Symbicort

Symbicort® (budesonide/formoterol) inhaler is a prescription medication used for the long-term control of asthma. It combines two types of medicines in one inhaler: an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) to reduce inflammation and a long-acting bronchodilator (LABA) to help keep airways open. It’s designed to help prevent symptoms over time, not to treat sudden asthma attacks.

• Used for maintenance treatment of asthma in patients aged 6+
• Combines anti-inflammatory and airway-opening effects
• Helps reduce the frequency of asthma symptoms
• Taken regularly as part of a daily treatment plan
• Not intended for sudden breathing emergencies

Symbicort® inhaler is used by breathing the medication into your lungs on a regular schedule, as directed by your healthcare provider. It is typically taken every day, even if you feel well, to maintain asthma control over time.

• Inhale through the mouth using the inhaler device
• Use consistently as prescribed (not just when symptoms appear)
• Rinse your mouth after each use to reduce irritation risk
• Prime the inhaler before first use or if not used for several days
• Do not exceed the prescribed number of inhalations

Symbicort® inhaler may cause side effects, and these can vary depending on how your body responds. Some are related to its effects on the airways, while others may require medical attention.

• Common effects include throat irritation, headache, or upper respiratory symptoms
• You may notice a hoarse voice or mild discomfort in the mouth
• Oral fungal infection (thrush) can occur if the mouth is not rinsed
• Some people experience stomach discomfort or flu-like symptoms

** Seek medical help right away if you notice:**

• Worsening breathing or symptoms not improving
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling, rash, or trouble breathing

If side effects feel severe or unusual, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

For more detail refer to the Important Safety / Prescribing Information.

Yes, but you’ll need a licensed healthcare provider to review your information first. Telemedicine platforms make access easier, but they still require a proper medical evaluation. A prescription is only issued if the treatment is appropriate for your condition.

• Complete an online health questionnaire
• A provider reviews your symptoms and history
• Prescription is issued if suitable
• Medication is dispensed through a licensed pharmacy

If your situation requires further evaluation, your provider may recommend a different option.

Yes, Symbicort® is the brand name, and budesonide/formoterol is the combination of active ingredients. Both refer to the same type of medication used for long-term asthma control.

• Symbicort® = brand name
• Budesonide/formoterol = active ingredients
• Both are used for maintenance asthma treatment
• Available depending on prescription and pharmacy

Your provider will prescribe what best fits your treatment plan.

No, Symbicort® is not a rescue inhaler. It is designed for regular use to help control asthma over time, not for immediate relief.

• Not for sudden asthma attacks
• Does not replace a rescue inhaler
• Used as part of long-term management

If you have sudden breathing symptoms, follow your provider’s guidance for quick-relief treatment.

Yes, Symbicort® is typically used every day as prescribed. Consistent use helps maintain control of asthma symptoms and reduce flare-ups.

• Taken on a regular schedule
• Helps prevent symptoms over time
• Important to continue even when you feel well

If you stop using it or skip doses, your symptoms may become less controlled. Always follow your provider’s instructions.

Symbicort® is not meant for sudden symptom relief. If you experience a flare-up, you should use your rescue inhaler if prescribed.

• Use a rescue inhaler for immediate symptoms
• Follow your asthma action plan
• Seek medical help if symptoms persist

If you’re unsure how to respond, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

If your symptoms are not improving, it may mean your treatment needs adjustment. Do not increase your dose without medical advice.

• Continue using as prescribed
• Monitor changes in your symptoms
• Avoid making changes on your own

Contact your provider for evaluation.

In many cases, Symbicort® is used alongside other asthma medications, but this should be guided by your provider.

• Inform your provider about all medications
• Avoid combining with similar long-acting inhalers unless directed
• Follow your prescribed treatment plan

Do not adjust or combine medications without medical advice.

Yes, rinsing your mouth after each use is recommended. This helps reduce the risk of irritation and oral infections.

• Rinse with water after each use
• Do not swallow the rinse water
• Helps reduce risk of oral fungal infection

Making this a routine habit can help minimize side effects.

The prescribing information does not specifically restrict alcohol, but individual responses may vary.

• Alcohol may increase certain side effects like dizziness
• Effects differ between individuals
• Monitor how your body responds

Most people can continue normal activities after using Symbicort®. However, some may experience side effects that affect concentration.

• Watch for dizziness or discomfort
• Avoid driving if you feel unwell
• Wait until you feel stable

If you notice unusual symptoms, give yourself time before driving.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose.

• Do not double doses
• Return to your normal schedule
• Follow your provider’s instructions

Proper storage helps ensure your inhaler works correctly when needed.

• Keep the inhaler clean and dry
• Store according to label instructions
• Avoid extreme temperatures
• Keep out of reach of children

It’s best to request a refill before your inhaler runs out to avoid interruptions in your treatment.

• Monitor your remaining doses
• Refill before reaching zero
• Follow your provider’s refill process

Symbicort® (Budesonide/Formoterol 80/4.5 mcg and 160/4.5) - combination inhaler (ICS + LABA) used for asthma maintenance treatment in patients 6 years and older; not for acute bronchospasm. / Source: NCBI Link: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=fafa4cf1-99c2-43d5-73ad-51f256de3be0 / Published: Not clearly shown on DailyMed.