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Budesonide and formoterol

Brand names: Symbicort, Breyna

Budesonide-formoterol (Symbicort) is a controller inhaler for asthma and COPD. Some asthma plans also use it for quick relief.

Brand namesSymbicort, Breyna
Type of medicineController inhaler (steroid plus long-acting bronchodilator)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It combines a steroid (budesonide) and a fast-starting, long-acting bronchodilator (formoterol).

What it's used for

  • Asthma
  • COPD

How to take it

  • Shake it, then use it twice a day as prescribed.
  • Rinse your mouth with water and spit after each use.
  • Follow your written asthma action plan for whether to use it for quick relief too.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Sore throat
  • Hoarse voice
  • Thrush
  • Headache
  • Shakiness
Call 911Breathing gets worse right after using it
Call 911Chest pain or a fast, irregular heartbeat
Call your provider todayNeeding rescue medicine more often
Call your provider todayFever, cough with mucus, or chest pain (possible pneumonia)

Warnings

  • Long-term steroid use can affect bones, eyes, and growth in children.
  • Don't stop suddenly without asking.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Ritonavir, ketoconazole, and some other medicines raise steroid levels.
  • Beta blockers can block formoterol's effect.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Controlling asthma is important in pregnancy. Budesonide is a preferred inhaled steroid in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.