Symbicort: a practical guide to what it does and how to use it

Symbicort combines two drugs: budesonide (a steroid) and formoterol (a fast-acting bronchodilator). You use it to control chronic asthma and some cases of COPD. It reduces airway inflammation and helps open your airways, so you breathe easier day to day.

How Symbicort works and when to use it

Think of Symbicort as a daily controller, not a one-off rescue inhaler. Budesonide tames inflammation over time. Formoterol relaxes airway muscles quickly — unlike other long-acting bronchodilators, formoterol can act fast enough to help with sudden symptoms in some treatment plans. Only use it as a rescue if your doctor has told you to (this is called single maintenance and reliever therapy or SMART).

Typical strengths are 80/4.5 mcg and 160/4.5 mcg per inhalation. Many adults take 1–2 puffs twice daily, but your doctor will set your exact dose. Never increase dose on your own if symptoms get worse — call your prescriber.

Using Symbicort right: simple steps and tips

Follow the device instructions. If it’s an MDI, shake well, exhale, press & inhale slowly, then hold your breath 5–10 seconds. If a dry-powder device, load as directed and inhale deeply. A spacer helps if you struggle with coordination. Rinse your mouth and spit after using Symbicort to lower the chance of thrush (yeast infection in the mouth).

Check your inhaler regularly: note remaining doses, keep it clean and store at room temperature away from heat. If you’re coughing more, using your rescue inhaler more, or waking at night with symptoms, contact your doctor — those are signs your asthma or COPD may need a change in treatment.

Common side effects are throat irritation, hoarseness, mild tremor, headache, and increased heart rate. Oral thrush is possible; mouth rinsing helps. Serious signs that need immediate care include chest pain, severe palpitations, sudden worsening breathing, or signs of allergic reaction like swelling or a rash.

Watch drug interactions: beta-blockers can reduce formoterol’s effect. Some antidepressants and stimulants may raise heart risk when combined with bronchodilators. Tell your prescriber about all medicines and supplements you take.

Buying online? Always use a licensed pharmacy and keep your prescription. Avoid sites that skip prescriptions or offer unusually low prices without contact info. Your safety depends on genuine labeling, correct storage, and real pharmacist support.

If you’re unsure about technique, side effects, or whether Symbicort suits you, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Bringing the inhaler to a visit for a quick technique check can make a big difference in how well it works.