Symbicort Substitute: Find the Right Inhaler for Your Asthma or COPD

If you’ve been prescribed Symbicort but need a different option, you’re not alone. Many people look for a substitute because of cost, insurance limits, side‑effects, or simply wanting a different delivery device. Below we break down the most common Symbicort alternatives, how they compare, and what to think about before switching.

Top Symbicort Alternatives

1. Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) – This combo inhaler pairs a steroid (fluticasone) with a long‑acting bronchodilator (salmeterol). It works much like Symbicort and is widely covered by insurance. Some users report a smoother taste and a slightly larger inhaler, which can be easier for older hands.

2. Dulera (mometasone/formoterol) – Another steroid + LABA combo, Dulera uses mometasone instead of budesonide. It’s a good choice if you have a mild allergy to budesonide or if your doctor wants a higher steroid dose.

3. Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol) – This inhaler delivers a steroid and a different LABA (vilanterol) once a day. If you’re looking for fewer daily doses, Breo can be convenient. It also comes with a breath‑actuated device that some find easier to use.

4. Combivent Respimat (ipratropium/albuterol) – While not a steroid combo, Combivent adds a short‑acting bronchodilator with an anticholinergic. It’s useful for people who need quick relief and a maintenance inhaler together, especially in COPD.

5. Generic budesonide/formoterol inhalers – Many pharmacies now stock generic versions of the exact Symbicort mix. These can cut cost dramatically while keeping the same dosage and device type.

How to Choose the Right Inhaler

Start with your doctor’s advice. They’ll look at your diagnosis, how often you need rescue medication, and any past side‑effects. Ask about three key factors:

• Dosage strength – Make sure the steroid and LABA levels match what you need. Too low won’t control symptoms; too high may raise infection risk.
• Device type – Press‑actuated inhalers (like Symbicort) require a firm push, while breath‑actuated ones (like Breo) fire when you inhale. Choose the one you can use reliably every day.
• Cost and coverage – Check your insurance formulary. Sometimes a brand‑name inhaler is covered but the generic isn’t, or vice versa. Look for discount cards or pharmacy coupons if price is a barrier.

Don’t forget to practice proper technique. Even the best inhaler won’t work if it’s not used correctly. Take a few minutes with your pharmacist to watch a video or get a live demo.

Finally, monitor your symptoms after any switch. Keep a simple log of wheezing, night‑time awakenings, and rescue inhaler use for two weeks. If you notice more flare‑ups, call your doctor right away—sometimes a dose adjustment or a different combo is needed.

Finding a Symbicort substitute doesn’t have to be stressful. With a clear idea of your needs, a few good alternatives, and a plan to check technique and costs, you can keep breathing easy without missing a beat.