Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol (Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate MDI)

Name: Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol
Brand: AstraZeneca
SKU: 6960
Availability: InStock

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol (known as Vannair in New Zealand 100mcg/6mcg)

Manufacturer: AstraZeneca

Country: New Zealand

Dosage: 80 mcg/4.5 mcg/120 dose

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol (known as Vannair in New Zealand 200mcg/6mcg)

Manufacturer: AstraZeneca

Country: New Zealand

Dosage: 160 mcg/4.5 mcg/120 dose

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate MDI

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 100 mcg/6 mcg/120 dose

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate MDI (ON BACKORDER)

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 100 mcg/6 mcg/120 dose

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate MDI (ON BACKORDER)

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 200 mcg/6 mcg/120 dose

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate MDI

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 400 mcg/6 mcg/120 dose

Qty-Price (USD):

Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol Information

medically reviewed by Carol Hou (BSc. Pharm) on August 25, 2025.

A licensed pharmacist (Licensed Community Pharmacies Directory | College of Pharmacists of British Columbia) with over 20 years of experience in medication management, specifically medication safety, she has reviewed the information for accuracy and completeness.

Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol and Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate at CanadaPharmacyOnline.com

The brand name Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol, manufactured by AstraZeneca, is available in many countries worldwide. In New Zealand, the equivalent medication, available in an inhalation aerosol form, is known as Vannair, also manufactured by AstraZeneca. In Canada, the brand name Symbicort is primarily used as the Symbicort Turbuhaler, a dry powder inhaler (DPI).

Generic budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate is sourced from manufacturers that meet applicable regulatory standards. The specific manufacturer of your dispensed medication may vary.

Important Information about Generic Budesonide/Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate

Generic budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate contains the same active ingredient as brand-name Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol and is required to meet the same safety, effectiveness, and quality standards. This means it is designed to work in the same way as Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol. Studies have shown that generic budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate is bioequivalent to brand-name Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol, meaning they have similar absorption rates and reach similar concentrations in the bloodstream. However, individual responses to medication can vary due to factors such as metabolism, genetics, and other health conditions.

For more information about generic drug approval and bioequivalence, you can visit the Health Canada website: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/drug-products/fact-sheets/access-to-generic-drugs.html.

Dosage:

Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol is commonly available as a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) with 120 doses per inhaler, in the following strengths:
• 80 mcg Budesonide / 4.5 mcg Formoterol (This is the amount delivered from the valve per puff).
• 160 mcg Budesonide / 4.5 mcg Formoterol (This is also the amount delivered from the valve per puff).

Generic versions of budesonide/formoterol are widely available, typically offering 120 doses per inhaler, mirroring the brand-name pMDI strengths:
• 80 mcg Budesonide / 4.5 mcg Formoterol
• 160 mcg Budesonide / 4.5 mcg Formoterol

Note: Other nominal dose pMDI strengths (e.g., 100 mcg / 6 mcg or 200 mcg / 6 mcg) may be available from specific generic manufacturers depending on the region.

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs and medical conditions.

Usage:

Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol is a prescription medication used to manage long-term breathing conditions, such as asthma (for patients aged six and older) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in adults. It combines budesonide, an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid, and formoterol, a bronchodilator that helps open airways. Symbicort works by reducing inflammation in the lungs and keeping airways relaxed, which helps prevent symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. It's crucial to remember that Symbicort is a controller medication for daily use and not a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems.

Mechanism of Action:
Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) is a combination medication that works through two distinct mechanisms to improve breathing.

• Budesonide: This component is a corticosteroid, a type of anti-inflammatory medicine. It works to reduce chronic inflammation and swelling within the airways, which helps prevent symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
• Formoterol: This component is a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA), which acts as a fast-acting and long-lasting bronchodilator. It works by relaxing the smooth muscles around the airways, causing them to open up and making it easier for air to pass through.

By combining these two active ingredients, Symbicort provides both long-term inflammation control and sustained bronchodilation. This dual action helps to manage the underlying condition and improve lung function. It is important to note that Symbicort is a daily maintenance medication intended to prevent symptoms and is not a rescue inhaler for acute, sudden breathing attacks.

Take Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol as prescribed by your doctor. Please visit Vannair Consumer Medicine Information | Medsafe or the product monograph for any generic budesonide/formoterol pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) available in Canada, accessible through the Drug and Health Product Portal. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance and safe use.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before taking Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential side effects of Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common side effects – These are some common side effects of Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol, but others are possible. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
• Back pain, stomach discomfort, or vomiting
• Fast heartbeat or palpitations (awareness of your heart beating)
• Headache
• Nasal congestion or sinusitis
• Oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth and throat) - Rinsing your mouth with water after use can help prevent this.
• Shakiness or trembling
• Throat irritation
• Upper respiratory tract infection

Less Common Side Effects:
• Anxiety or sleep disturbances
• Blurred vision
• Dryness of the throat
• Flu-like symptoms
• Hoarseness or voice changes
• Muscle cramps

Serious Side Effects: These are rare but potentially severe. Seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services if you experience any of the following:
• Adrenal gland suppression (when the adrenal glands don't make enough hormones).
• Cardiovascular effects such as chest pain, a dangerously fast or irregular heartbeat, or a significant increase in blood pressure.
• Increased wheezing or difficulty breathing immediately after use (paradoxical bronchospasm).
• Low blood potassium levels (hypokalemia).
• Severe allergic reactions (hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing).
• Severe Infections, including pneumonia, due to a weakened immune system.

Contraindications:

The following is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Before starting Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol, it is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist.

Do NOT Use Symbicort If:
• You are having an acute asthma or COPD attack. Symbicort is a maintenance medication and is NOT a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems.
• You have a history of a severe allergic reaction to budesonide, formoterol, or any other ingredients in Symbicort.
• You are currently taking any other medication that also contains a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA). Combining LABAs can increase the risk of serious side effects.

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, past and present, before starting Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol. This is crucial because certain conditions can affect whether Symbicort is right for you. These conditions may include, but are not limited to:
• A seizure disorder.
• A weakened immune system or an active infection (e.g., tuberculosis). Symbicort may weaken the immune system and worsen infections. • Diabetes, as Symbicort can increase blood sugar levels.
• Eye problems, such as glaucoma or cataracts.
• Heart problems, including high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, or heart failure.
• Liver problems, as your body may not clear the medication properly.
• Osteoporosis or risk factors for low bone mineral density.
• Sudden or worsening breathing problems, as this may indicate a need for immediate medical attention.
• Thyroid problems, such as hyperthyroidism.

Drug Interactions:

Before taking Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol, it is essential to discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete and up-to-date information, please visit the official patient website at https://www.mysymbicort.com/.

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, herbal supplements, recreational drugs, or significant dietary changes you are making, as these could potentially interact with Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol. Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol may interact with other medicines, but is not limited to:
• Antidepressants (MAOIs and TCAs): These can enhance the effect of formoterol on the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular side effects.
• Beta-Blockers: Medications for high blood pressure or heart conditions can counteract the effects of Symbicort, making it less effective and potentially causing severe breathing problems.
• Diuretics (Water Pills): Certain diuretics can increase the risk of low blood potassium levels, which Symbicort can also affect.
• Other Corticosteroids: Combining Symbicort with other steroids (oral or inhaled) can increase the overall steroid exposure and related side effects.
• Other LABAs: As noted above, using other medications that contain a LABA (e.g., salmeterol) is not recommended.
• Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like certain antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) and HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir) can increase the levels of budesonide in your body, leading to a higher risk of steroid-related side effects.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) can be a necessary medication for managing asthma or COPD, even during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For pregnant individuals, the benefits of well-controlled asthma often outweigh potential risks to the baby, as uncontrolled asthma can be more harmful. If you're pregnant or planning to be, it's vital to discuss your Symbicort use with your doctor, who will ensure you're on the lowest effective dose. While one component, budesonide, is known to pass into breast milk in very small amounts that aren't expected to harm the baby, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding to weigh the benefits and ensure the safest approach for both you and your infant.

Frequently Asked Questions about Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol at Canada Pharmacy Online:

Why is Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including Symbicort Inhaler Aerosol, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower costs compared to the U.S., where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy is committed to offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.

How do I order from your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

Can you stop Symbicort suddenly?

You should not stop using Symbicort without speaking to your doctor first. If you stop suddenly, your breathing symptoms of asthma or COPD may worsen.

Can Symbicort cause weight gain?

Symbicort can affect metabolism, potentially increasing appetite and contributing to weight gain.

Can Symbicort be used for pets?

Symbicort may be prescribed for cats and dogs with chronic asthma and other respiratory disorders.

Is there a limit on the number of Symbicort Aerosols I can order at one time?

CanadaPharmacyOnline.com can only dispense a maximum of a three-month supply of Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol at one time, as per your doctor's prescription.

Can I buy Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol over the counter from you?

No, Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol requires a valid prescription from your doctor. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.

Do you ship to the United States?

Yes, we do. It usually takes between 7 and 18 business days to receive your order from our pharmacy.

How should I store Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol?

Store Symbicort Inhalation Aerosol at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C. Keep Symbicort and all medicines out of the reach of children (source).

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The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

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