Budesonide + Formoterol (Symbicort)
$1.00
Symbicort is a combination inhaler with Budesonide and Formoterol used to control asthma and COPD and reduce flare-ups.
Drug Information
1 review for Budesonide + Formoterol (Symbicort)
Symbicort is a combination inhaler with two medicines: budesonide and formoterol. It controls asthma and COPD by reducing airway inflammation and keeping the airways open.
For some people with asthma, doctors use it as both the daily preventer and the reliever (called MART). Your doctor will tell you which plan to follow.
What is it used for?
- Asthma
- COPD
How does it work?
Budesonide is a steroid that calms inflammation in the airways. Formoterol is a bronchodilator that works within minutes and lasts about 12 hours, relaxing the muscles around the airways.
This information is written in simple words to help you understand this product. It does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.
Read these points before you start. If any of them apply to you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first.
- Learn how to use your inhaler correctly. Ask your pharmacist or nurse to check your technique. Using a spacer can help with some inhalers.
- Tell your doctor if your asthma or COPD is getting worse, for example if you need your reliever more often than usual.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, an overactive thyroid, or low potassium.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use, to help prevent thrush and a hoarse voice.
- Do not stop using it suddenly.
- People with COPD have a slightly higher risk of pneumonia.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every other medicine, vitamin or herbal product you use.
- Keep this product out of the reach and sight of children.
Like all medicines, Symbicort can cause side effects, but not everybody gets them.
Common side effects
- Thrush in the mouth or throat
- Hoarse voice
- Headache
- Shaking or a fast heartbeat
These are usually mild and often get better as your body gets used to it. Tell your doctor if they bother you or do not go away.
Stop using it and get medical help straight away if you notice:
- Breathing that suddenly gets worse straight after using the inhaler (wheezing, tight chest). Use your reliever and get medical help.
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or lips, a rash, or trouble breathing
- Chest pain or a fast, uneven heartbeat
- Fever, chills and increased cough and phlegm (possible pneumonia)
This is not a complete list. If you notice anything unusual, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Use it exactly as your doctor tells you. A common plan is 1 or 2 puffs twice a day.
- If you follow a MART plan, you also use 1 puff when you have symptoms, up to your daily maximum.
- Shake the inhaler (if it is a spray), breathe out, seal your lips, breathe in deeply while pressing, then hold your breath for 10 seconds.
- Rinse your mouth and spit afterwards.
If you miss a dose: Use it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Never take two doses at once.
If you use too much: Contact your doctor, a poison control centre or your local emergency number straight away, even if you feel fine. Take the pack with you.
How to store it: Keep it in its original pack at room temperature (below 25°C / 77°F), away from heat, damp and direct sunlight. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- QHow do I know if my inhaler is empty?
- A
Check the dose counter if it has one. If it does not, keep track of how many puffs you have used.
- QWhy does my asthma plan matter?
- A
A written asthma action plan tells you what to do every day, when symptoms get worse, and in an emergency. Ask your doctor or nurse for one.
- QCan Symbicort be used as a reliever?
- A
For some people with asthma, yes, as part of a MART plan. Only use it this way if your doctor has told you to.

Ali Esposito –
My experience with this order was good. I found the cost to be better than what I saw elsewhere. I appreciated the clear emails about my order.