Symbicort: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

Symbicort combines two medicines—budesonide (a steroid) and formoterol (a long-acting bronchodilator)—to control asthma and COPD symptoms. It lowers inflammation and helps open airways so you breathe easier every day. Many people use Symbicort as a regular controller inhaler; some doctors also allow it for symptom relief alongside daily use. Still, it is not the same as a rescue inhaler for sudden, severe attacks—always keep a fast-acting inhaler nearby.

How to use Symbicort

Read the label and follow your prescriber's instructions. Typical routine is one or two puffs twice daily, but your dose may differ. Before first use, prime the inhaler as the leaflet says. Breathe out fully, place the mouthpiece between your lips, press the canister while breathing in slowly and deeply, then hold your breath for about ten seconds. If you need a spacer, use one for better delivery and fewer side effects. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after each use to reduce the risk of thrush and hoarseness.

Keep track of doses and order a refill before the inhaler runs out. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next one. Don’t double up. If your symptoms get worse or you need your rescue inhaler more often, contact your doctor—your treatment may need changing.

Side effects, interactions, and safety tips

Common side effects include throat irritation, a yeast infection in the mouth, tremor, and a fast heartbeat. Most are mild and often go away after a while. Rinsing your mouth cuts the thrush risk. Tell your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, seizures, or thyroid problems because formoterol can affect these conditions. Avoid regular nonselective beta-blockers unless your doctor approves, as they can reduce Symbicort’s effect.

Do not stop using Symbicort suddenly if you have been on it for weeks; steroid withdrawal can make symptoms worse. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your healthcare provider—Symbicort is sometimes used when benefits outweigh risks. Store the inhaler at room temperature, away from heat and open flame, and keep the cap on to protect the mouthpiece.

Head to the clinic if you notice severe side effects like chest pain, worsening breathing, allergic signs, or if the inhaler stops helping. Keep an emergency action plan for asthma or COPD and carry your rescue inhaler. If you want help choosing an inhaler, understanding doses, or timing medication around exercise, ask your pharmacist or doctor. Small technique changes can make a big difference in how well Symbicort works.

A few practical tips: clean the mouthpiece weekly, check the dose counter before travel, and carry an action plan. If you use a turbuhaler keep it dry. For children, spacers and masks help with delivery. If breathing suddenly worsens with high fever, green sputum, or blue lips, seek emergency care immediately. Track how often you need rescue inhaler doses and tell your doctor at appointments. Keep spare inhaler when flights allow.