Symbicort Turbuhaler 60MD vs Top Inhaler Alternatives - Full Comparison
Symbicort Turbuhaler vs Alternatives Comparison Tool
Choosing the right inhaler can feel like navigating a maze of names, devices, and dosages. If you’re weighing Symbicort Turbuhaler against other options, you need clear facts about how it works, what alternatives exist, and which factors matter most for your breathing health.
What Makes Symbicort Turbuhaler Unique?
Symbicort Turbuhaler is a dry‑powder inhaler that delivers a fixed combination of Formoterol (a long‑acting β2‑agonist) and Budesonide (an inhaled corticosteroid). The device uses a breath‑actuated mechanism, meaning you simply inhale to release the medication-no need to press a canister.
Formoterol provides quick bronchodilation within minutes and maintains airway openness for up to 12 hours. Budesonide reduces inflammation, lowering the frequency of asthma attacks and improving overall lung function. Together, they offer both rescue‑like relief and long‑term control in a single inhaler.
Key Criteria for Comparing Inhalers
When you stack Symbicort against other inhalers, focus on these six dimensions:
- Active ingredients - the specific bronchodilator and steroid used.
- Dosage flexibility - can you adjust strength or frequency?
- Device type - dry powder, metered‑dose, or soft mist.
- Efficacy & safety profile - clinical outcomes and side‑effect rates.
- Cost & insurance coverage - out‑of‑pocket price in Australia and Medicare eligibility.
- Patient preference - ease of use, portability, and inhalation technique.
Top Inhaler Alternatives
Below are the most widely prescribed alternatives that share at least one component of Symbicort’s formula.
Advair Diskus combines Salmeterol (LABA) with Fluticasone propionate (ICS). It uses a multi‑dose blister inhaler.
Breo Ellipta pairs Formoterol with Fluticasone furoate in a once‑daily, breath‑actuated tablet inhaler.
Pulmicort Respules delivers Budesonide alone via a nebulizer solution, suitable for patients who struggle with inhaler coordination.
Other noteworthy options include Seretide Accuhaler (Salmeterol+Fluticasone) and Allegra Respimat (Formoterol+Budesonide) - both using dry‑powder formats.
Side‑by‑Side Comparison Table
| Attribute | Symbicort Turbuhaler | Advair Diskus | Breo Ellipta | Pulmicort Respules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active LABA | Formoterol | Salmeterol | Formoterol | - (ICS only) |
| Active ICS | Budesonide 80µg per inhalation | Fluticasone propionate 100µg per inhalation | Fluticasone furoate 100µg per inhalation | Budesonide 0.5mg per nebulized dose |
| Device type | Dry‑powder Turbuhaler (breath‑actuated) | Dry‑powder Diskus (rotary blister) | Dry‑powder Ellipta (single‑step) | Solution for nebulizer |
| Dosing frequency | Twice daily | Twice daily | Once daily | 2‑4 times daily (as prescribed) |
| Onset of bronchodilation | ~1‑2min | ~5‑10min | ~1‑2min | Not applicable (ICS only) |
| Typical annual cost (AU$) | ≈$800‑$950 | ≈$850‑$1000 | ≈$750‑$900 | ≈$300‑$450 (nebulizer consumables extra) |
| Common side effects | Thrush, hoarseness, tremor | Thrush, hoarseness, headache | Thrush, sore throat, oral candida | Hoarseness, oral thrush (if not rinsed) |
Pros and Cons of Each Option
Symbicort Turbuhaler
- + Fast onset thanks to Formoterol.
- + Integrated LABA+ICS reduces the need for multiple devices.
- - Requires a strong, steady inhalation; may be hard for very young children.
- - Slightly higher out‑of‑pocket cost than some generic combos.
Advair Diskus
- + Long‑track record; widely covered by Australian PBS.
- + Salmeterol is slightly less rapid, which some patients prefer for smoother onset.
- - Device can be confusing; you must turn a lever to load each dose.
- - Twice‑daily dosing can be less convenient than once‑daily options.
Breo Ellipta
- + Once‑daily dosing simplifies adherence.
- + Fluticasone furoate has a longer half‑life, allowing the single‑dose schedule.
- - Higher steroid potency may increase risk of oral thrush if not rinsed.
- - Not available in a 60µg budesonide strength, limiting dose tailoring.
Pulmicort Respules
- + Ideal for patients who can’t master dry‑powder inhalers.
- + Budesonide provides strong anti‑inflammatory effect.
- - No bronchodilator component, so you still need a separate reliever inhaler.
- - Requires a nebulizer machine, adding bulk and cleaning time.
How to Choose the Right Inhaler for You
Think of inhaler selection as a personalised checklist.
- Assess your inhalation ability. If you struggle to generate a fast, deep breath, a nebulized Budesonide (Pulmicort) or a soft‑mist device may be safest.
- Consider dosing frequency. Busy lifestyles often benefit from once‑daily options like Breo Ellipta.
- Review insurance coverage. In Australia, PBS subsidises Advair and Symbicort for many patients; check your co‑pay level.
- Evaluate side‑effect tolerance. If oral thrush is a recurring problem, a lower‑dose budesonide regimen (Symbicort 60µg) might be preferable.
- Talk to your prescriber. They can run spirometry or peak‑flow tests to confirm that the chosen LABA‑ICS combo achieves the desired FEV₁ improvement.
Ultimately, the best inhaler balances clinical effectiveness with your daily routine. No single product wins on every criterion, so weigh what matters most for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Symbicort Turbuhaler to an alternative without a doctors prescription?
In Australia, all LABA‑ICS combos are prescription‑only. You’ll need a clinician’s approval to change devices, mainly to ensure correct dosing and technique.
Is the 60µg budesonide dose in Symbicort enough for moderate asthma?
For many adults with moderate persistent asthma, 60µg budesonide combined with 4.5µg formoterol meets guideline targets. If symptoms persist, a higher‑strength inhaler (e.g., 80µg budesonide) may be recommended.
What’s the main difference between Formoterol and Salmeterol?
Formoterol has a faster onset (1‑2min) and can be used as a rescue inhaler in some guidelines, while Salmeterol takes about 5‑10min to kick in and is strictly a maintenance agent.
Are there any safety concerns using a combination inhaler versus separate inhalers?
Combination inhalers reduce the risk of missed doses but can make dose‑adjustment harder. If you need to taper the steroid without changing the LABA, a separate inhaler pair may give finer control.
How do I minimize oral thrush with any inhaler?
Always rinse your mouth with water and spit after each dose. This simple habit cuts the candida growth risk by up to 80%.
Armed with this side‑by‑side data, you can have a more informed chat with your doctor and pick the inhaler that fits your life, budget, and breathing needs.