Symbicort Alternatives: What You Can Use for Asthma & COPD
If you’ve been using Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) but need a change, you’re not alone. Many patients switch because of side effects, insurance coverage, or simply looking for something that fits their lifestyle better. Below we break down the most common alternatives, how they work, and what to think about before swapping.
Why Look for an Alternative?
Symbicort combines a steroid (budesonide) with a long‑acting bronchodilator (formoterol). While that combo works great for many, it can cause throat irritation, oral thrush, or jittery feelings. Insurance plans sometimes list cheaper options, and some doctors prefer inhalers that separate the two ingredients. If any of these sound familiar, exploring other inhalers makes sense.
Top Symbicort Alternatives
1. Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) – Like Symbicort, it pairs a steroid with a long‑acting bronchodilator. Fluticasone is a bit stronger on inflammation, while salmeterol offers steady relief. It’s widely covered by Canadian plans and works well for both asthma and COPD.
2. Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol) – One‑dose daily inhaler that can simplify your routine. Vilanterol is another LABA, similar to formoterol, but the once‑daily schedule helps people who forget doses.
3. Dulera (mometasone/formoterol) – Uses mometasone instead of budesonide. Some patients find it gentler on the throat while still delivering solid bronchodilation. It’s a good middle ground if you like the formoterol part but need a different steroid.
4. Pulmicort Respules (budesonide) + Separate LABA – If the steroid is fine but you want to control the bronchodilator separately, use budesonide inhalation powder with a short‑acting rescue like albuterol, plus a long‑acting LABA such as salmeterol on its own. This gives more flexibility in dosing.
5. Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol) – Adds an anticholinergic (umeclidinium) to the mix, which can be a game‑changer for COPD patients who need extra airway opening. It’s a triple therapy inhaler taken once daily.
Each of these options has its own pros and cons. For example, Advair may cause more hoarseness than Symbicort, while Breo’s once‑daily dosing can be great for busy schedules but may feel less “on‑demand” for some users.
How to Choose the Right One
Start by listing what matters most: cost, dosing frequency, side‑effect profile, or specific lung function goals. Talk with your pharmacist about insurance coverage – often a switch saves money without sacrificing control. Ask your doctor if you need a stronger steroid, a different LABA, or an added anticholinergic for COPD.
Don’t forget technique. Even the best inhaler fails if you don’t use it right. Take a moment to watch a video or ask the clinic to check your breathing pattern. A small mistake can make any medication seem ineffective.
Finally, give yourself a few weeks on the new inhaler before deciding it’s not working. Adjustments in dosage or adding a rescue inhaler are common during the transition period.
Switching from Symbicort doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right information and a quick chat with your healthcare team, you can find an inhaler that keeps your lungs clear and fits your life perfectly.
