Symbicort: what it is and how to use it
Symbicort is a combination inhaler that mixes an inhaled steroid (budesonide) with a fast-acting bronchodilator (formoterol). That combo both calms airway inflammation and opens breathing passages quickly. People use it for long-term asthma control and for maintenance treatment in COPD. Some doctors also prescribe it so the same inhaler can be used for sudden symptoms—ask your clinician if that approach fits your asthma plan.
How Symbicort works and common doses
Budesonide reduces swelling in the airways. Formoterol relaxes muscles in the lungs and works fast. Typical strengths you’ll see are 100/6 and 200/6 mcg (budesonide mcg / formoterol mcg) per puff. Many adults take one or two puffs twice daily for maintenance. Some treatment plans let you take extra puffs for symptom relief—only do that if your prescriber told you to. Never change dose without talking to your doctor.
Keep a record of how many puffs you use. Most Symbicort devices have dose counters—replace the inhaler when it reaches zero, even if it still has a little medicine left.
Using the inhaler right (quick, practical tips)
Devices vary by country: Symbicort comes as a pressurized inhaler (MDI) or a dry powder device. For MDIs: shake, breathe out, put the mouthpiece in your mouth, press once and inhale slowly and steadily, then hold your breath about 10 seconds. For dry powder devices: don’t shake; load the dose per instructions and inhale quickly and deeply. Use a spacer with an MDI if you struggle with timing. Rinse your mouth with water and spit after inhaling the steroid to lower the risk of oral thrush.
Always follow the step count on your inhaler, keep it clean, and store it away from heat. If you’re unsure which device you have, ask your pharmacist to show you technique—most people change how they inhale depending on the device.
Common side effects are throat irritation, hoarse voice, mild tremor, palpitations, headache, and candidiasis (thrush). Serious problems are rare but include worsening breathing, fast heartbeat, or allergic reaction—seek urgent care if that happens. For people with COPD, inhaled steroids can slightly raise the risk of pneumonia; discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.
Can you buy Symbicort online? Yes, but only from licensed pharmacies that require a valid prescription. Avoid unverified sellers offering prescription drugs without paperwork. Check that the pharmacy is registered with your country’s regulator (MHRA, FDA, or similar), read reviews, and never share more personal info than needed. If price is a concern, ask your prescriber about generic budesonide/formoterol options or patient assistance schemes.
If symptoms suddenly get worse or your reliever won’t help, follow your action plan and get medical help. Symbicort helps a lot when used correctly—talk to your doctor or pharmacist if anything about your inhaler confuses you.
