What is Breztri Aerosphere?
Breztri Aerosphere is a brand-name prescription medication used for the long-term, maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. COPD is a progressive lung disease that includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. Breztri is a triple-combination inhaler, meaning it delivers three different medications to the lungs in one device. This combination approach targets multiple aspects of COPD simultaneously, offering a comprehensive treatment strategy for patients.
It is important to understand that Breztri is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden, severe breathing problems or during an acute COPD flare-up. For immediate relief of sudden breathing issues, patients should use a short-acting rescue inhaler, such as albuterol. Breztri is also not approved for the treatment of asthma.
How does Breztri work?
Breztri contains three active ingredients, each working differently to improve breathing in people with COPD:
- Budesonide (an inhaled corticosteroid or ICS): This is a steroid medication that works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways. Chronic inflammation is a key feature of COPD, and by minimizing it, budesonide helps improve airflow and reduce coughing.
- Glycopyrrolate (a long-acting muscarinic antagonist or LAMA): This anticholinergic medicine blocks the action of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. By doing so, it helps to relax the smooth muscles around the airways, causing them to widen and making it easier to breathe.
- Formoterol fumarate (a long-acting beta2-agonist or LABA): This bronchodilator also helps to relax the muscles in the lungs to open up the airways. As a long-acting medication, its effects last for many hours, providing sustained relief from bronchoconstriction.
The combination of these three mechanisms provides a synergistic effect that helps control COPD symptoms, improve lung function, and reduce the risk of exacerbations (flare-ups) over time.
Breztri's benefits for COPD
Clinical studies have shown that consistent, long-term use of Breztri offers several significant benefits for adults with moderate to very severe COPD:
- Reduced Exacerbations: Breztri has been proven to significantly reduce the rate of moderate and severe COPD exacerbations compared to dual-combination therapies. Fewer flare-ups mean fewer hospital visits and a better quality of life.
- Improved Lung Function: Patients using Breztri experience improved lung function, with noticeable effects beginning within minutes of the first dose. This sustained improvement helps make daily activities easier.
- Symptom Control: By managing the underlying inflammation and keeping airways open, Breztri helps control common COPD symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.
- Lower Rescue Inhaler Use: Studies have shown that patients on Breztri use their rescue inhalers less frequently, indicating better overall symptom control.
Breztri vs. Trelegy: A comparison
Breztri and Trelegy are both single-inhaler triple therapies for COPD, but they have key differences that may influence a patient's choice.
| Feature | Breztri Aerosphere | Trelegy Ellipta |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Budesonide (ICS), Glycopyrrolate (LAMA), Formoterol (LABA) | Fluticasone (ICS), Umeclidinium (LAMA), Vilanterol (LABA) |
| Dosing Frequency | Typically administered twice daily | Typically administered once daily |
| Inhaler Type | Metered-dose inhaler (MDI), uses a pressurized canister and delivers a fine mist | Dry powder inhaler (DPI), delivers a fine, dry powder |
| Asthma Approval | Not approved for asthma | Approved for asthma in addition to COPD |
The choice between these two therapies often depends on a patient's preference for dosing frequency (twice-daily vs. once-daily) and inhaler type (mist vs. dry powder). Your healthcare provider will help determine which option is best suited for your individual needs and lifestyle.
How to use Breztri Aerosphere
Breztri is designed for oral inhalation, and it is crucial to use it correctly to get the full dose of medication.
- Preparation: Remove the mouthpiece cap and shake the inhaler well before each use.
- Exhale: Breathe out fully, away from the inhaler.
- Inhale: Place the mouthpiece between your lips and seal them tightly. Press down on the canister while breathing in slowly and deeply.
- Hold Your Breath: Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds, or as long as you comfortably can.
- Repeat: Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding the number of inhalations per dose.
- Rinse: After all inhalations for a dose, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. This helps prevent a fungal infection in the mouth and throat called thrush, which can be a side effect of the corticosteroid.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions and read the patient information leaflet that comes with your inhaler for detailed guidance.
Potential side effects
As with any medication, Breztri can cause side effects. Some common side effects include:
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Hoarseness
- Back pain
- Oral thrush
- Cough
- Muscle spasms
- Urinary tract infection
More serious, but less common, side effects can occur. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Serious Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, hives, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.
- Pneumonia: Increased mucus, worsening cough, fever, or chills.
- Heart Problems: Fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or increased blood pressure.
- Eye Problems: Eye pain, blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights, which can indicate glaucoma.
- Urinary Retention: Difficulty or pain when urinating.
Conclusion
For adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Breztri represents an advanced, comprehensive treatment option. As a triple-therapy inhaler combining an inhaled corticosteroid, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist, and a long-acting beta2-agonist, it effectively targets the inflammation and airway constriction that define COPD. Its proven ability to improve lung function and significantly reduce the frequency of exacerbations can lead to a better quality of life for many patients. However, it is crucial for patients to remember that Breztri is a long-term, maintenance therapy and not a rescue medication for sudden breathing problems. Proper technique and consistent use are key to maximizing its benefits and managing COPD effectively under a doctor's supervision. For more information, the manufacturer's website is a valuable resource.
