Symbicort alternatives

Symbicort combines budesonide (an inhaled steroid) and formoterol (a long-acting bronchodilator). If Symbicort isn't working for you, is too expensive, or causes side effects, you have solid alternatives. Below I list common prescription swaps, device options, and when to talk to your doctor.

Main prescription alternatives

Other inhaled corticosteroid + LABA combos: Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol), Dulera (mometasone/formoterol), Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol). Dulera is closest to Symbicort because it uses formoterol, which works faster than salmeterol. Breo is often used once daily for COPD and asthma with good adherence.

If you need more bronchodilation, LAMA or LAMA+LABA choices exist: Spiriva (tiotropium) and Stiolto (tiotropium+olodaterol) help people with COPD and some asthma patients. For severe control, triple therapy like Trelegy (ICS+LABA+LAMA) can reduce flare-ups.

For milder cases, an inhaled steroid alone (Flovent, Pulmicort) or a separate LABA plus a rescue SABA (albuterol) may be enough. Leukotriene modifiers such as montelukast can help allergic triggers or exercise-induced symptoms. For uncontrolled severe asthma, biologics (omalizumab, mepolizumab, benralizumab) target inflammation differently and can cut steroid need.

How to choose and what to watch for

Choice depends on diagnosis (asthma vs COPD), symptom pattern, drug side effects, inhaler type, and cost. Formoterol acts faster than salmeterol, so Dulera may feel quicker for symptom relief, though none replace a rescue inhaler. Inhaler devices matter: dry powder inhalers (DPI) like Ellipta require a strong breath; MDIs need coordination or a spacer. Pick the device you’ll use correctly.

Common side effects across these drugs include oral thrush, hoarseness, increased heart rate, and tremor. Rinse your mouth after steroid inhalers and report persistent changes in voice or breathing. If you notice frequent rescue inhaler use, waking from symptoms, or reduced activity, tell your clinician — treatment needs stepping up.

Cost can steer choices. Generics and patient assistance programs lower bills. If buying online, use pharmacies that require prescriptions, show licenses, and have clear contact info. Our site covers safe online pharmacy tips and price comparison tricks to save on meds.

Ask your clinician about a trial switch, inhaler technique check, and follow-up plan. A short change with clear goals — fewer symptoms, fewer night wakings, fewer side effects — is the best way to find what works for you.

Before switching, write down what helps and what doesn't: number of rescue puffs per day, nights woken, exercise limits, side effects. Bring your inhaler for a technique check. Expect follow-up in 2 to 6 weeks to see effect. If cost is main issue, ask about generics or manufacturer coupons; some practices can prescribe different device types for easier use. For COPD, doctors sometimes prioritize LAMA or triple therapy. Avoid changing meds suddenly without guidance — stopping steroids can raise inflammation. If you're pregnant or have heart disease, mention that — some bronchodilators affect heart rate.

Know emergency signs: sudden severe breathlessness, lips turning blue, or inability to speak full sentences — call emergency services right away. Keep an asthma action plan and track peak flow if you can. For device tips and safe online pharmacies, check our guides today.