Is Spiriva, Symbicort, Advair Or Anoro Best For COPD?
Which is least expensive?
Symbicort may be least expensive.
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX,
These are various inhalers used in the management of copd. Symbicort and Advair belong to the same group with different drugs having more or less similar kind of effect. They can be used in lieu of each other. Anoro also belongs to this category but is rather newer with slightly improved effects
Spiriva is another class with different mode of action and should be combined with either one of the above for enhanced effects.
You may have to check the exact cost of these with your pharmacist. Advair may be little more expensive because of different drug delivery mechanism and similarly anoro may cost more than others as it is a rather new preparation. Symbicort may be least expensive among the first three mentioned by me. Spiriva also may not be so expensive as it contains a single drug but then it should be preferrably combined with one of the other three mentioned above.
These drugs have multiple mode of functions.
Detailed Answer:
These drugs have multiple mode of functions. Dilatation of airways is one of them . Other important one is anti inflammatory which is achieved by release of various substances in the airways. These agents also help in drying up excessive secretions in the airways during an attack.