic receptors on airway smooth muscles, which would normally cause constriction. By blocking these receptors, the medication causes bronchodilation, widening the airways and improving airflow to help relieve COPD symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing.
Seebri is a long-acting bronchodilator for regular, daily use to control symptoms over time, providing a sustained effect. It is not a rescue inhaler for immediate relief during a sudden flare-up. Patients with COPD should have a fast-acting rescue inhaler for acute attacks.
Indications and usage
Seebri is indicated for the long-term, maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is not approved for asthma treatment. The medication is administered as a powder in capsules inhaled using a specific device like the Neohaler or Breezhaler; the capsules should not be swallowed.
Important considerations and precautions
Patients should discuss their medical history with a healthcare provider before using Seebri. Precautions are necessary for certain conditions:
- Acute Bronchospasm: Seebri is a daily maintenance treatment and should not be used for acute, life-threatening bronchospasm episodes.
- Allergic Reactions: Do not use Seebri if you have a known hypersensitivity to glycopyrronium, its components, or milk proteins, as severe allergic reactions can occur.
- Narrow-Angle Glaucoma: Use with caution if you have narrow-angle glaucoma; watch for symptoms like eye pain or blurred vision.
- Urinary Retention: Caution is needed for patients with urinary retention or related conditions, as Seebri may worsen these problems.
- Paradoxical Bronchospasm: If you experience sudden worsening of breathing problems after using the inhaler, stop use immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
Seebri side effects
Common side effects may include upper respiratory tract infection, dry mouth, nasopharyngitis, insomnia, and muscle pain. Serious side effects like worsening glaucoma or urinary retention, paradoxical bronchospasm, and severe allergic reactions require immediate medical attention.
Seebri versus other COPD inhalers
Several inhalers are available for COPD maintenance treatment, differing in active ingredients and mechanisms. Seebri is a LAMA acting on muscarinic receptors. Other options may involve different bronchodilators or combinations.
| Feature | Seebri (glycopyrronium) | Spiriva (tiotropium) | Incruse (umeclidinium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | LAMA | LAMA | LAMA |
| Mechanism | Blocks muscarinic receptors to relax airway muscles | Similar to Seebri, blocking muscarinic receptors | Similar to Seebri and Spiriva |
| Delivery System | Dry-powder capsule in Neohaler or Breezhaler device | Dry-powder capsule (HandiHaler) or mist (Respimat) | Dry-powder in Ellipta device |
| Dosage Frequency | Twice daily (Neohaler) or Once daily (Breezhaler) | Once daily | Once daily |
| U.S. Status | Discontinued (Neohaler) | Available | Available |
| Other Versions | Often used in combination products with other bronchodilators, such as indacaterol and formoterol | N/A | Often used in combination products |
Alternatives and combination therapies
Following the discontinuation of the Seebri Neohaler in the U.S., alternatives and combination therapies are available for COPD patients. Options include other LAMAs like Spiriva (tiotropium) and Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium). LAMA/LABA combinations, such as Ultibro Breezhaler (glycopyrronium and indacaterol), are available in many regions for more intensive treatment. Triple therapy inhalers combine a LAMA, LABA, and inhaled corticosteroid for comprehensive management. Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial for determining the best treatment plan.
Conclusion
In summary, a Seebri inhaler provides long-term, maintenance treatment for COPD by using glycopyrronium to relax and widen airways. While the Seebri Neohaler is no longer available in the U.S., other formulations and similar medications are available globally. Consistent daily use is key, and it is essential to remember Seebri is not a rescue medication. Patients should work with their healthcare team to manage their COPD effectively.
For more detailed information on medications like Seebri, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's drug label database is a reliable resource. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
