Budesonide/formoterol
Brand: Symbicort
Key warning
Caution: controller inhaler, not for acute attacks; FDA removed the ICS/LABA asthma-death boxed warning in 2017
Common side effects
- Oral thrush
- Hoarseness
- Headache
- Throat irritation
- Tremor
Key interactions & cautions
- Caution with other QT-prolonging drugs
- Additive tremor with other stimulants
- Some antifungals raise steroid levels
Counseling points
- Rinse mouth after each use
- Use daily as a controller, not a rescue inhaler
- Prime and clean the inhaler as directed
- Report worsening breathing
- Carry a separate rescue inhaler
High-yield study aid for exam prep — not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.