This inhaler pairs two medicines. Budesonide is a steroid that settles the swelling inside the airways over time, and formoterol relaxes the muscle around them so they open up. Together they control asthma and COPD better than either does alone.

What Budesonide and Formoterol Is Used For

Regular control of asthma that is not settled by a steroid inhaler alone
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with repeated flare ups
In some asthma plans, as both the daily and the reliever inhaler

Common Side Effects

Hoarse voice and throat irritation
Oral thrush
Mild tremor or a fast heartbeat
Headache

Precautions

Rinse your mouth with water after every use and spit it out, which is what prevents thrush and hoarseness. Keep using it daily even when breathing feels normal, because the steroid part works by prevention. A spacer helps a great deal with metered dose inhalers, and your pharmacist can show you the technique.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.