If you are using Symbicort SMART (Symbicort as both reliever and preventer), a special first aid plan exists that does not use a blue reliever.
Note: If you do not use Symbicort as a reliever medication, you should use the general Asthma First Aid plan.
- If you are on the SMART treatment program and have asthma symptoms, you should take 1 inhalation of your Symbicort whenever you need to.
- If you need to take more than 6 Symbicort inhalations a day, you should check your asthma action plan for information on what to do, or see your doctor.
- If you need more than 12 Symbicort inhalations in a day, you should see your doctor immediately or go to hospital the same day.
What should I do in an emergency?
If you have any of the following danger signs, dial 000 for an ambulance immediately:
- Symptoms get worse quickly
- It’s extremely difficult to breathe or speak
- There is little or no improvement after using your Symbicort reliever.
Whilst waiting for the ambulance, you should start Symbicort first aid:
- Sit upright and stay calm.
- Take 1 inhalation of Symbicort. Wait 1-3 minutes.
- If there is no improvement take another inhalation of Symbicort (up to a maximum of 6 inhalations).
- If Symbicort is unavailable use a blue reliever and follow the standard Asthma First Aid plan.
- Start a course of prednisolone tablets (if your doctor has advised you to do this) while waiting for an ambulance
See your doctor immediately after a serious attack, even if the symptoms settle quickly.