How long does it take for Breztri to work?
Breztri Aerosphere (budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol) begins working within about 5 minutes, improving lung function and easing breathing. However, full effects may take up to 4 weeks, as the corticosteroid component gradually reduces airway inflammation. Daily use is essential for the best results.
Clinical Data on Breztri’s Effectiveness
In clinical studies, patients taking Breztri Aerosphere saw a 100 mL increase from their baseline FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) within around 5 minutes after inhaling a dose on the first day. FEV1 measures how much air you can forcefully exhale in the first second after inhaling. This test is used to help classify the severity of lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Is Breztri Fast-Acting?
Yes, Breztri Aerosphere works quickly (within 5 minutes) to improve lung function in people with COPD. This is due to two ingredients in Breztri:
- formoterol (a long-acting beta agonist, or LABA), and
- glycopyrrolate (an anticholinergic).
When inhaled, these medications reach the lungs rapidly and start to work within minutes to open up the airways. The third ingredient in Breztri Aerosphere, budesonide, is a steroid and works more slowly.
Breztri Aerosphere should not be used to treat a sudden breathing attack. Make sure you always have a rescue inhaler, such as albuterol, in case of sudden breathing problems.
What to Expect at Different Time Points
During the first few minutes after taking a dose of Breztri, patients should feel some immediate relief from the fast-acting bronchodilators (formoterol and glycopyrrolate). This may include:
- Easier, deeper breathing
- Reduced feeling of chest tightness
- Improved ability to exhale fully
After the first few days, the medication will reach more consistent levels in the body. You may notice:
- More consistent breathing throughout the day
- Reduced need for rescue inhalers
- Improved sleep quality due to better nighttime breathing
The full therapeutic benefit may not become apparent until the first few weeks after starting Breztri. At this time, you should have reduced COPD flare-ups and enhanced overall quality of life.
Related questions
- What is the difference between Breztri vs Trelegy?
- Why is Breztri not for asthma?
- How many puffs are in Breztri Aerosphere inhaler?
Factors That Influence How Quickly Breztri Works
Proper inhaler technique is key for getting Breztri to work quickly. Other factors that may affect how well Breztri works is how consistent you use the inhaler, the severity of your symptoms, and other medical conditions or medications.
To ensure Breztri works as quickly and effectively as possible:
- Take at the same times each day (morning and evening)
- Rinse mouth after each use to prevent oral candidiasis
- Continue rescue inhaler use as prescribed for sudden symptoms
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress
- Report any concerns about effectiveness to your healthcare provider promptly
How Long Does Breztri Stay in Your System?
The individual medications in Breztri are broken down at different rates in your system. It takes about 3 days for all of the ingredients in Breztri to leave your body, based on the half-life of each medication.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
While most patients experience benefits within the first week, contact your healthcare provider if:
- No improvement in breathing is noticed after 2 weeks of consistent use
- Symptoms worsen despite regular use
- Increased need for rescue medications
- Development of concerning side effects
This is not all the information you need to know about Breztri Aerosphere for safe and effective use. Review the full Breztri Aerosphere information, and discuss this and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
- Breztri Aerosphere [package insert]. Updated January 2022. AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. Accessed September 11, 2024 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=715433dc-cb2b-43ea-b6df-c5b4177adc6c
- David, S., et. al. 2022. Forced Expiratory Volume. In: StatPearls. Accessed September 11, 2024 at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540970/
- Lötvall J. 2001. Pharmacological similarities and differences between beta2-agonists. In: Respiratory Medicine. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1053/rmed.2001.1139
- Tashkin, D. P., et. al. 2018. Inhaled glycopyrrolate for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In: International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2147/COPD.S162646
- www.breztri.com. 2024. FAQs About Breztri. Accessed September 11, 2024 at https://www.breztri.com/faqs#accordion-23d11ca105-item-81be2ae7e0
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Drug information
- Breztri Aerosphere Information for Consumers
- Breztri Aerosphere prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Breztri Aerosphere (detailed)
- Breztri Aerosphere user reviews (137)
Related support groups
- Breztri Aerosphere (4 questions, 4 members)
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (137 questions, 492 members)