What is Trimbow?
Trimbow is a triple inhaler that combines three active ingredients in one device: the inhaled corticosteroid beclometasone, the long-acting beta-2 agonist formoterol, and the long-acting anticholinergic glycopyrronium (LAMA).
This triple therapy (ICS/LABA/LAMA) is used in patients who are not adequately controlled with dual therapy (ICS/LABA). Trimbow is approved for the treatment of moderate to severe asthma and COPD.
The extrafine formulation ensures distribution, even in the small airways. Trimbow is available as a metered-dose inhaler and as a Nexthaler (dry powder inhaler).
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Beclometasondipropionat, Formoterol, Glycopyrroniumbromid
Trimbow combines three mechanisms of action:
Beclometasone (ICS):
- Anti-inflammatory effect
- Reduces swelling and mucus production
- Lowers bronchial hyperreactivity
Formoterol (LABA):
- Rapid bronchodilation (1-3 minutes)
- Duration of action 12 hours
- Relaxes the bronchial muscles
Glycopyrronium (LAMA):
- Blocks muscarinic receptors
- Additional bronchodilation
- Duration of action up to 24 hours
- Reduces mucus secretion
Triple action: The three mechanisms complement each other: anti-inflammatory action + dual bronchodilation via different pathways.
Who is it suitable for?
Trimbow is suitable for:
- Adults with severe asthma (when ICS/LABA is not enough)
- COPD patients with frequent exacerbations
- As a step-up from dual therapy
When to use triple therapy?
- Frequent exacerbations despite ICS/LABA
- Inadequate asthma control on maximum therapy
- COPD GOLD C/D
Not suitable:
- For mild to moderate asthma (overtreatment)
- As first-line therapy
- For children and adolescents under 18 years of age
Available Dosages
Trimbow metered-dose inhaler (extrafine):
- 87/5/9 µg (beclometasone/formoterol/glycopyrronium) per puff
Trimbow Nexthaler:
- 88/5/9 µg per single dose
Dosage:
- 2 puffs 2x daily
- Maximum: 4 puffs per day
Note: The extrafine formulation allows lower beclometasone doses with the same efficacy.
Dosage form and pack sizes
The medicines catalogue lists 2 pack variants: 2 strengths in one pack size.
- Dosage form
- Dosieraerosol
- Strengths
- 87/5/9 µg, 172/5/9 µg
- Pack sizes
- 120 Hübe
| Strength | Pack | PZN | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87/5/9 µg | 120 Hübe | 12777343 | 30 days |
| 172/5/9 µg | 120 Hübe | 16868025 | 30 days |
Packs listed in the German medicines catalogue. Which of them are currently available and what they cost is shown in the price overview.
The Pharmazentralnummer (PZN) is the nationwide unique identifier of a pack in Germany.
Duration is the catalogue value for the usual dosage. How long a pack actually lasts depends on the dose your doctor prescribes.
How to Take
Metered-dose inhaler: 1. Remove the protective cap, shake 2. Breathe out deeply 3. Close your lips around the mouthpiece 4. Breathe in slowly and deeply while releasing a puff 5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds 6. Take the second puff the same way 7. Rinse your mouth and spit out
Nexthaler: 1. Open the protective cap 2. Breathe out deeply (not into the inhaler) 3. Close your lips around the mouthpiece 4. Breathe in quickly and deeply 5. Hold your breath 6. Rinse your mouth
Important:
- 2x daily, morning and evening
- Use regularly
- Rinse your mouth
Contraindications
Do not use in case of:
- Hypersensitivity to the active ingredients
Use with caution in case of:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Prostatic hyperplasia
- Severe cardiovascular diseases
- QT prolongation
- Hyperthyroidism
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypokalemia
Pregnancy: Only if clearly indicated.
Breastfeeding: Weigh benefits against risks.
Possible Side Effects
Common (1-10%):
- Pneumonia in COPD patients
- Oral thrush
- Hoarseness
- Headache
- Urinary tract infections
Uncommon:
- Dry mouth
- Tremor
- Palpitations
- Muscle cramps
- Blurred vision
- Urinary retention
Rare:
- Systemic corticosteroid effects
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Paradoxical bronchospasm
Prevention: Rinse your mouth after inhalation.
Interactions
Interactions:
- CYP3A4 inhibitors – low risk (beclometasone more favorable than fluticasone)
- Beta blockers – can cancel out the effect of formoterol
- Other anticholinergics – additive effect
- QT-prolonging medications
- Potassium-lowering medications
Not recommended:
- Other LABAs or LAMAs at the same time
Frequently Asked Questions
If two active ingredients (ICS + LABA) are not enough, the additional anticholinergic provides further bronchodilation via a different mechanism. This can improve control and reduce exacerbations.
Trimbow can replace separate ICS/LABA and LAMA inhalers with a single device. Talk to your doctor about switching. A rescue inhaler (salbutamol) is still needed.
The side effects of triple therapy are comparable to those of dual therapy. In addition, typical anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth may occur.
Similar Medications
Is Trimbow right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.





