Combination corticosteroid and long-acting bronchodilator (breathing medicine)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination inhaler that contains two medicines — budesonide (which reduces swelling and inflammation in your airways) and formoterol (which relaxes the muscles around your airways to help you breathe easier). Together, they open up your air passages and keep them calm so you can breathe better.
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the airways, suppressing inflammatory mediators and reducing airway inflammation, while simultaneously activating beta-2 adrenergic receptors to promote smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For adults, the usual dose is 1 to 2 puffs twice a day (morning and evening). Your doctor will decide the right strength for you. Inhale the medicine deeply into your lungs, then hold your breath for about 10 seconds. Rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent mouth infections — spit the water out, don't swallow it.
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Always buy from a licensed pharmacy — inhalers sold by roadside vendors or in open markets may be fake, expired, or improperly stored, which can be dangerous. Do not stop using this inhaler suddenly because you feel better — it is a controller medicine meant to be used regularly as prescribed. Make sure you learn the correct inhaler technique from your pharmacist, as using it wrongly means the medicine won't reach your lungs properly.
Avoid using with beta-blocker medicines (like atenolol or propranolol used for high blood pressure or heart problems) as they can reduce how well this inhaler works. Be cautious if you are taking ketoconazole or itraconazole (antifungal medicines) as they can increase the effect of budesonide in your body. Alcohol does not directly interact, but if you have breathing problems, heavy drinking can worsen your condition.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Budesonide; with your other drugs?
Consult your doctor before using this inhaler if you are pregnant or breastfeeding — your doctor will weigh the benefits against any risks to your baby, but uncontrolled asthma is also dangerous during pregnancy.
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. In Nigeria's hot weather, keep it in a cool, dry place — not inside a car or near a window. Keep the cap on the inhaler when not in use. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Budesonide; Formoterol Fumarate Dihydrate?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.