Budesonide and Formoterol
Symbicort is a brand-name combination inhaler containing budesonide (an inhaled corticosteroid) and formoterol (a long-acting bronchodilator). It is used for maintenance treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), helping to control symptoms and reduce exacerbations by decreasing airway inflammation and relaxing airway muscles.
Symbicort is a maintenance inhaler for asthma and COPD that combines an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid with a long-acting bronchodilator.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 327148
- Generic
- Symbicort
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Symbicort is indicated for maintenance therapy in patients with asthma and COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is not intended for acute symptom relief and should be used regularly as prescribed, even when symptoms are absent.
Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and swelling in the airways, while formoterol is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA) that relaxes smooth muscles in the bronchial passages, opening the airways and making breathing easier.
Symbicort carries a boxed warning that LABAs increase the risk of asthma-related death. It should not be used as a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems. Patients should rinse their mouth after use to reduce the risk of oral thrush. Common side effects may include headache, throat irritation, and upper respiratory infection.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy