Asthma Treatment Options

There are two primary types of asthma treatments—rescue medicines and controller medicines.

Rescue vs. Controller

Asthma rescue medicines are not meant to be used every day
Asthma controller medicines are meant to be used every day

When used as prescribed, controller medicines help prevent asthma symptoms on an ongoing basis. Some medicines, such as SYMBICORT, work by helping to prevent the underlying inflammation and constrictions which cause asthma symptoms to worsen. It’s important to remember that controller medicines should not be used to treat sudden symptoms. A rescue inhaler should be used as directed to treat sudden symptoms.

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Next: How SYMBICORT Works

The information on this Web site should not take the place of talking with your doctor or health care provider about how to manage and treat your asthma. If you have any questions about your condition, or if you would like more information about SYMBICORT or asthma, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Only you and your doctor can decide if SYMBICORT is right for you.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is SYMBICORT?

Prescription SYMBICORT^® (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) Inhalation Aerosol is a controller medicine for the long-term maintenance treatment of asthma. SYMBICORT is for people 12 years and older whose doctor has decided are not well controlled on another asthma-controller medicine or who need two asthma-controller medicines. SYMBICORT is not for the treatment of sudden
asthma symptoms.

What is the most important safety information I should know about SYMBICORT?

SYMBICORT contains formoterol, a long-acting
beta₂-agonist (LABA). Medicines containing LABAs may increase the chance of asthma-related death. So, SYMBICORT should be used only if your health care professional decides another asthma-controller medicine alone does not control your asthma or you need two controller medicines.

While taking SYMBICORT, never use another medicine containing a LABA.

What other important safety information should I know about SYMBICORT?

SYMBICORT won’t replace rescue inhalers for sudden symptoms. Do not use SYMBICORT more than twice a day.

If you are taking SYMBICORT, see your health care professional if your asthma does not improve or gets worse.

Some people may experience increased blood pressure, heart rate, or change in heart rhythm. Tell your doctor if you have a heart condition or high blood pressure.

If you are switching to SYMBICORT from an oral corticosteroid, follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid health risks when you stop using oral corticosteroids.

Avoid exposure to infections such as chicken pox or measles. Tell your health care professional immediately if you are exposed.

In clinical studies, common side effects included nose and throat irritation, headache, upper respiratory tract infection, sore throat, sinusitis, and stomach discomfort.

Please see Prescribing Information and Medication Guide for SYMBICORT.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.