Budesonide formoterol is a combination inhaler used to control asthma and some cases of COPD. One drug (budesonide) reduces airway inflammation, the other (formoterol) relaxes airway muscles so you can breathe easier. Many people use this combo as a daily controller and, depending on the product, sometimes as a reliever during flare-ups.
If your doctor prescribed a budesonide-formoterol inhaler, they want to treat inflammation and give quick relief at the same time. Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid that calms the swelling in the airways. Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator that usually starts working within minutes — faster than many other long-acting options. That fast onset makes this combo handy for people who need both steady control and quick symptom relief.
Doctors commonly recommend budesonide-formoterol for adults and adolescents with moderate asthma, and for some patients with COPD who still have frequent symptoms. Brand names vary by country — Symbicort is one familiar example — but the active parts are the same: budesonide + formoterol.
Use the inhaler exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. If it’s prescribed as both maintenance and reliever, follow the written plan from your clinician — this strategy can reduce flare-ups for many people. Always prime a new inhaler per the instructions and check the dose counter if it has one.
Rinse your mouth with water and spit after using the inhaler to lower the risk of oral thrush (a common local side effect). If you struggle with coordination, ask about a spacer — it makes sure more medicine reaches your lungs and less lands in your mouth.
Store the inhaler away from direct heat and sunlight, and keep the cap on when not in use. Don’t shake dry powder inhalers; follow the specific device instructions. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose — don’t double up.
Common side effects include mild tremor, headache, throat irritation, or a fast heartbeat. If you notice severe chest pain, a racing heart that doesn’t stop, worsening breathlessness, or signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, severe dizziness), seek medical help right away. Also tell your doctor if you get frequent oral thrush or hoarseness — small changes can reduce these issues.
Before starting, mention other medicines you use, especially other steroids or heart medicines, and any history of heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, or osteoporosis. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your prescriber — for many, the benefit of keeping asthma controlled outweighs risks, but individual advice matters.
If you have questions about your inhaler technique, dose plan, or side effects, ask a pharmacist or your doctor. Small changes in how you use the device often make a big difference in symptom control. Keep a written action plan for flare-ups so you know when to step up treatment or call for help.
Jul, 28 2025
Discover which Symbicort generics are FDA-approved in 2025, how to access them, and what sets each option apart for asthma and COPD management.