symbicort and sleep issues

[alchemilla12]

Hi

Ive been on symbicort for 5 weeks now but am having problems with insomnia and restless legs .I have these issues on and off normally but this has been going on without a break for the same length of time I started Symbicort.Has anyone else experienced similar?

[CDPO16]

Hi, I don't use Symbicort but I have similar problems with my inhalers which include Fostair which is a steroid plus formoterol. Many years ago, when I talked to my GP about it she said that, unfortunately, most of my medication had the side effect of difficulty sleeping. I chose to stick with the Fostair as the benefits for my chest outweigh the side effects for me. If you are struggling so much it may be worth discussing options with your doctor.

[alchemilla12 in reply to CDPO16]

thanks for replying. I know it's a tricky weighing up process isnt it.I have only just gone on to any regular meds for asthma and at first put on just a steroid but that wasnt helping enough.The Symbicort is really doing the trick asthma wise but sleep is horrendous!problem is I dont take any kind of meds normally so definitely dont want to go down the sleeping pill route.I have an asthma review next week with a NP so will see what she says😀

[CDPO16 in reply to alchemilla12]

It's doubtful that you would be prescribed sleeping pills. I was given a 10 day supply when I was desperate but not a long-term prescription. I do sleep better now than I used to but have been using Fostair for over 5 years.It's good that you have a review with your nurse next week and can talk things over with her. Best wishes.

[O2Trees]

What a nuisance alchemilla - I would hope that over time your body will adjust and you will be able to sleep again. Ive been on Symbicort for years, so long that I cant remember how it was when I started using it. You could try all the sleep hygiene things, like not eating late, turning all screens off an hour before bedtime, lots on the web. Really hope this sorts out as I believe Symbicort works brilliantly for most who take it.

[alchemilla12 in reply to O2Trees]

thank you so much O2Trees -yes I do all of the above !.Im afraid I think the Symbicort is just exacerbating the issues I have with sleep anyway but it is certainly helping my asthma amazingly well so it's just swings and roundabouts I suppose😀

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

Hi I used to be on symbricort and was taken off because of the same problems. Hope you get it sorted, have a good night and take care😊 Bernadette and Jack 🐕 xxxxxx

[alchemilla12 in reply to Damon1864]

thank you so much for replying. Would you mind if I ask what you were put on instead and did it control your lung issues as well as Symbicort ?-just asking in case this is suggested to me at my next review

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

I am now on Trimbow and I am doing fine on it. Hope this really helps you.😊 Bernadette and Jack 🐕 xxxxxx

[alchemilla12 in reply to Damon1864]

thank you! I have asthma so unlikely to be put on this med I think.Ive actually dropped down the dose from 2 puffs to 1 and had a good night's sleep last night. Mind you I had a few glasses of wine too 🤣