Advair and Symbicort Causing Back Pain?

[LAC936]

Last week I was diagnosed with Asthma (through a breathing test) after two bouts with Bronchitis and lots of coughing.    My doctor gave me Advair.  After 3 doses I began getting back pain between my shoulder blades.  Not sure if it was from the Advair I took another dose and the pain got worse.  I contacted my doctor and he changed me to Symbicort.  I had no problem for 3 days, but after today's dose the back pain is back.  Is this typical or am I doing something wrong when inhaling.  I believe I'm following the instructions, including rinsing my mouth after using.  Is there a pill I can take instead?

[evewisewoman]

Hello LAC936,
I have asthma and I have had asthma for more than 10 years atleast.
My doctor has prescribed Pulmicort which I take 2 times a day. You have
to rinse your mouth after you take Pulmicort. I also take something called
Bricanol which is also an inhaler which my doctor told me to use as needed.
I've seen commercials for Advair. The commercials state that not everybody
is a candidate for Advair. One idea is to google - possible side effects of
Advair.  Possible side effects of Symbicort. See if one of the side effects
of either Advair or Symbicort is pain between the shoulder blades.
Based on what you find out, I would have a conversation with your doctor.
Only a suggestion. I'm sure there are other asthma medications besides
Advair and Symbicort which may be a better match for you. Good luck.

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hello and hope you are doing well.

It may not be related the back pain and the inhalers. Inhalers are usually locally acting and do not cause systemic effects. The constant coughing could cause muscle strain and back pain. Sometimes the pleura, the lining of the chest cavity and lungs can get inflamed causing pain with coughing. The pain can also be due to orthopedic related causes like cervical rib, cervical spondylosis or disc prolapse. So, don't worry and discuss these options with your doctor. In the meantime continue with your inhalers and take OTC naproxen for relief from pain.

Hope this helped and do keep us posted.