Symbicort is a combination inhaler that combines the medications budesonide and formoterol in order to control and prevent asthma symptoms including shortness of breath and wheezing. Budesonide is a corticosteroid that reduces the swelling and irritation of the airways. Formoterol is a long-acting beta-agonist that works by opening the airways in the lungs in order to make breathing easier.
Symbicort Turbuhaler is an inhalation device with a different delivery system than a Symbicort inhaler.
Symbicort is not a rescue medication and should not be used to treat asthma or bronchospasm attack.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Symbicort Turbuhaler should be inhaled by mouth.
• If you drop, shake or exhale into your inhaler, you may need to reload your dose.
• Do not change or increase your Symbicort dosage unless your doctor directs you to do so.
• Rinse your mouth out with water without swallowing after using this inhaler.
• Continue taking this inhaler unless directed to stop by your doctor.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of high blood pressure, heart disease, past infections, irregular heartbeat, overactive thyroid, seizures, osteoporosis, eye problems, diabetes, liver disease, aneurysm or pheochromocytoma.
• If you have any current infections.
• If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breast feeding.

You should also know:

• Symbicort is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used to treat an asthma or bronchospasm attack.
• Budesonide may weaken your immune system.

Common side effects of Symbicort Turbuhaler include but are not limited to:

• Throat irritation or pain.
• Back pain or headache.
• Stomach discomfort or vomiting.
• Flu or cold symptoms including sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, sinus pain or sneezing.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of Symbicort Turbuhaler:

• Worsened breathing problems, wheezing or choking.
• White patches in your throat or mouth.
• Pain when you are swallowing.
• Shortness of breath or coughing with mucus.
• Eye pain, redness or vision changes such as blurred vision, tunnel vision or seeing halos around lights.
• Chest pain or fast or pounding heartbeats.
• Tremors or nervousness.
• Symptoms of flu such as fever, chills, unusual tiredness or body aches.
• High blood sugar symptoms including dry mouth, fruity breath odour, increased thirst or increased urination.
• Signs of a hormonal disorder including nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, tiredness or weakness.
• Signs of a low potassium level including muscle weakness, a limp feeling, numbness or tingling, constipation, leg cramps, fluttering in your chest or irregular heartbeats.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Symbicort Turbuhaler?

If you miss a dose of Symbicort Turbuhaler, skip your missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.

What is the difference between Symbicort Turbuhaler and the Symbicort inhaler?

Symbicort Turbuhaler and Symbicort Inhaler are both combination medications containing budesonide and formoterol. However, they have different delivery systems and different inhalation devices. Always follow your doctor’s prescription.