Symbicort Turbuhaler Comparison: How It Stacks Up Against Other Asthma & COPD Inhalers

When you’re managing asthma or COPD, your Symbicort Turbuhaler, a combination inhaler containing budesonide and formoterol used to control inflammation and open airways. Also known as budesonide/formoterol inhaler, it’s one of the most prescribed maintenance treatments for long-term control—not rescue. But it’s not the only option. Many people wonder: Is it better than Advair, Breo, or generic combos? And does the Turbuhaler device itself make a difference compared to other inhalers?

Let’s break it down. budesonide, a corticosteroid that reduces swelling and mucus in the airways works alongside formoterol, a long-acting beta agonist that relaxes airway muscles for up to 12 hours. That combo is the core of several inhalers, but the delivery system matters. The Turbuhaler is a dry powder device—you breathe in deeply to activate it. Compare that to metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) like Advair, which need perfect timing with a puff, or soft mist inhalers like Respimat, which release a slower cloud. If you struggle with coordination, the Turbuhaler can be easier. But if your hands are shaky, it might be harder to load.

Cost is another big factor. Symbicort Turbuhaler is brand-name, and prices vary wildly depending on where you buy it. Generic budesonide/formoterol inhalers exist in some countries, but not all. Meanwhile, alternatives like Advair Diskus use fluticasone instead of budesonide, which some studies suggest may cause slightly more throat irritation. Breo Ellipta combines fluticasone with vilanterol and is dosed once daily, which is convenient—but not always more effective. Then there’s Anoro Ellipta, which skips the steroid entirely and is only for COPD, not asthma. Each has different side effect profiles: oral thrush, hoarseness, or increased heart rate can pop up with any inhaled combo, but the dose and device influence how often.

Real people report different experiences. One user switched from Symbicort to a generic because of cost and noticed no change in symptoms. Another found the Turbuhaler’s click-and-breathe design more reliable than their old MDI, especially during panic attacks. And if you’re on Medicare or insurance, your plan might cover one brand but not another. There’s no single "best" inhaler—only the one that fits your lungs, your budget, and your daily life.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons between Symbicort Turbuhaler and other treatments—what works, what doesn’t, and what your doctor might not tell you. No marketing fluff. Just straight talk on how these inhalers actually perform in everyday use.

Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD vs Top Asthma & COPD Inhaler Alternatives

Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD vs Top Asthma & COPD Inhaler Alternatives

  • Sep, 27 2025
  • 9

A detailed side‑by‑side look at Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD (formoterol+budesonide) and its most common alternatives, covering efficacy, dosing, device type and practical tips for patients.