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AIRSUPRA (albuterol and budesonide) Inhalation Aerosol is a pressurized metered dose inhaler containing a combination of micronized albuterol sulfate, a relatively selective, short-acting beta2Âadrenergic agonist and micronized budesonide, a corticosteroid, for oral inhalation.
Albuterol sulfate is the official generic name in the United States. The World Health Organization recommended name for the drug is salbutamol sulfate. Albuterol sulfate has the following chemical name: USP racemic α1 [(tert-Butylamino)methyl]-4-hydroxy-m-xylene-α,α'-diol sulfate (2:1) (salt). The empirical formula is (C13H21NO3)2•H2SO4, and the molecular weight is 576.7. Its structural formula is:
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Albuterol sulfate is a white to off-white powder that is freely soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol and in ether, and practically insoluble in chloroform. It has a LogP of 0.44 at physiological pH. Albuterol has one chiral center and exists as a 1:1 racemic mixture.
Budesonide is a corticosteroid designated chemically as (RS)-11β, 16α, 17,21-Tetrahydroxypregna-1,4Âdiene-3,20-dione cyclic 16,17-acetal with butyraldehyde. Budesonide is provided as a mixture of two epimers (22R and 22S). The empirical formula of budesonide is C25H34O6 and its molecular weight is 430.5. Its structural formula is:
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Budesonide is a white to off-white powder that is practically insoluble in water and in heptane, sparingly soluble in ethanol, and freely soluble in chloroform. Its partition coefficient between octanol and water at pH 7.4 is 1.6 x 103.
AIRSUPRA is formulated as a hydrofluoroalkane (HFA-134a) propelled pressurized metered dose inhaler containing 120 inhalations. The canister has an attached dose indicator and is supplied with a white plastic actuator with a frosted clear plastic dust cap tethered to it.
After priming, each actuation of AIRSUPRA 90 mcg/80 mcg meters 99 mcg of albuterol and 88 mcg of budesonide from the valve which delivers 90 mcg of albuterol (equivalent to 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate) and 80 mcg of budesonide from the actuator. The actual amount of drug delivered to the lung may depend on patient factors, such as the coordination between actuation of the device and inhalation through the delivery system.
AIRSUPRA also contains porous particles that form a co-suspension with the drug crystals. The porous particles are comprised of the phospholipid 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC) and calcium chloride. Porous particles and HFA-134a are excipients in the formulation.
AIRSUPRA is indicated for the as-needed treatment or prevention of bronchoconstriction and to reduce the risk of exacerbations in patients with asthma 18 years of age and older.
The recommended dosage of AIRSUPRA is albuterol 180 mcg and budesonide 160 mcg (administered as 2 actuations of AIRSUPRA [albuterol/budesonide 90 mcg/80 mcg]) as needed for asthma symptoms by oral inhalation. Do not take more than 6 doses (12 inhalations) in a 24-hour period [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The canister has an attached dose indicator (also known as puff indicator) which indicates how many inhalations (puffs) remain. The dose indicator pointer will move after every actuation. The pointer will show the number of inhalations remaining in the canister. When nearing the end of the usable inhalations, the color behind the number in the dose indicator display window changes to yellow. AIRSUPRA should be discarded when the pointer reaches zero.
Inhalation Aerosol: a pressurized metered dose inhaler (a pressurized canister with an attached dose indicator, supplied with a white plastic actuator with a frosted clear plastic dust cap) that delivers a combination of albuterol 90 mcg and budesonide 80 mcg per actuation.
AIRSUPRA Inhalation Aerosol is supplied as a pressurized aluminum canister with an attached dose indicator and a white plastic actuator, with a frosted clear plastic dust cap tethered to it. Each canister is packaged in a foil overwrap pouch with a desiccant sachet and placed into a carton. Each carton contains one canister and a Patient Information leaflet. Each 120-inhalation canister has a net fill weight of 10.7 grams. AIRSUPRA is available in the following package size as presented in Table 3:
Table 3 Package Information for AIRSUPRA
| Package Size | Strength albuterol/budesonide |
Number of Inhalations per Canister |
NDC |
| AIRSUPRA | 90 mcg/80 mcg | 120 | 0310-9080-12 |
The AIRSUPRA canister should only be used with the AIRSUPRA actuator, and the AIRSUPRA actuator should not be used with any other inhalation drug product.
The correct amount of medication in each inhalation cannot be ensured after the labeled number of inhalations from the canister have been used, when the dose indicator pointer reaches zero, even though the canister may not feel completely empty. AIRSUPRA should be discarded when the dose indicator pointer reaches zero, or 12 months after removal of the foil pouch, whichever comes first. Never immerse the canister in water to determine the amount remaining in the canister (“float test”).
Store at controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP]. Keep in a dry place away from heat and sunlight.
For best results, the canister should be at room temperature before use. Shake well before using. Keep out of reach of children.
Contents under pressure. Do not puncture. Do not use or store near heat or open flame. Exposure to temperatures above 49°C (120°F) may cause bursting. Never throw canister into fire or incinerator. Avoid spraying in eyes.
Manufactured by: AstraZeneca Dunkerque Production (AZDP), Dunkerque, France. Revised: Mar 2024
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The safety of AIRSUPRA is based on data from 2 trials: MANDALA and DENALI [see Clinical Studies]. All reported safety data is based on patients who received AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg.
In MANDALA, in which patients with moderate to severe asthma were administered AIRSUPRA as needed, a total of 1015 patients 12 to 84 years of age (mean 51 years) received at least one dose of AIRSUPRA and participated in the study for a mean duration of 310 days. Of these, 905 patients were exposed for at least 24 weeks and 323 patients had exposure for at least 1 year. The mean daily use was 2.6 actuations. On the majority of study days, patients used 2 or less actuations; more than 8 actuations were used on less than 2% of study days. AIRSUPRA is not approved for patients 12 to 17 years of age.
The incidence of common adverse reactions in MANDALA is described in Table 1.
Table 1 Summary of Adverse Reactions with AIRSUPRA Reported in ≥ 1% of Patients (MANDALA)
| Adverse Reaction | AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg N = 1015 (%) |
AS MDI1 180 mcg N = 1015 (%) |
| Headache | 44 (4.3) | 50 (4.9) |
| Oral candidiasis2 | 13 (1.3) | 5 (0.5) |
| Cough | 10 (1.0) | 11 (1.1) |
| 1Albuterol Metered Dose Inhaler = AS MDI 2Oral candidiasis also includes those reactions reported under the preferred term oropharyngeal candidiasis |
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The safety profile of AIRSUPRA in MANDALA was similar across the 2 treatment groups irrespective of background ICS dose.
In DENALI, AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg was administered 4 times a day for 12 weeks. A total of 197 patients 13 to 81 years of age (mean 50 years) with mild to moderate asthma received at least 1 dose of AIRSUPRA. The adverse reactions profile was similar to MANDALA except for the following adverse reactions for AIRSUPRA with an incidence ≥ 1.0% that exceeded the incidence in MANDALA: headache (5.1%), dysphonia (2.0%), and oral/oropharyngeal candidiasis (1.5%), compared to headache (7.1%), dysphonia (0%), and oral/oropharyngeal candidiasis (0%) in the placebo arm.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of budesonide or albuterol. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Cardiovascular disorders: myocardial ischemia, tremor, tachycardia, palpitations, extrasystoles, arrhythmias (including atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia), syncope, hypertension, peripheral vasodilatation
Endocrine disorders: signs or symptoms of systemic glucocorticosteroid effect (including hypofunction of the adrenal gland and reduction of growth rate) Eye disorders: cataracts, glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure
Immune system disorders: immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylactic reaction, angioedema, bronchospasm, rash, contact dermatitis and urticaria)
General disorders: fever, weight gain, taste perversion, flu syndrome
Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, diarrhea
Infections: sinusitis, pharyngitis, respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, gastroenteritis, otitis media, laryngitis
Metabolic disorders: hypokalemia, metabolic acidosis
Musculoskeletal disorders: hypertonia, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, asthenia, arthralgia, muscle cramps, fracture
Neurological or psychiatric system disorders: migraine, dizziness, central nervous system stimulation, insomnia, hyperactivity, psychiatric symptoms (including psychosis, depression, aggressive reactions, irritability, nervousness, restlessness, behavioral disturbances and anxiety)
Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: rhinitis, nasal congestion, throat irritation, oropharyngeal edema, upper respiratory inflammation, drying or irritation of the oropharynx
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: skin bruising, ecchymosis
No formal drug interaction studies have been performed with AIRSUPRA.
The main route of metabolism of corticosteroids, including budesonide, a component of AIRSUPRA, is via cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A4 (CYP3A4). After oral administration of ketoconazole, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, the mean plasma concentration of orally administered budesonide increased. Concomitant administration of a CYP3A4 inhibitor may inhibit the metabolism of, and increase the systemic exposure to, budesonide. Caution should be exercised when considering the co-administration of AIRSUPRA with long-term ketoconazole and other known strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, saquinavir, telithromycin) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
AIRSUPRA contains the short-acting beta-agonist, albuterol. Therefore, concomitant use of additional beta-agonists with AIRSUPRA should be used judiciously to prevent betaagonist overdose.
Beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents not only block the pulmonary effect of betaagonists, such as albuterol, a component of AIRSUPRA, but may also produce severe bronchospasm in patients with asthma. Therefore, patients with asthma should not normally be treated with beta-blockers. However, under certain circumstances, e.g., as prophylaxis after myocardial infarction, there may be no acceptable alternatives to the use of beta-adrenergic-blocking agents in these patients. In this setting, consider cardioselective beta-blockers, although they should be administered with caution.
The ECG changes and/or hypokalemia which may result from the administration of nonpotassium- sparing diuretics (such as loop or thiazide diuretics) can be acutely worsened by beta-agonists, especially when the recommended dose of the beta-agonist is exceeded. Although the clinical significance of these effects is not known, caution is advised in the coadministration of AIRSUPRA with non-potassium-sparing diuretics. Consider monitoring potassium levels.
Mean decreases of 16% and 22% in serum digoxin levels were demonstrated after single-dose intravenous and oral administration of albuterol, respectively, to normal volunteers who had received digoxin for 10 days. The clinical significance of these findings for patients with obstructive airway disease who are receiving albuterol and digoxin on a chronic basis is unclear. Nevertheless, it would be prudent to carefully evaluate the serum digoxin levels in patients who are currently receiving digoxin and AIRSUPRA.
AIRSUPRA should be administered with extreme caution to patients being treated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants, or within 2 weeks of discontinuation of such agents, because the action of albuterol on the cardiovascular system may be potentiated.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Asthma may deteriorate acutely over a period of hours or chronically over several days or longer. If the patient continues to experience symptoms after using AIRSUPRA or requires more doses of AIRSUPRA than usual, this may be a marker of destabilization of asthma and requires evaluation of the patient and their treatment regimen.
AIRSUPRA can produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs following dosing with AIRSUPRA, it should be discontinued immediately, and alternative therapy should be instituted. It should be recognized that paradoxical bronchospasm, when associated with inhaled formulations, frequently occurs with the first use of a new canister.
AIRSUPRA, like other drugs containing beta -adrenergic agonists, can produce clinically significant cardiovascular effects in some patients as measured by increases in pulse rate, blood pressure, and/or other symptoms. If such effects occur, AIRSUPRA may need to be discontinued. In addition, beta-agonists have been reported to produce electrocardiogram (ECG) changes, such as flattening of the T wave, prolongation of the QTc interval, and ST-segment depression. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Therefore, AIRSUPRA, like all sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension.
As with other inhaled drugs containing beta-adrenergic agents, AIRSUPRA should not be used more than the maximum daily dose [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION], as an overdose may result. Clinically significant cardiovascular effects and fatalities have been reported in association with excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs.
Hypersensitivity reactions can occur after administration of albuterol sulfate and budesonide, components of AIRSUPRA, as demonstrated by cases of anaphylaxis, angioedema, bronchospasm, oropharyngeal edema, rash, and urticaria. Discontinue AIRSUPRA if such reactions occur [see CONTRAINDICATIONS].
AIRSUPRA, like all therapies containing sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with convulsive disorders, hyperthyroidism, or diabetes mellitus and in patients who are unusually responsive to sympathomimetic amines. Large doses of intravenous albuterol have been reported to aggravate preexisting diabetes mellitus and ketoacidosis.
Beta-adrenergic agonist medicines may produce significant hypokalemia in some patients, possibly through intracellular shunting, which has the potential to produce adverse cardiovascular effects [see Cardiovascular Effects, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. The decrease in serum potassium is usually transient, not requiring supplementation.
Patients who are using drugs that suppress the immune system are more susceptible to infection. Chicken pox and measles, for example, can have a more serious or even fatal course in susceptible patients using corticosteroids. In patients who have not had these diseases or been properly immunized, particular care should be taken to avoid exposure. How the dose, route, and duration of corticosteroid administration affects the risk of developing a disseminated infection is not known. The contribution of the underlying disease and/or prior corticosteroid treatment to the risk is also not known. If a patient is exposed to chicken pox, prophylaxis with varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG) may be indicated. If exposed to measles, prophylaxis with pooled intramuscular immunoglobulin (IG) may be indicated (see the respective Prescribing Information for VZIG and IG). If chicken pox develops, treatment with antiviral agents may be considered.
Inhaled corticosteroids should be used with caution, if at all, in patients with active or quiescent tuberculosis infection of the respiratory tract; untreated systemic fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections; or ocular herpes simplex.
AIRSUPRA contains budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Localized infections of the mouth and pharynx with Candida albicans have occurred in patients treated with ICS agents. Monitor patients periodically. When such an infection develops, it should be treated with appropriate local or systemic (i.e., oral) antifungal therapy while treatment with AIRSUPRA continues. In some cases, therapy with AIRSUPRA may need to be interrupted. Advise the patient to rinse his/her mouth with water, if available, without swallowing following administration of AIRSUPRA to help reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis.
Budesonide, a component of AIRSUPRA, will often help control asthma symptoms with less suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) function than therapeutically equivalent oral doses of prednisone. Since budesonide is absorbed into the circulation and can be systemically active at higher doses, the beneficial effects of AIRSUPRA in minimizing HPA dysfunction may be expected only when recommended dosages are not exceeded. Since individual sensitivity to effects on cortisol production exists, physicians should consider this information when prescribing AIRSUPRA.
Because of the possibility of systemic absorption of ICS, patients treated with AIRSUPRA should be observed carefully for any evidence of systemic corticosteroid effects. Particular care should be taken in observing patients postoperatively or during periods of stress for evidence of inadequate adrenal response.
It is possible that systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal suppression (including adrenal crisis) may appear in a small number of patients who are sensitive to these effects. If such effects occur, appropriate therapy should be initiated as needed.
Decreases in bone mineral density (BMD) have been observed with long-term administration of products containing ICS. The clinical significance of small changes in BMD with regard to long-term consequences such as fracture is unknown. Patients with major risk factors for decreased bone mineral content, such as prolonged immobilization, family history of osteoporosis, post-menopausal status, tobacco use, advanced age, poor nutrition, or chronic use of drugs that can reduce bone mass (e.g., anticonvulsants, oral corticosteroids) should be monitored and treated with established standards of care.
Glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, and cataracts have been reported following the long-term administration of ICS, including budesonide, a component of AIRSUPRA. Consider referral to an ophthalmologist in patients who develop ocular symptoms.
Caution should be exercised when considering the co-administration of AIRSUPRA with long-term ketoconazole and other known strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, saquinavir, telithromycin) because adverse effects related to increased systemic exposure to budesonide may occur [see DRUG INTERACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Orally inhaled corticosteroids, including budesonide, may cause a reduction in growth velocity when administered to pediatric patients. The safety and effectiveness of AIRSUPRA have not been established in pediatric patients, and AIRSUPRA is not indicated for use in this population [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION and Instructions for Use).
Inform patients to seek medical attention immediately if treatment with AIRSUPRA becomes less effective for symptomatic relief, and/or symptoms become worse [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to discontinue AIRSUPRA and contact their healthcare provider right away if they develop paradoxical bronchospasm [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients concerning the recommended dosage of AIRSUPRA and not to exceed 6 doses (12 inhalations) in a 24-hour period [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider and discontinue AIRSUPRA if hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, rash, urticaria, angioedema, and bronchospasm) occur with AIRSUPRA use [WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to prime the inhaler before using for the first time, when the inhaler has not been used for more than 7 days, is dropped, or after cleaning and to shake well before each spray.
To ensure proper dosing and to prevent actuator mouthpiece blockage, instruct patients how to clean the actuator [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE].
Advise patients concerning the appropriate use of other short-acting bronchodilators while using AIRSUPRA [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Warn patients who are on immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids to avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles and, if exposed, to consult their physician without delay. Patients should be informed of potential worsening of existing tuberculosis, fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, or ocular herpes simplex [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Patients should be advised that localized infections with Candida albicans occurred in the mouth and pharynx in some patients. Advise patients to rinse the mouth with water, if available, without swallowing after AIRSUPRA inhalation to help reduce the risk of thrush [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that AIRSUPRA may cause systemic corticosteroid effects of hypercorticism and adrenal suppression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients who are at an increased risk for decreased BMD that the use of AIRSUPRA may pose an additional risk [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients that long-term use of AIRSUPRA may increase the risk of increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and cataracts; consider regular eye examinations [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise pregnant women that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to asthma medications during pregnancy and to contact the MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies at 1-877-311-8972 or visit https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/asthma/.
No studies of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or impairment of fertility were conducted with AIRSUPRA; however, available studies for the individual components, albuterol and budesonide, are described below. Findings are reported based on the MRHDID for albuterol and budesonide contained in AIRSUPRA.
In a 2-year study in Sprague-Dawley rats, albuterol sulfate caused a dose-related increase in the incidence of benign leiomyomas of the mesovarium at and above dietary doses of 2 mg/kg/day (approximately 15 times the MRHDID for adults on a mg/m2 basis). In another study this effect was blocked by the coadministration of propranolol, a nonselective beta-adrenergic antagonist. In an 18-month study in CD-1 mice, albuterol sulfate showed no evidence of tumorigenicity at dietary doses of up to 500 mg/kg/day (approximately 1,900 times the MRHDID for adults on a mg/m2 basis). In a 22-month study in Golden Hamsters, albuterol sulfate showed no evidence of tumorigenicity at dietary doses of up to 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 250 times the MRHDID for adults on a mg/m2 basis).
Albuterol sulfate was not mutagenic in the Ames test or a mutation test in yeast. Albuterol sulfate was not clastogenic in a human peripheral lymphocyte assay or in an AH1 strain mouse micronucleus assay.
Reproduction studies in rats demonstrated no evidence of impaired fertility at oral doses up to 50 mg/kg/day (approximately 380 times the MRHDID for adults on a mg/m2 basis).
In a 2-year study in Sprague-Dawley rats, budesonide caused a statistically significant increase in the incidence of gliomas in male rats receiving an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.5 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis). No tumorigenicity was seen in male rats at oral doses up to 25 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.5 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis) and in female rats at oral doses up to 50 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.5 times the MRHDID doses in adults on a mcg/m2 basis). In two additional 2-year studies in male Fischer and Sprague-Dawley rats, budesonide caused no gliomas at an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.5 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis). However, in the male Sprague-Dawley rats, budesonide caused a statistically significant increase in the incidence of hepatocellular tumors at an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.5 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis). The concurrent reference corticosteroids (prednisone and triamcinolone acetonide) in these two studies showed similar findings.
There was no evidence of a carcinogenic effect when budesonide was administered orally for 91 weeks to mice at doses up to 200 mcg/kg/day (equal to the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis). Budesonide was not mutagenic or clastogenic in six different test systems: Ames Salmonella/microsome plate test, mouse micronucleus test, mouse lymphoma test, chromosome aberration test in human lymphocytes, sex-linked recessive lethal test in Drosophila melanogaster, and DNA repair analysis in rat hepatocyte culture.
Fertility and reproductive performance were unaffected in rats at subcutaneous doses up to 80 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.8 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis). At a subcutaneous dose of 20 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.2 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis), decreases in maternal body weight gain, prenatal viability, and viability of the young at birth and during lactation were observed. No such effects were noted at 5 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.05 times the MRHDID in adults on a mcg/m2 basis).
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to asthma medications during pregnancy. For more information, contact the MotherToBaby Pregnancy Studies conducted by the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists at 1-877-311-8972 or visit https://mothertobaby.org/ongoingstudy/ asthma/.
Available data from published case series, epidemiological studies and reviews with budesonide use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-related risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Available data from epidemiological studies and postmarketing case reports of pregnancy outcomes following inhaled albuterol use do not consistently demonstrate a risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. The available epidemiological studies have methodologic limitations, including inconsistent comparator groups, definitions of outcomes, and assessment of disease impact. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with asthma in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations). Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with AIRSUPRA, however, animal studies are available with its individual components, albuterol and budesonide.
Administration of albuterol to mice and rabbits during the period of organogenesis revealed evidence of adverse developmental outcomes (cleft palate in mice, delayed ossification in rabbits) at less than maximum recommended human daily inhalation dose (MRHDID) (see Data).
In animal reproduction studies, budesonide, administered by the subcutaneous route, caused structural abnormalities, was embryocidal, and reduced fetal weights in rats and rabbits at less than the MRHDID in adults, but these effects were not seen in rats that received inhaled doses approximately 2.5 times the MRHDID in adults (see Data).
Experience with oral corticosteroids suggests that rodents are more prone to structural abnormalities from corticosteroid exposure than humans.
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage of the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal risk
In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of several perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. Pregnant women with asthma should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal asthma control.
Labor or Delivery
Because of the potential for beta-agonist interference with uterine contractility, use of AIRSUPRA during labor should be restricted to those patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risk. AIRSUPRA has not been approved for the management of preterm labor. Serious adverse reactions, including pulmonary edema, have been reported during or following treatment of premature labor with beta -agonists, including albuterol.
Animal Data
Albuterol
In a study in pregnant mice, subcutaneously administered albuterol sulfate produced cleft palate formation in 5 of 111 (4.5%) fetuses at an exposure less than the MRHDID in adults (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 0.25 mg/kg) and in 10 of 108 (9.3%) fetuses at approximately 9 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 2.5 mg/kg). Cleft palate also occurred in 22 of 72 (30.5%) fetuses from females treated subcutaneously with isoproterenol, another beta -agonist.
In a study in pregnant rabbits, orally administered albuterol sulfate produced cranioschisis in 7 of 19 fetuses (37%) at approximately 750 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mg/m2 basis at a maternal dose of 50 mg/kg).
In a study in pregnant rabbits, an albuterol/HFA-134a formulation administered by inhalation produced enlargement of the frontal portion of the fetal fontanelles at approximately one third of the MRHDID on a mg/m2 basis.
A study in which pregnant rats were dosed with radiolabeled albuterol sulfate demonstrated that drug-related material is transferred from the maternal circulation to the fetus.
In a fertility and reproduction study, male rats were subcutaneously dosed with budesonide for 9 weeks and females for 2 weeks prior to pairing and throughout the mating period. Females were dosed up until weaning of their offspring. Budesonide caused a decrease in prenatal viability and viability in the pups at birth and during lactation, along with a decrease in maternal body-weight gain, at doses 0.2 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg/day and above). No such effects were noted at a dose 0.05 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 5 mcg/kg/day).
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rabbits dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-18, budesonide produced fetal loss, decreased fetal weight, and skeletal abnormalities at doses 0.5 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 25 mcg/kg/day). In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-15, budesonide produced similar adverse fetal effects at doses approximately 5 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 500 mcg/kg/day). In another embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats, no structural abnormalities or embryocidal effects were seen at doses approximately 2.5 times the MRHDID in adults (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal inhalation doses up to 250 mcg/kg/day).
In a peri- and post-natal development study, rats were dosed from gestation day 15 to postpartum day 21. Budesonide had no effects on delivery but did have an effect on growth and development of offspring. Offspring survival was reduced and surviving offspring had decreased mean body weights at birth and during lactation at doses 0.2 times the MRHDID in adults and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg/day and higher). These findings occurred in the presence of maternal toxicity.
There are no available data on the effects of AIRSUPRA on the breastfed child or on milk production.
There are no available data on the presence of albuterol in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. However, plasma levels of albuterol after inhaled therapeutic doses are low in humans, and if present in breast milk, are likely to be correspondingly low.
Budesonide, like other inhaled corticosteroids, is present in human milk (see Data).
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for AIRSUPRA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from AIRSUPRA or from the underlying maternal condition.
One published study reports that budesonide is present in human milk following maternal inhalation of budesonide, which resulted in infant doses approximately 0.3% to 1% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage and a milk to plasma ratio was approximately 0.5. Budesonide was not detected in plasma, and no adverse events were noted in the breastfed infants following maternal use of inhaled budesonide.
For AIRSUPRA, the dose of budesonide available to the infant in breast milk, as a percentage of the maternal dose, would be expected to be similar.
Budesonide levels in plasma samples obtained from five infants at about 90 minutes after breastfeeding (and about 140 minutes after drug administration to the mother) were below quantifiable levels (< 0.02 nmol/L in four infants and < 0.04 nmol/L in one infant).
The safety and effectiveness of AIRSUPRA have not been established in pediatric patients. A limited number of pediatric patients (4 to 17 years of age) were enrolled in the efficacy trial (MANDALA) to evaluate AIRSUPRA to reduce the risk of severe asthma exacerbations. The primary efficacy endpoint was time to first severe asthma exacerbation. Results showed there were 9 patients with severe exacerbation events in 34 patients 12 to 17 years of age treated with AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg and 7 patients with severe exacerbation events in 34 patients treated with albuterol (AS MDI) [HR 1.44 (0.54, 3.87)]. There were 11 patients with severe exacerbation events in 41 patients 4 to 11 years of age treated with albuterol/budesonide (AS-BD MDI) 180 mcg/80 mcg and 10 in the 42 patients 4 to 11 years of age treated with AS MDI [HR: 1.09 (0.46, 2.56)]. These data are inadequate to make a determination regarding the safety or effectiveness of AIRSUPRA or AS-BD 180 mcg/80 mcg in pediatric patients 4 to 17 years of age [see Clinical Studies].
Controlled clinical studies have shown that ICS agents, including budesonide, one of the components of AIRSUPRA, may cause a reduction in growth velocity in pediatric patients. The effects of long-term treatment of pediatric patients with ICS on final adult height are not known [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
There were 741 patients 65 years of age and older in the clinical studies for asthma [see Clinical Studies]. Of the total number of AIRSUPRA-treated patients in these studies, 231 (19%) were 65 years of age and older, while 41 (3%) were 75 years of age and older. In general, no differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
As with other products containing beta2-agonists, special caution should be observed when using AIRSUPRA in geriatric patients who have concomitant cardiovascular disease that could be adversely affected by this class of drug.
All beta2-adrenergic agonists, including albuterol, are known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of toxic reactions may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Because geriatric patients are more likely to have decreased renal function, care should be taken when dosing, and it may be useful to monitor renal function.
Formal pharmacokinetic studies using AIRSUPRA have not been conducted in patients with hepatic impairment. However, since budesonide is predominantly cleared by hepatic metabolism, impairment of liver function may lead to accumulation of budesonide in the plasma. Therefore, patients with hepatic disease should be closely monitored.
Formal pharmacokinetic studies using AIRSUPRA have not been conducted in patients with renal impairment.
AIRSUPRA contains both albuterol and budesonide; therefore, the risks associated with overdosage for the individual components described below apply to AIRSUPRA.
The expected symptoms with overdosage are those of excessive beta-adrenergic stimulation and/or occurrence or exaggeration of any of the symptoms of betaadrenergic stimulation (e.g., seizures, angina, hypertension or hypotension, tachycardia with rates up to 200 beats/minute, arrhythmias, nervousness, headache, tremor, muscle cramps, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, insomnia, hyperglycemia, and metabolic acidosis).
Hypokalemia may also occur. As with all sympathomimetic medications, cardiac arrest and even death may be associated with abuse of AIRSUPRA.
Treatment consists of discontinuation of AIRSUPRA together with appropriate symptomatic therapy. The judicious use of a cardioselective beta-receptor blocker may be considered, bearing in mind that such medication can produce bronchospasm. There is insufficient evidence to determine if dialysis is beneficial for overdosage of AIRSUPRA.
If used at excessive doses for prolonged periods, systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism may occur [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
AIRSUPRA is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to albuterol, budesonide, or any of the excipients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, DESCRIPTION].
AIRSUPRA contains both albuterol and budesonide; therefore, the mechanisms of action described below for the individual components apply to AIRSUPRA. These drugs represent two classes of medications (a short-acting selective beta -adrenergic agonist and a synthetic corticosteroid) that have different effects on clinical, physiological, and inflammatory indices of asthma.
In vitro studies and in vivo pharmacologic studies have demonstrated that albuterol has a preferential effect on beta2-adrenergic receptors compared with isoproterenol. Although beta2-adrenoceptors are the predominant adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle and beta2-adrenoceptors are the predominant receptors in the heart, there are also beta2-adrenoceptors in the human heart comprising 10% to 50% of the total beta-adrenoceptors. The precise function of these receptors has not been established, but their presence raises the possibility that even selective beta -agonists may have cardiac effects.
Activation of beta -adrenergic receptors on airway smooth muscle leads to the activation of adenyl cyclase and to an increase in the intracellular concentration of cyclic- 3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP). This increase of cyclic AMP leads to the activation of protein kinase A, which inhibits the phosphorylation of myosin and lowers intracellular ionic calcium concentrations, resulting in relaxation. Albuterol relaxes the smooth muscles of all airways, from the trachea to the terminal bronchioles. Albuterol acts as a functional antagonist to relax the airway irrespective of the spasmogen involved, thus protecting against all bronchoconstrictor challenges. Increased cyclic AMP concentrations are also associated with the inhibition of release of mediators from mast cells in the airway.
Albuterol has been shown in most controlled clinical trials to have more effect on the respiratory tract, in the form of bronchial smooth muscle relaxation, than isoproterenol at comparable doses while producing fewer cardiovascular effects. Controlled clinical studies and other clinical experience have shown that inhaled albuterol, like other betaadrenergic agonist drugs, can produce a significant cardiovascular effect in some patients, as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and/or electrocardiographic changes [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Budesonide is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid that exhibits potent glucocorticoid activity and weak mineralocorticoid activity. In standard in vitro and animal models, budesonide has approximately a 200-fold higher affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor and a 1000-fold higher topical anti-inflammatory potency than cortisol (rat croton oil ear edema assay). As a measure of systemic activity, budesonide is 40 times more potent than cortisol when administered subcutaneously and 25 times more potent when administered orally in the rat thymus involution assay. The clinical significance of this is unknown.
In glucocorticoid receptor affinity studies, the 22R form was two times as active as the 22S epimer. In vitro studies indicated that the two forms of budesonide do not interconvert.
The precise mechanism of corticosteroid actions on inflammation in asthma is not known. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Corticosteroids have a wide range of inhibitory activities against multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, and cytokines) involved in allergic and nonallergic- mediated inflammation. These anti-inflammatory actions of corticosteroids may contribute to their efficacy in asthma.
Studies in asthmatic patients have shown a favorable ratio between topical antiinflammatory activity and both genomic and non-genomic systemic corticosteroid effects over a wide range of doses of inhaled budesonide. This is explained by a combination of a relatively high local anti-inflammatory effect, extensive first pass hepatic degradation of orally absorbed drug (85-95%), and the low potency of formed metabolites (see below).
Albuterol has been shown in most controlled clinical trials to have more effect on the respiratory tract in the form of bronchial smooth muscle relaxation than isoproterenol at comparable doses while producing fewer cardiovascular effects. Controlled clinical studies and other clinical experience have shown that inhaled albuterol, like other betaadrenergic agonist drugs, can produce a significant cardiovascular effect in some patients, as measured by pulse rate, blood pressure, symptoms, and/or electrocardiographic changes [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The therapeutic effects of conventional doses of orally inhaled budesonide are largely explained by its direct local action on the respiratory tract.
Inhaled budesonide has been shown to decrease airway reactivity in various challenge models, including histamine, methacholine, sodium metabisulfite, and adenosine monophosphate in patients with hyperreactive airways. The clinical relevance of these models is not certain.
HPA Axis Effects
AIRSUPRA, like other inhaled corticosteroid products, may impact the HPA axis, especially in susceptible individuals, in younger children, and in patients given high doses for prolonged periods [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The effects of AIRSUPRA on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis were not studied in dedicated clinical trials.
The effects of inhaled AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg and AS-BD MDI 180 mcg/80 mcg administered as 2 inhalations of 90 mcg/80 mcg or 90 mcg/40 mcg as needed in response to symptoms were studied on morning serum cortisol in 1254 patients in MANDALA with moderate to severe asthma between the ages of 4 and 84 years.
Morning serum cortisol was collected at baseline, Week 24, end of study, or time of discontinuation. Morning cortisol concentration changes over time varied across treatment groups with mean changes from baseline to the Week 24 visit of –1.52 nmol/L, +5.43 nmol/L, and +15.42 nmol/L in the AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg, AS-BD MDI 180 mcg/80 mcg, and AS MDI 180 mcg treatment groups, respectively.
The pharmacokinetics of AIRSUPRA and its individual components were evaluated in 3 studies in subjects 18 years of age and older (2 studies in healthy subjects and 1 study in patients with asthma). The pharmacokinetics of albuterol and budesonide from AIRSUPRA are comparable to the pharmacokinetics of albuterol and budesonide when administered as single dose of the individual components in studies of healthy subjects. The pharmacokinetics presented below are primarily from studies conducted on AIRSUPRA and on its individual components, albuterol (AS MDI) and budesonide (BD MDI), also administered by the inhaled route.
Albuterol
Healthy Subjects: Following inhaled administration of AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg (administered as 2 inhalations of 90 mcg/80 mcg), the median tmax of albuterol was 1.00 hour (individual values ranged from 0.08 to 6.05 hours). Geometric mean Cmax was 472.2 pg/mL (individual values ranged from 38.4 to 971 pg/mL).
Asthma Patients: Following increasing cumulative doses (a total dose of 1440 mcg) of albuterol (AS MDI) and an active albuterol aerosol inhaler comparator in patients with mild to moderate asthma, mean albuterol plasma concentrations (at 15 minutes after dose) increased from predose levels (44.2 and 51.4 pg/mL) to 3278.0 pg/mL and 5241.7 pg/mL with AS MDI and the comparator, respectively. Results from this study indicate the total systemic exposure of albuterol was 21% (for AUC) and 27% (for Cmax) lower for AS MDI than for the comparator.
Budesonide
Healthy Subjects: Following inhaled administration in healthy subjects of AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg (administered as 2 inhalations of 90 mcg/80 mcg), the median tmax of budesonide was 0.33 hours (individual values ranged from 0.08 to 4.00 hours). Geometric mean Cmax was 272.8 pg/mL (individual values ranged from 51.7 to 819 pg/mL). Systemic exposure to budesonide with AIRSUPRA did not exceed that from inhaled budesonide via a dry powder inhaler comparator in healthy subjects.
Albuterol
Healthy Subjects: Following inhaled administration of AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg (administered as 2 inhalations of 90 mcg/80 mcg), the mean apparent volume of distribution (Vz/F) of albuterol was 565.7 L.
Budesonide
Healthy Subjects: Following inhaled administration of AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg (administered as 2 inhalations of 90 mcg/80 mcg), the mean apparent volume of distribution (Vz/F) of budesonide administered in AIRSUPRA was 1002 L.
Budesonide was 85-90% bound to plasma proteins. Protein binding was constant over the concentration range of 1–100 nmol/L. Budesonide showed little or no binding to corticosteroid binding globulin. Budesonide rapidly equilibrated with red blood cells in a concentration independent manner with a blood/plasma ratio of about 0.8.
Elimination
Following inhaled single-dose administration with AIRSUPRA in healthy subjects, the mean terminal half-life of albuterol was estimated to be 7.1 hours (individual values ranged from 4.62 to 10.0 hours) and the mean terminal half-life of budesonide was estimated to be 4.1 hours (individual values ranges from 2.46 to 6.15 hours).
Metabolism
Albuterol
Information available in the published literature suggests that the primary enzyme responsible for the metabolism of albuterol in humans is SULTIA3 (sulfotransferase).
Budesonide
In vitro studies with human liver homogenates have shown that budesonide is rapidly and extensively metabolized. Two major metabolites formed via cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A4 (CYP3A4) catalyzed biotransformation have been isolated and identified as 16α-hydroxyprednisolone and 6β-hydroxybudesonide. The corticosteroid activity of each of these two metabolites is less than 1% of that of the parent compound. No qualitative differences between the in vitro and in vivo metabolic patterns have been detected. Negligible metabolic inactivation was observed in human lung and serum preparations.
Albuterol
The primary route of elimination of albuterol is through renal excretion of either the parent compound or the primary metabolite.
Budesonide
Budesonide is excreted in urine and feces in the form of metabolites. Approximately 60% of an intravenous radiolabeled dose was recovered in the urine. No unchanged budesonide was detected in the urine.
Specific studies to examine the effects of age, sex, gender/ethnicity, or body weight on the pharmacokinetics of AIRSUPRA have not been conducted.
There are no data regarding the specific use of AIRSUPRA in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of albuterol was evaluated in 5 patients with creatinine clearance of 7 to 53 mL/min, and the results were compared with those from healthy volunteers. Renal disease had no effect on the half-life, but there was a 67% decline in albuterol clearance. Caution should be used when administering high doses of AIRSUPRA to patients with renal impairment.
Reduced liver function may affect the elimination of corticosteroids. The pharmacokinetics of budesonide were affected by compromised liver function as evidenced by a doubled systemic availability after oral ingestion. The intravenous pharmacokinetics of budesonide were, however, similar in cirrhotic patients and in healthy subjects.
Ketoconazole
As a strong inhibitor of cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A4 (CYP3A4), the main metabolic enzyme for corticosteroids, ketoconazole increased plasma levels of orally ingested budesonide [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Cimetidine
At recommended doses, cimetidine, a nonspecific inhibitor of CYP enzymes, had a slight but clinically insignificant effect on the pharmacokinetics of oral budesonide.
The efficacy of AIRSUPRA was evaluated in MANDALA and DENALI as described below. While patients 12 to 17 years were included in these trials, AIRSUPRA is not approved in this age group; therefore, efficacy results are presented for adults only.
The efficacy of AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg was evaluated in patients 12 years of age and older with moderate to severe asthma in MANDALA (NCT03769090), a randomized, double-blind, multicenter study. MANDALA was a variable length exacerbation study with at least 24 weeks duration.
Patients 12 years of age and older were randomized (1:1:1) and received at least one dose of AIRSUPRA (AS-BD MDI 180 mcg/160 mcg), albuterol/budesonide (AS-BD MDI 180 mcg/80 mcg) or albuterol (AS MDI 180 mcg) as needed. Patients were required to be receiving medium to high dose ICS or low to high dose ICS/long-acting beta - adrenergic agonists (LABA), with or without another controller medicine as maintenance therapy. All patients continued their own maintenance therapy throughout the trial. MANDALA was conducted in symptomatic patients with moderate to severe asthma, a history of at least 1 severe asthma exacerbation in the year prior to screening, prebronchodilator FEV 40 to < 90% of predicted normal (for patients aged 12 to < 18 years old, ≥ 60%) and a confirmed reversibility to albuterol.
The adult efficacy population (n=2940) in MANDALA had a mean age of 52 years (range: 18-84 years), with 66% female and 82% Caucasian, and 25% of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. The median duration of asthma was 21 years (range 1 to 80 years) since the first diagnosis of asthma. The mean pre-bronchodilator percent predicted FEV was 63% (range 33% - 101%).
The overall patterns of use of AIRSUPRA and AS MDI 180 mcg were similar during the randomized treatment period.
The primary efficacy endpoint was the time to first severe asthma exacerbation (defined as worsening or onset of asthma symptoms that required systemic corticosteroids for at least 3 days or an emergency room visit that led to the use of systemic corticosteroids for at least 3 days or a hospitalization for at least 24 hours due to asthma).
Efficacy results are shown for only the approved adult population. Treatment with AIRSUPRA, compared with AS MDI 180 mcg, demonstrated statistically significant reductions in the risk of severe asthma exacerbations among adult patients, as assessed by the time to first severe asthma exacerbation as described in Figure 1. Compared with AS MDI 180 mcg, patients receiving AIRSUPRA experienced a statistically significant 28% reduction (Hazard Ratio [HR] 0.72; 95% CI: 0.60, 0.86) in the risk of a severe asthma exacerbation (p<0.001).
Figure 1. Kaplan-Meier Cumulative Incidence Curve for Time to First Exacerbation1
 |
There were reductions in severe asthma exacerbation risk regardless of exacerbation history (1 or > 1 in the past year), baseline lung function, and asthma severity (defined by background maintenance therapy) compared with AS MDI 180 mcg.
Treatment with AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg statistically significantly reduced the annual rate of severe asthma exacerbations by 24% compared with AS MDI 180 mcg as shown in Table 2.
Table 2 Annualized Rate of Severe Exacerbations in Patients with Moderate to Severe Asthma
| Analysis Group | n | Number of Severe Exacerbations | Annualized Rate | Rate Ratio vs AS MDI (95% CI) |
P-value | |
| AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg |
≥ 18 years | 979 | 324 | 0.46 | 0.76 (0.62, 0.93) | p=0.008 |
| AS MDI 180 mcg | ≥ 18 years | 980 | 403 | 0.60 |
The annualized total systemic corticosteroid (SCS) dose due to asthma was calculated for each patient during the study period. For patients treated with AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg the annualized total SCS dose when compared with AS MDI 180 mcg was statistically significantly different, with a reduction in mean annualized dose of 40 mg per patient [AIRSUPRA (87 mg) vs AS MDI 180 (127 mg)].
Asthma control was assessed using the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-5) responder analysis. Responders were defined as those patients with an improvement of 0.5 or more in overall ACQ-5 score at Week 24 compared to baseline. The percentage of ACQ-5 adult responders at Week 24 for AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg was 67% compared with 63% for AS MDI 180 mcg (odds ratio 1.21; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.46).
Asthma quality of life was assessed using the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire in patients 12 years of age and older (AQLQ+12). Responders were defined as those with an improvement of 0.5 or more in AQLQ score at Week 24 compared to baseline. The percentage of adult responders at Week 24 for AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg was 52% (odds ratio 1.22; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.47) compared with 47% for AS MDI 180 mcg.
The efficacy of AIRSUPRA on lung function was evaluated in patients 12 years of age and older with mild to moderate asthma who were previously treated with as-needed short-acting beta -agonists (SABA) alone or with low-dose ICS maintenance therapy plus as-needed SABA. DENALI (NCT03847896) was a double-blind, active-comparator and placebo-controlled lung function study conducted over 12 weeks. Patients were randomized 1:1:1:1:1 to receive AIRSUPRA (AS-BD MDI 180 mcg/160 mcg), AS-BD MDI 180 mcg/80 mcg, BD MDI 160 mcg, AS MDI 180 mcg, or Placebo MDI, all administered 4 times daily. Only the results for the approved recommended dose of AIRSUPRA are described below.
The population 18 years of age and older (n=964) had a mean age of 50 years (range: 18-90 years) with 63% female and 89% Caucasian, and 28% of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity.
Efficacy results are presented for only the approved adult population. The onset of bronchodilation (as defined by a ≥ 15% increase in FEV1 post-dose within 30 minutes on Day 1) was observed in 51% of patients treated with AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg and 43% of patients treated with AS MDI 180 mcg. Following a single dose on Day 1, the median time to onset and mean duration of bronchodilation were 7.5 and 186.9 minutes with AIRSUPRA 180 mcg/160 mcg and 10.0 and 167.9 minutes with AS MDI 180 mcg, respectively.
AIRSUPRA®
(ayr soo' prah)
(albuterol and budesonide) inhalation aerosol, for oral inhalation use
What is AIRSUPRA?
AIRSUPRA combines 2 medicines, a short/rapid-acting beta -adrenergic agonist (SABA) medicine (albuterol sulfate) and an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) medicine (budesonide), in 1 inhaler, delivered as a propelled spray.
Do not use AIRSUPRA if you
Before using AIRSUPRA, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. AIRSUPRA and certain other medicines may affect each other causing side effects. Especially, tell your healthcare provider if you take:
Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of these medicines, if you are not sure.
Know the medicines that you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist each time you get a new medicine.
How should I use AIRSUPRA?
Read the step-by-step instructions for using AIRSUPRA at the end of this Patient Information leaflet.
What are the possible side effects of AIRSUPRA?
AIRSUPRA can cause serious side effects, including:
Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency include:
Call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you have symptoms of any of the serious side effects listed above.
Common side effects of AIRSUPRA include:
Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
These are not all the side effects of AIRSUPRA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to AstraZeneca at 1-800-236- 9933.
How should I store AIRSUPRA?
Keep AIRSUPRA and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of AIRSUPRA
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use AIRSUPRA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give your AIRSUPRA to other people, even if they have the same condition that you have. It may harm them.
You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about AIRSUPRA that is written for healthcare professionals.
What are the ingredients in AIRSUPRA?
Active ingredients: micronized albuterol sulfate and micronized budesonide.
Inactive ingredients: hydrofluoroalkane (HFA 134a) and porous particles 1,2- Distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DSPC) and calcium chloride.
This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
AIRSUPRA®
(ayr soo' prah)
(albuterol and budesonide) inhalation aerosol, for oral inhalation use
120-inhalation canister
Read this Instructions for Use before you start using AIRSUPRA and each time you get a new refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
Important information
Parts of your AIRSUPRA inhaler
 |
Reading the puff indicator
Do not try to take a puff of medicine when the pointer is at 0 because you will not receive a full dose.
Before using your AIRSUPRA inhaler
1. Write the Use by date
Write the Use By Date (12 months after you open the foil pouch) on the actuator label using permanent ink.
 |
Write the Use By Date on the actuator label
2. Prime your AIRSUPRA inhaler before first use
Take the cover off the mouthpiece by squeezing both sides of the cover while pulling it down.
 |
Shake the inhaler well. Hold your AIRSUPRA inhaler facing away from you and press down firmly on the top of the puff indicator to spray 1 test-puff into the air. Repeat the priming steps for a total of 4 test-puffs. Shake your AIRSUPRA inhaler before each test-puff.
Shake before each test-puff. Repeat 4 times
Extra puffs are provided for priming. Do not skip priming.
 |
When and how to re-prime your AIRSUPRA inhaler
Re-prime your inhaler:
To re-prime your inhaler:
Take the cover off the mouthpiece and spray 2 test-puffs into the air. Shake your AIRSUPRA inhaler before each test-puff
 |
Shake before each test-puff. Repeat 2 times
Extra puffs are provided for priming. Do not skip priming.
How to use your inhaler - Inhaling your medicine
1. Check
Take the cover off the mouthpiece. Check the mouthpiece for foreign objects and remove objects before use.
 |
Check inside mouthpiece
2. Shake and Inhale
Shake well
 |
Breathe out fully
 |
Place the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece.
 |
Start to breathe in deeply and slowly while spraying 1 puff. Continue breathing in until you cannot anymore
 |
Remove the mouthpiece from your mouth. Hold your breath for as long as you can or up to 10 seconds.
 |
3. Repeat
Immediately repeat the shake and inhale step to take a second puff
 |
2 puffs equals 1 dose
4. Place the mouthpiece cover back on
Place the mouthpiece cover back on the mouthpiece
 |
5. Rinse
Rinse your mouth with water, if available (Do not swallow the water).
 |
Weekly rinse - Rinsing your actuator 1 time each week
1. Remove canister.
Remove the canister and set it aside. Take the cover off the mouthpiece
 |
2. Rinse through both ends
Rinse each end of the actuator with warm water for 30 seconds. Shake off as much water as you can. Do not use soap. Do not dry with a towel or tissue
 |
Look into the mouthpiece and actuator to make sure any medicine build-up has been completely washed away. If there is any build-up, repeat the weekly rinse step 2 again
 |
Check inside mouthpiece and actuator.
3. Air-dry
Let the actuator air-dry, such as overnight.
 |
4. Re-assemble and re-prime
Re-assemble AIRSUPRA when the actuator is fully dry.
First, place the mouthpiece cover back on. After the mouthpiece cover is on, gently press the canister down into actuator. Do not insert the canister while the mouthpiece cover is off.
Re-prime the inhaler by following the Re-prime steps above
 |
Emergency inhaler use when wet
If you need to use the inhaler before it is dry:
Storing your inhaler
Throwing away your AIRSUPRA inhaler
Throw away your AIRSUPRA inhaler in the household trash:
Do not reuse or use the actuator with medicine canisters from other inhalers.
Do not puncture or throw the canister into a fire or incinerator.
Ordering a new AIRSUPRA inhaler
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
AIRSUPRA®
(ayr soo' prah)
(albuterol and budesonide)
inhalation aerosol, for oral inhalation use
28-inhalation canister
Read this Instructions for Use before you start using AIRSUPRA and each time you get a new refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
Important information
Parts of your AIRSUPRA inhaler
 |
Reading the puff indicator
 |
Do not try to take a puff of medicine when the pointer is at 0 because you will not receive a full dose.
Before using your AIRSUPRA inhaler
1. Write the Use by date
Write the Use By Date (6 months after you open the foil pouch) on the actuator label using permanent ink.
 |
Write the Use By Date on the actuator label
2. Prime your AIRSUPRA inhaler before first use
Take the cover off the mouthpiece by squeezing both sides of the cover while pulling it down.
 |
Shake the inhaler well. Hold your AIRSUPRA inhaler facing away from you and press down firmly on the top of the puff indicator to spray 1 test-puff into the air. Repeat the priming steps for a total of 4 test-puffs. Shake your AIRSUPRA inhaler before each test-puff.
Shake before each test-puff. Repeat 4 times
 |
Extra puffs are provided for priming. Do not skip priming
When and how to re-prime your AIRSUPRA inhaler
Re-prime your inhaler:
To re-prime your inhaler:
Take the cover off the mouthpiece and spray 2 test-puffs into the air. Shake your AIRSUPRA inhaler before each test-puff
Shake before each test-puff. Repeat 2 times
 |
Extra puffs are provided for priming. Do not skip priming.
How to use your inhaler - Inhaling your medicine
1. Check
Take the cover off the mouthpiece. Check the mouthpiece for foreign objects and remove objects before use
Check inside mouthpiece.
 |
2. Shake and Inhale
Shake well
 |
Breathe out fully
 |
Place the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece
 |
Start to breathe in deeply and slowly while spraying 1 puff. Continue breathing in until you cannot anymore.
Remove the mouthpiece from your mouth. Hold your breath for as long as you can or up to 10 seconds.
 |
3. Repeat
Immediately repeat the shake and inhale step to take a second puff.
 |
2 puffs equals 1 dose.
4. Place the mouthpiece cover back on
Place the mouthpiece cover back on the mouthpiece
 |
5. Rinse
Rinse your mouth with water, if available (Do not swallow the water).
 |
Weekly rinse - Rinsing your actuator 1 time each week
1. Remove canister
Remove the canister and set it aside. Take the cover off the mouthpiece
 |
2. Rinse through both ends
Rinse each end of the actuator with warm water for 30 seconds. Shake off as much water as you can. Do not use soap. Do not dry with a towel or tissue
 |
Look into the mouthpiece and actuator to make sure any medicine build-up has been completely washed away. If there is any build-up, repeat the weekly rinse step 2 again
 |
Check inside mouthpiece and actuator
3. Air-dry
Let the actuator air-dry, such as overnight.
 |
4. Re-assemble and re-prime
Re-assemble AIRSUPRA when the actuator is fully dry.
First, place the mouthpiece cover back on. After the mouthpiece cover is on, gently press the canister down into actuator. Do not insert the canister while the mouthpiece cover is off.
Re-prime the inhaler by following the Re-prime steps above.
 |
Emergency inhaler use when wet
If you need to use the inhaler before it is dry:
Storing your inhaler
Throwing away your AIRSUPRA inhaler
Throw away your AIRSUPRA inhaler in the household trash:
Do not reuse or use the actuator with medicine canisters from other inhalers.
Do not puncture or throw the canister into a fire or incinerator.
Ordering a new AIRSUPRA inhaler
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
