Budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort) is a combination formulation containing budesonide and formoterol used in the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Budesonide acts by reducing and preventing respiratory tract inflammation, while formoterol dilates respiratory tract.
Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid and thus functions as an anti-inflammatory agent.
It is used to control and prevent symptoms of wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma or ongoing lung disease-chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
Budesonide is a corticosteroid, which works by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways.
Formoterol belongs to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists.
Long-acting beta agonists work by opening lung airways.
Long-acting beta agonists may rarely increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems.
Is administered as a metered-inhaler.
The combination inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting beta agonist has efficacy to prevent asthma attacks.
Indicated as a maintenance medication.
The combination of inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonists, do not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems.
The drug combination should be used when breathing problems are not well controlled with one asthma-control medication, such as inhaled corticosteroid, or if symptoms need combination treatment.
Headache, throat irritation, or stomach upset may occur.