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Trimbow 172/5/9 inhaler

from£89.99

A fixed triple therapy inhaler containing beclometasone 172mcg, formoterol 5mcg, and glycopyrronium 9mcg per delivered dose. Designed for adults with asthma or COPD not adequately controlled on ICS+LABA combinations, or for step-up from Trimbow 87/5/9 when a high-dose ICS effect is needed alongside the LABA and LAMA.

  • Fixed triple therapy pMDI (ICS + LABA + LAMA)
  • Extra-fine particle formulation
  • Pack size: 60 or 120 puffs per device
  • Prescription only

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Asthma

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Inhaler

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Trimbow 172/5/9 inhaler
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Description

Trimbow 172/5/9 pMDI — Product description

The problem with uncontrolled asthma and COPD

Firstly, asthma and COPD are often more than just breathlessness. Additionally, they mean waking up wheezing, cutting back on things you love, reaching for the blue inhaler too often, and living with the fear of another flare-up. Furthermore, when your usual preventer stops holding your symptoms back, everyday life becomes harder to plan. Above all, this affects sleep, work, exercise, and confidence.

The problem with dual-therapy inhalers alone

For many people, dual-therapy inhalers (ICS + LABA) are enough. However, some patients continue to have symptoms and flare-ups even on maintenance combinations like Seretide, Symbicort, or Fostair. Additionally, using more short-acting reliever inhaler does not fix the underlying problem. In fact, it usually signals that treatment needs stepping up. Furthermore, at this point, adding a third medicine — the LAMA (long-acting muscle-relaxer) — often makes a meaningful difference.

Why a single-inhaler triple therapy matters

Firstly, before Trimbow, patients on triple therapy had to use two or three separate inhalers. Additionally, this made adherence harder and technique more variable. Meanwhile, single-inhaler triple therapy puts all three medicines — ICS, LABA, and LAMA — into one device. As a result, patients get consistent triple therapy in one twice-daily routine. Above all, this simplifies daily life and improves the odds of good control.

Why the extra-fine particle formulation matters

Firstly, Trimbow uses an extra-fine particle formulation. Additionally, this delivers the medicine deeper into the small airways than standard inhalers. In fact, at around 1.5 micrometres average particle size, these particles reach parts of the lung where much of the disease process happens. As a result, less of the medicine lands in the mouth or throat, and more of it reaches where it needs to work.

Why Trimbow 172/5/9 rather than 87/5/9?

Firstly, Trimbow comes in two strengths — 87/5/9 (medium ICS) and 172/5/9 (high ICS). Furthermore, both contain the same formoterol and glycopyrronium doses. However, they differ in the beclometasone (steroid) content. As a result, 172/5/9 delivers a high-dose ICS effect alongside the LABA and LAMA. Additionally, this is the appropriate strength when medium-dose ICS has not delivered adequate control. Above all, this is a step-up option, not a starter.

A specialist-initiated route to better control

At Courier Pharmacy, treatment starts with a proper review. Firstly, the prescriber checks whether Trimbow 172/5/9 is clinically appropriate for you. Then, we confirm your inhaler technique. Furthermore, we make sure you understand the maintenance role of the medicine — daily use, even when you feel well.

  • Prescription-only fixed triple therapy inhaler for uncontrolled asthma and COPD
  • Three medicines in one device — ICS + LABA + LAMA
  • Extra-fine particle formulation for deeper airway delivery
  • Twice-daily dosing (morning and evening)
  • A UK-qualified prescriber reviews your suitability

Additional information

Quantity

1 inhaler, 2 inhalers, 3 inhalers

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Overview

Active ingredients

What is it for?

How does it work?

How do you use it?

Warnings and precautions

Side effects

Drug interactions

FAQs

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Written By
Shazlee Ahsan
BSc Pharmacy, Independent Prescriber, PgDip Endocrinology, MSc Endocrinology, PgDip Infectious Diseases

Superintendant Pharmacist, Independent Prescriber


Checked By
Safdar Ali
BSc Pharmacy

Pharmacist


What is Trimbow 172/5/9: overview

  • A single inhaler containing three separate medicines that work through three different mechanisms.
  • Designed for people who’ve already tried dual-therapy inhalers and need more.
  • Delivered through an extra-fine particle mist that reaches deep into the small airways.
  • Made by Chiesi, the same company behind Fostair.
  • Prescription only in the UK, and often started under specialist review.

 

Trimbow was developed to answer a specific problem in respiratory care. Before it existed, patients who needed all three medicine types (steroid, long-acting reliever, and long-acting muscle-relaxer) had to use two or three separate inhalers. Adherence suffered, technique varied between devices, and outcomes weren’t as good as they could have been. A single-device triple therapy sorted that. Trimbow was one of the first fixed triple therapy inhalers approved in Europe, and the extra-fine particle formulation was a genuine step forward.

The 172/5/9 strength is the higher of the two Trimbow options. Its sister product, Trimbow 87/5/9, contains roughly half the beclometasone dose but the same formoterol and glycopyrronium amounts. Your prescriber will choose between them based on how much steroid your control needs. If you’re already on a high-dose steroid plus LABA combination and still not stable, 172/5/9 is likely the more appropriate step.

Trimbow isn’t a rescue inhaler. It’s a preventer, which means it works quietly in the background to reduce airway swelling and keep the muscles around your airways relaxed. That preventer role means daily use matters, even on days when you feel fine. Skipping doses lets the underlying inflammation creep back and raises the risk of a flare-up.

You’ll see this inhaler described as a pMDI, which stands for pressurised metered-dose inhaler. That’s the standard press-and-breathe type. It uses HFA-134a as the propellant, which is a modern, ozone-friendly gas that replaced the older CFC propellants years ago. A spacer can help you get more of the medicine into your lungs, and your prescriber can advise which spacer suits Trimbow specifically.

Because Trimbow contains a long-acting muscle-relaxer (glycopyrronium), it needs a bit more care than a simple steroid inhaler. Narrow-angle glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, and certain heart rhythm problems all need mentioning during your consultation. None of these automatically rule Trimbow out. They just mean the prescriber wants a fuller picture before they say yes.

Why choose Courier Pharmacy for Trimbow 172/5/9

Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy, regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council. That’s the baseline. What sets us apart is how we approach the person behind the prescription. Respiratory disease isn’t the same for any two people. Your triggers, your history, your side-effect tolerance, your inhaler technique, and the way your symptoms fit into your daily life all matter. Our prescribers ask about those things, because getting Trimbow right isn’t just about the ingredients. It’s about the fit. [5]

Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori, who represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, community-rooted, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward: you’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that. That’s why we treat asthma and COPD as genuine clinical concerns, not tick-box conditions, and why we make time to talk through the practical questions that matter.

Dr Ada Jex Cori at courierpharmacy.co.uk holding a coupon

We also don’t disappear after we’ve dispensed. If your control shifts (better or worse), if a side effect appears, or if your prescriber has changed your plan, we’re on hand to help you make sense of it. For patients navigating complex conditions like MCAS, chronic fatigue, or fibromyalgia alongside their respiratory care, that continuity matters even more. Care that fits you means care that keeps showing up.

Buy Trimbow 172/5/9 (Prescription Only) from Courier Pharmacy

Trimbow 172/5/9 is a Prescription Only Medicine. You can request it through courierpharmacy.co.uk by completing an online consultation. A UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers, checks your history, and decides whether Trimbow 172/5/9 is clinically appropriate for you. If it is, we dispense the inhaler and deliver it discreetly.

  1. Complete a quick online consultation
  2. A UK prescriber reviews your answers
  3. If approved, a prescription is issued
  4. We dispense and deliver discreetly to your door

If it isn’t suitable for you, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option. That might mean a different Trimbow strength, a different combination, or a referral back to your respiratory team for a fuller review. Honesty over sales, every time.

Customer journey at courierpharmacy.co.uk

What are the active ingredients?

In particular, the three components in Trimbow do different jobs. Each one addresses a different part of the disease.

Beclometasone dipropionate 172mcg — the steroid (ICS)

Firstly, beclometasone dipropionate is an inhaled steroid. Furthermore, it treats the underlying swelling in your airways. In fact, asthma and COPD both involve ongoing airway swelling that makes the airways twitchy and narrow. As a result, the ICS treats the cause, not just the symptoms. Additionally, the effect builds over 1 to 2 weeks of steady use. However, the full benefit usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.

Notably, beclometasone is one of the most established inhaled steroids worldwide. In fact, it has been in clinical use since the 1970s. Furthermore, in Trimbow it is delivered in extra-fine particle form. As a result, less of it is needed to achieve the same effect as standard-particle beclometasone.

Formoterol fumarate 5mcg — the long-acting reliever (LABA)

Meanwhile, formoterol is a long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA). Firstly, it keeps the airways open for 12 hours by acting on beta-2 receptors. In contrast to salmeterol (used in Seretide), formoterol has a fast onset — noticeable within 1 to 3 minutes. As a result, patients often feel airway opening quickly after each dose. Furthermore, its effect still lasts a full 12 hours.

Glycopyrronium 9mcg — the muscle-relaxer (LAMA)

Additionally, glycopyrronium is a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA). Firstly, it blocks acetylcholine — a chemical that causes airway muscles to tighten. As a result, blocking this signal keeps the airways relaxed. It also decrease the production of mucus. Furthermore, this is a different mechanism from formoterol. In short, the two work together rather than duplicating each other.

Other ingredients

Furthermore, Trimbow also contains:

  • Ethanol anhydrous — 8.856 mg per actuation
  • Hydrochloric acid — for pH adjustment
  • Norflurane (HFA-134a) — the propellant
Dr Ada Jex Cori measuring active pharmaceutical ingredients on a weighing scale courierpharmacy.co.uk

What is Trimbow 172/5/9 used for?

Maintenance treatment of asthma

Firstly, Trimbow 172/5/9 is licensed for the maintenance treatment of asthma in adults. In particular, it is for adults not adequately controlled with a maintenance combination of a LABA and high-dose ICS. Furthermore, these adults must have experienced one or more asthma flare-ups in the previous year.

Additionally, Trimbow 172/5/9 sits at Step 4 to 5 of the asthma treatment ladder. In fact, it is a step-up option after ICS+LABA dual therapy has not delivered adequate control. Above all, in the UK it is often "grey list" — meaning specialist initiation is recommended before it continues in primary care.

Maintenance treatment of COPD

Meanwhile, Trimbow is also licensed for the maintenance treatment of moderate-to-severe COPD in adults. In particular, it suits patients not adequately treated by a combination of ICS+LABA or LABA+LAMA. Furthermore, COPD patients with frequent flare-ups on dual therapy may also benefit.

Why triple therapy works better than dual therapy for some patients

In short, triple therapy addresses three different pathways at once:

  • Anti-inflammatory action (from the ICS)
  • Beta-2 airway relaxation (from the LABA)
  • Muscarinic airway relaxation (from the LAMA)

Furthermore, studies show that adding a LAMA to ICS+LABA can improve lung function further, reduce flare-up rates, reduce reliever use, and improve quality of life. As a result, this is why triple therapy exists — for patients who remain uncontrolled on dual therapy.

The extra-fine particle advantage

Additionally, Trimbow uses an extra-fine particle formulation. In fact, the average particle size is around 1.5 micrometres — much smaller than standard inhalers. As a result, the medicine reaches deeper into the small airways, where much of the disease process happens.

Who uses Trimbow 172/5/9

Firstly, Trimbow 172/5/9 suits several specific patient groups.

Asthma patients:

  • Adults with ongoing asthma not well controlled on a LABA plus high-dose ICS combination
  • Adults who have had one or more asthma flare-ups in the previous year despite ICS+LABA treatment
  • Patients stepping up from Trimbow 87/5/9 (the lower strength) when the medium ICS dose is not enough
  • Adults with severe asthma with proven airflow obstruction (following specialist initiation)

COPD patients:

  • Adults with moderate-to-severe COPD not adequately treated by ICS+LABA or LABA+LAMA
  • COPD patients with frequent flare-ups on dual therapy
  • Patients who need all three mechanisms in one device rather than juggling multiple inhalers

How Trimbow 172/5/9 compares to other preventer options

Furthermore, understanding how Trimbow sits alongside other options helps:

  • Vs Trimbow 87/5/9 — half the beclometasone dose. Suits patients needing medium-dose ICS rather than high-dose
  • Vs ICS+LABA combinations (Seretide, Symbicort, Fostair) — Trimbow adds the LAMA as a third component
  • Vs adding a separate LAMA inhaler (Spiriva) — Trimbow puts all three in one device rather than two separate inhalers
  • Vs Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone furoate + umeclidinium + vilanterol) — similar triple therapy concept, different molecules, once-daily dry powder inhaler rather than twice-daily pMDI
  • Vs biologic therapies (omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab) — for severe specific asthma phenotypes. Specialist use only.

Dr Ada Jex Cori coughing courierpharmacy.co.uk

How does Trimbow 172/5/9 work?

The three ingredients in Trimbow 172/5/9 do different jobs. Beclometasone binds to steroid receptors inside airway cells and switches off the genes that produce inflammatory chemicals. That reduces airway swelling and makes the airways less twitchy over 1 to 2 weeks of steady use. Think of it as turning down the alarm system in your airways, so they stop reacting so strongly to triggers.

Formoterol activates beta-2 receptors on the smooth muscle around your airways. That signal tells the muscle to relax, and the airways open up. Formoterol is unusual among long-acting relievers because it works quickly (within 1 to 3 minutes) and keeps working for 12 hours. So it's fast enough for you to notice, and lasting enough for twice-daily dosing to be enough.

Glycopyrronium blocks muscarinic receptors on the same airway muscle. These receptors are triggered by a chemical called acetylcholine, which tells the muscle to tighten. By blocking that signal, glycopyrronium removes a second tightening pathway that formoterol can't reach on its own. It also helps to reduce mucus production. This is why some people who feel like they've maxed out on dual therapy notice further improvement on triple therapy.

The extra-fine particle formulation matters here too. In both asthma and COPD, a lot of the disease process happens in the small airways deep in the lungs. Standard-particle inhalers deposit most of their medicine higher up. Trimbow's smaller particles reach further, so more of each dose lands where the inflammation actually is.

You'll feel the bronchodilator effect from formoterol and glycopyrronium within hours. The full benefit of the beclometasone takes 1 to 2 weeks to build, and the combined benefit of triple therapy usually shows within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent daily use. That's why sticking with the twice-daily routine, even when you feel well, matters so much.

Dr Ada Jex Cori thinking courierpharmacy.co.uk

How to use Trimbow 172/5/9

Standard dosing

Firstly, the recommended dose is 2 inhalations twice daily. Additionally, this means one dose in the morning and one dose in the evening. Furthermore, the maximum dose is also 2 inhalations twice daily — do not exceed this. Above all, take Trimbow every day even when you feel well.

The pMDI technique

Because Trimbow is a pMDI (press-and-breathe inhaler):

  1. Firstly, remove the mouthpiece cap
  2. Then, check the dose counter shows doses remaining
  3. Additionally, shake the inhaler well before each use
  4. Next, breathe out fully (away from the inhaler)
  5. Then, place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it
  6. Furthermore, start breathing in slowly and press the top of the canister at the same time
  7. Additionally, continue breathing in slowly and deeply
  8. Then, hold your breath for 10 seconds if possible
  9. Finally, breathe out slowly and repeat for the second puff
  10. Above all, rinse your mouth and spit afterwards

Using a spacer

Additionally, a spacer can improve delivery to the lungs. Firstly, this is especially useful if your press-and-breathe technique is not perfect. Furthermore, spacers reduce the amount of medicine landing in your mouth or throat. As a result, this reduces side effects and improves the amount reaching your lungs. Above all, ask your prescriber about which spacer is suitable.

Mouth care after use

Firstly, rinse your mouth and spit after each use. Alternatively, brush your teeth. Furthermore, this reduces the risk of oral thrush, hoarse voice, and sore throat — all common side effects of inhaled steroids. Additionally, sipping water can help with the dry mouth that glycopyrronium sometimes causes.

What to do if you miss a dose

Firstly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Above all, do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

If you need quick relief between doses

Additionally, if you have symptoms between doses, use your short-acting reliever inhaler (usually salbutamol). Above all, do not take extra Trimbow doses for quick relief. Furthermore, if you find you need your reliever more than 3 times a week, contact your prescriber for a review.

Storage

  • Store below 50°C
  • Do not pierce or burn the canister, even when empty
  • Do not expose to temperatures above 50°C
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date

Dr Ada Jex Cori from courierpharmacy.co.uk using an inhaler

Warnings and precautions

Firstly, do not use Trimbow if you are allergic to beclometasone, formoterol, glycopyrronium, or any of the other ingredients. Furthermore, Trimbow is not licensed for children and adolescents under 18. Additionally, it is not for use as a rescue inhaler during an asthma attack.

Use with care if you have any of the following

Additionally, tell your prescriber before starting Trimbow if you have:

  • Heart disease, angina, or a history of heart attack
  • An irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
  • High blood pressure
  • Narrowing of the arteries
  • Diabetes (formoterol can raise blood sugar)
  • Thyroid problems
  • Low potassium levels
  • Liver or kidney problems
  • Narrow-angle glaucoma
  • Urinary retention or an enlarged prostate
  • Tuberculosis or another lung infection
  • Any current or previous cardiovascular condition

Cardiovascular considerations

Firstly, formoterol can cause increases in heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, it can rarely cause palpitations or chest discomfort. Furthermore, patients with existing heart conditions need careful assessment before starting Trimbow. Above all, contact your prescriber if you notice changes in your heart rhythm or chest symptoms after starting.

Eye considerations

Meanwhile, glycopyrronium (the LAMA component) needs care in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Furthermore, if you have any eye pain, blurred vision, or coloured halos around lights, contact your prescriber immediately. As a result, mention any glaucoma or eye pressure history during consultation.

Urinary considerations

Additionally, glycopyrronium can also worsen urinary retention. Firstly, this matters especially for older men with an enlarged prostate. Furthermore, tell your prescriber if you have difficulty passing urine before starting Trimbow.

Paradoxical bronchospasm

Rarely, inhalers can cause paradoxical bronchospasm — meaning the airways tighten immediately after using the inhaler instead of opening. Firstly, if this happens, stop using Trimbow immediately. Then, use your reliever inhaler. Above all, contact your prescriber urgently for a review.

Adrenal suppression

Furthermore, inhaled steroids can rarely affect the body's natural steroid production. Additionally, this is more likely at higher doses used for a long time. Above all, tell any healthcare professional treating you that you are taking Trimbow — especially before surgery.

Ethanol content

Notably, Trimbow contains 8.856 mg of ethanol per puff. In fact, this is a small amount and is not usually clinically important. However, disclose any concerns during consultation.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Firstly, tell your prescriber if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Furthermore, animal studies have shown effects on pregnancy at high doses. As a result, use during pregnancy needs careful benefit-risk assessment. Additionally, it is not known if Trimbow passes into breast milk.

Driving and operating machinery

Above all, Trimbow has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or use machines.

Dr Ada Jex Cori holding a warning sign courierpharmacy.co.uk

Side effects

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people)

  • Sore throat
  • Hoarse voice
  • Cough
  • Dry mouth
  • Oral thrush
  • Muscle cramps or spasms
  • Headache
  • Urinary tract infection

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Sinus problems
  • Itching, runny or blocked nose
  • Fungal infection (in the mouth, throat, or elsewhere)
  • Restlessness, tremor, or dizziness
  • Altered taste
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
  • Redness or flushing of the face
  • Blood in urine
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Diarrhoea, dry throat, upset stomach, or nausea
  • Rash, hives, or itching
  • Tiredness
  • Increased blood pressure
  • Blood test changes (increased eosinophils, potassium, blood sugar, or C-reactive protein; decreased cortisol)

Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people)

  • Feeling of the heart missing beats
  • Sudden difficulty breathing after using the inhaler (paradoxical bronchospasm)
  • Rise in blood pressure
  • Chest pain
  • Pneumonia (in COPD patients)
  • Reduced appetite
  • Sleep problems
  • Swelling of the hands or feet

Very rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people)

  • Reduced number of blood platelets
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat (allergic reaction)
  • Effect on adrenal gland function
  • Blurred vision
  • Slowing of growth in children and adolescents
  • Thinning of bones

When to seek urgent medical help

Firstly, seek urgent help if you experience:

  • Sudden worsening breathlessness after using the inhaler
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction — swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash
  • Severe chest pain or an irregular heartbeat
  • Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, or coloured halos around lights (possible acute glaucoma)
  • Any other symptom that concerns you

Yellow Card reporting

You can report any suspected side effects directly via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Courierpharmacy.co.uk divider Dr Ada Jex Cori

Drug interactions

Why interactions matter

Firstly, Trimbow contains three active ingredients. As a result, its interaction profile is broader than a single-ingredient inhaler. Furthermore, always tell your prescriber about all medicines you take — including over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies, and supplements.

Medicines that increase the risk of side effects

Additionally, avoid or use with care alongside:

  • Beta-blockers (including eye drops for glaucoma) — can reduce or block the effect of formoterol
  • Other beta-2 agonists (long-acting or short-acting) — extra doses can lead to side effects
  • Diuretics (water tablets), especially loop or thiazide types — can lower potassium
  • Digoxin — combined risk of low potassium and arrhythmia
  • Other steroids (oral, injected, or inhaled) — combined risk of systemic steroid effects
  • Xanthine derivatives (theophylline, aminophylline) — combined risk of low potassium and arrhythmia
  • Other anticholinergic medicines (including ipratropium) — combined LAMA effects should be avoided

Medicines that raise Trimbow levels

Furthermore, some medicines can increase blood levels of the ingredients in Trimbow:

  • Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors — ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, cobicistat, clarithromycin, telithromycin
  • These interactions can increase the systemic exposure to beclometasone
  • Above all, tell your prescriber if you are taking any of these

Medicines affecting heart rhythm (QT interval)

Additionally, Trimbow can rarely affect the heart's electrical rhythm. Furthermore, this risk increases if combined with:

  • Quinidine, disopyramide, procainamide (antiarrhythmics)
  • Antihistamines (some types)
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Phenothiazines

Halogenated anaesthetics

Meanwhile, tell your prescriber if you are due surgery. Additionally, some anaesthetics (halogenated ones) can interact with the LABA component. As a result, Trimbow may need to be stopped or adjusted before surgery.

Diabetes medicines

Firstly, formoterol can raise blood sugar. Additionally, if you have diabetes, your blood sugar may need closer monitoring after starting Trimbow. Furthermore, doses of diabetes medicines may need adjustment.

Courierpharmacy.co.uk divider Dr Ada Jex Cori

Frequently asked questions

Dr Ada Jex Cori at courierpharmacy.co.uk FAQs

How long does it take Trimbow to start working?

Firstly, the formoterol part starts opening your airways within 1 to 3 minutes. Additionally, the glycopyrronium part builds over the first day. However, the full anti-inflammatory benefit of the beclometasone takes 1 to 2 weeks to build. Above all, the full benefit of triple therapy usually shows within 4 to 6 weeks of steady use.

Can I use Trimbow as a rescue inhaler?

No. Firstly, Trimbow is a maintenance inhaler taken twice daily every day. Furthermore, it is not for immediate relief during an asthma attack or worsening symptoms. As a result, always keep a short-acting reliever inhaler (like salbutamol) with you for quick relief. However, if you find you need your reliever more than 3 times a week, contact your prescriber.

Why do I need to rinse my mouth after using Trimbow?

Firstly, rinsing your mouth reduces the risk of oral thrush, hoarse voice, and sore throat. Additionally, these are common side effects of inhaled steroids. Furthermore, rinsing washes away any medicine that landed in your mouth instead of reaching your lungs. Above all, rinse and spit — do not swallow.

Should I use a spacer with Trimbow?

Firstly, a spacer can improve delivery to the lungs and reduce mouth or throat side effects. Additionally, this is especially useful if your press-and-breathe technique is not perfect. However, ask your prescriber about which spacer is suitable — Trimbow is a solution rather than a suspension, and not all spacers suit all pMDIs.

Can I stop using Trimbow if I feel well?

No. Firstly, Trimbow is a daily preventer — it works because you take it every day, even when you feel well. Additionally, stopping it can lead to your symptoms and flare-ups returning. Above all, do not stop or change treatment without advice from your prescriber.

Why is Trimbow 172/5/9 sometimes called "specialist-initiated"?

Firstly, Trimbow 172/5/9 is often on "grey list" in NHS formularies. Furthermore, this means it is usually started by a specialist rather than a GP. Additionally, this reflects its position as a step-up option after other combinations have not worked well enough. As a result, most patients start Trimbow after a respiratory specialist review.

What is the difference between Trimbow 172/5/9 and Trimbow 87/5/9?

Firstly, both are triple therapy inhalers with formoterol 5mcg and glycopyrronium 9mcg per dose. However, they differ in beclometasone strength — Trimbow 172/5/9 delivers a high ICS dose, while Trimbow 87/5/9 delivers a medium ICS dose. Additionally, Trimbow 87/5/9 is typically used when medium-dose ICS is enough. Above all, your prescriber decides which strength suits your control best.

How does Trimbow compare to Trelegy Ellipta?

Firstly, both are triple therapy inhalers containing ICS + LABA + LAMA. However, they differ in several ways. Additionally, Trelegy is a once-daily dry powder inhaler, while Trimbow is a twice-daily pMDI. Furthermore, Trimbow uses extra-fine particle formulation, while Trelegy uses larger particles. Above all, the choice depends on your device preference, dosing preference, and clinical response.

Can I use Trimbow if I have both asthma and COPD?

Yes. Firstly, Trimbow is licensed for both asthma (in adults) and COPD. Additionally, this makes it useful for patients with asthma-COPD overlap. Furthermore, your prescriber will assess whether Trimbow suits your combined picture. Above all, disclose any COPD or asthma diagnosis during consultation.

Will Trimbow affect my heart?

Firstly, formoterol can slightly increase heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, palpitations are an uncommon side effect. However, most patients tolerate Trimbow well from a cardiac perspective. Above all, if you have existing heart conditions, tell your prescriber before starting. Furthermore, contact your prescriber urgently if you notice new chest pain, marked palpitations, or an irregular heartbeat.

Can Trimbow make me hoarse?

Yes. Firstly, a hoarse voice is a common side effect of inhaled steroids. Additionally, it usually settles as your voice adjusts. Furthermore, rinsing your mouth after each use reduces the risk. Above all, if hoarseness persists, tell your prescriber — sometimes technique adjustment or a spacer helps.

Can I use Trimbow if I have glaucoma?

Firstly, glycopyrronium (the LAMA component) needs care in narrow-angle glaucoma. Additionally, tell your prescriber if you have any type of glaucoma before starting. Furthermore, contact your prescriber immediately if you develop eye pain, blurred vision, or coloured halos around lights while on Trimbow.

Can I use Trimbow if I have prostate problems?

Firstly, glycopyrronium can worsen urinary retention. Additionally, this matters especially for older men with an enlarged prostate. Furthermore, tell your prescriber if you have difficulty passing urine before starting. Above all, contact your prescriber if urinary symptoms worsen after starting Trimbow.

Will I need a prescription?

Yes. Firstly, Trimbow is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM). Furthermore, a UK-qualified prescriber must review suitability before supply. Additionally, most patients receive it after specialist initiation. Above all, the consultation can be completed online at courierpharmacy.co.uk.

How does Courier Pharmacy supply Trimbow 172/5/9?

Firstly, a UK pharmacist prescriber reviews every Trimbow supply. Additionally, we will ask about your asthma or COPD control, your previous inhaler history, and whether specialist initiation has occurred. Then, we will confirm the pMDI technique that makes the medicine work. Above all, we treat Trimbow 172/5/9 as the step-up option it is — not standard first-line therapy.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Above all, always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

References

  1. Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc) (2024) Trimbow pMDI 172 micrograms/5 micrograms/9 micrograms pressurised inhalation, solution — Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/13816/smpc
  2. NHS (2023) Asthma. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/
  3. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2023) Asthma. NICE guideline NG245. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245
Courierpharmacy.co.uk divider Dr Ada Jex Cori

Download patient leaflet

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.13816.pdf

Trimbow 172_5_9 inhaler courierpharmacy.co.uk
Trimbow 172/5/9 inhaler
from£89.99

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