Symbicort (generic: budesonide/formoterol) is a prescription medication used to prevent breathing difficulties, wheezing, and shortness of breath in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. Symbicort contains 2 medications, budesonide, a steroid that decreases inflammation, and formoterol, which belongs to a group of drugs called beta agonists. Beta agonists, like formoterol, work by relaxing smooth muscle of the airways in the lungs, making it easier to breathe.

This medication comes in the form of an inhaler. It is taken every day as 2 puffs into the lungs, twice daily.

Common side effects of Symbicort include throat irritation and pain, headache, and thrush infection.