Symbicort Alternatives: What Works Best for Your Breathing?

If you’re tired of Symbicort or just want to explore other choices, you’ve come to the right place. Below we break down the most common inhalers that can replace Symbicort, explain how they differ, and give practical tips on picking the right one.

Why Look for an Alternative?

People switch from Symbicort for many reasons: insurance coverage, side‑effects, cost, or simply wanting a different dosing schedule. The good news is that several inhalers combine a corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation) with a long‑acting bronchodilator (to keep airways open), just like Symbicort does.

Top Inhaler Picks That Can Substitute Symbicort

1. Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) – This is the most well‑known combo inhaler. It works similarly by delivering a steroid and a LABA, but many users find its taste smoother. If your insurance lists Advair as a preferred drug, it can be a cheap swap.

2. Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol) – Breo is taken once daily instead of twice, which some people love for convenience. The steroid dose is slightly higher, so talk to your doctor if you’ve had irritation with other inhalers.

3. Dulera (mometasone/formoterol) – Dulera uses a different steroid (mometasone) that can be gentler on the throat. It’s approved for both asthma and COPD, making it a versatile pick if you have overlapping conditions.

4. Anoro Ellipta (umeclidinium/vilanterol) – If you need extra bronchodilation, Anoro adds a long‑acting anticholinergic on top of the LABA. It’s not a steroid combo, so pair it with an inhaled corticosteroid if inflammation is still an issue.

5. Albuterol (short‑acting) + Inhaled Steroid – Some people split their treatment: use a daily low‑dose inhaled steroid (like Flovent) and keep a rescue inhaler such as albuterol for flare‑ups. This approach can cut costs and reduce LABA exposure.

Each of these options has its own dosing schedule, side‑effect profile, and price point. The best choice depends on how often you need relief, your insurance formulary, and any sensitivities you’ve experienced.

How to Choose the Right One for You

Check Your Insurance Formulary First. Most insurers list a preferred inhaler that costs less out of pocket. If Advair or Breo shows up as “tier 1,” you’ll save a lot compared to paying full price for Symbicort.

Consider Dosing Frequency. Taking a medication once daily (like Breo) can improve adherence, especially if you often forget the second dose. On the flip side, some doctors prefer twice‑daily dosing for tighter control.

Watch for Side Effects. If you’ve had throat irritation or hoarseness with Symbicort, try a different steroid such as mometasone (Dulera) or fluticasone (Advair). A spacer device can also reduce local side effects.

Think About Your Diagnosis. COPD patients sometimes benefit from adding an anticholinergic (Anoro) to their regimen. Asthma‑only patients may do fine with a simpler combo like Advair.

Finally, always discuss any switch with your healthcare provider. They can help you transition safely, adjust the dose, and monitor how well the new inhaler controls symptoms.

Bottom line: there are plenty of Symbicort alternatives that match or even improve on its performance. By checking insurance, weighing dosing preferences, and watching for side effects, you’ll land on an inhaler that fits your life and keeps your lungs happy.