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My doc gave me breztri, the 2nd day of use my breathing got a little worse, I stopped using it and my shortness of breath is a little worse.

A MyCOPDTeam Member asked a question 💭
Idaho Falls, ID

Anyone else experience this?

April 1
 · 
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around someone whose breathing worsened after starting Breztri, affirming that everyone reacts to medications differently and... Read more

Members rallied around someone whose breathing worsened after starting Breztri, affirming that everyone reacts to medications differently and encouraging them to follow up with their doctor and pulmonologist as planned. Several members shared their own challenging experiences with Breztri, including side effects like hoarseness and breathing difficulties, while others found relief by switching to alternatives like Symbicort, Dulera, Combivent, or nebulizer treatments. A recurring theme was the importance of advocating for yourself, researching options, and not hesitating to find a new pulmonologist if the current one isn't meeting your needs.

A MyCOPDTeam Member

My pulmonologist put me on Breztri and two days in i couldn't breathe. I called and was told to go back to my Symbicort inhaler. Last month I changed pulmonologists. He was very thoural. Come to discover I am allergic to Anticholinergics which are in most inhalers that would help me. I am now on my Symbicort at higher dosage 160 4.5. Also doing Dupixent shots every two weeks.

April 3
A MyCOPDTeam Member

I recently (1 week ago) had to stop using Breztri because of the many side effects. One of them being lost voice but my breathing WAS improved. I'm still very hoarse. The Pulmo has me on Dulera now and it seems to be helping and no side effects so far. You really should check in with your doctor as your breathing hasn't improved.

April 2
A MyCOPDTeam Member

Thank you for the info. I did tell my doc. I'm going in this week for a COPD test and will also talk to the pulmonologist.

April 2
A MyCOPDTeam Member

That is strange as it is to help your airways stay open. You may have just started having an exacerbation at this same time, since you say the SOB continues to worsen after stopping. Have you contacted your doctor? You may be having an allergic reaction to some of the medication in it.

We all react to medications differently. It helped my breathing, but It just wasn't a good fit for me. As I had too many side effects from it. Your pulmonologist can prescribe another medication.

April 2
MyCOPDTeam

Has anyone else experienced worsening breathing after starting or stopping a new COPD medication?

It's concerning that your breathing worsened after starting Breztri and hasn't fully improved after stopping. This definitely warrants a call to your doctor right away.

When starting new COPD medications, some people do Show Full Answer

Has anyone else experienced worsening breathing after starting or stopping a new COPD medication?

It's concerning that your breathing worsened after starting Breztri and hasn't fully improved after stopping. This definitely warrants a call to your doctor right away.

When starting new COPD medications, some people do experience adjustment periods, but worsening shortness of breath isn't something to wait out on your own. Your doctor needs to know what's happening so they can:

* Determine if this is a reaction to the medication
* Check if your COPD may be flaring up for another reason
* Adjust your treatment plan if needed
* Make sure you have the right rescue medications available

If your shortness of breath continues to worsen, you're gasping for air, having chest tightness, feeling confused, or your lips are turning blue, seek emergency care immediately. If you have a pulse oximeter, check your oxygen level - readings below 90% need immediate medical attention.

In the meantime, breathing techniques like pursed lip breathing can help manage shortness of breath while you wait to speak with your doctor. But don't delay making that call - your treatment plan may need adjustment.

April 1

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