New low-dose LABA/corticosteroid inhaler for asthma

By Chloe Harman on the 9 November 2020

A lower-dose metered-dose inhaler has been added to the Symbicort range.

Symbicort metered-dose inhaler (budesonide/formoterol) is now available in a 100/3 presentation. | AstraZeneca

The Symbicort 100/3 pressurised metered-dose inhaler delivers 80 micrograms of budesonide and 2.25 micrograms of formoterol fumarate dihydrate per puff, from a metered dose of 100 micrograms and 3 micrograms respectively.

Further information

View Symbicort 100/3 drug record Summary of Product Characteristics

Manufacturer: AstraZeneca

MIMS Respiratory Clinic

Symbicort 100/3 is indicated in adults and adolescents from 12 years for the regular treatment of asthma where use of a combination (inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting ß2 agonist) is appropriate, including:

in patients not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids and 'as needed' inhaled short-acting ß2 agonists, and
in patients already adequately controlled on both inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting ß2 agonists.

Symbicort 100/3 can be used for both maintenance and maintenance/reliever therapy.

The existing 200/6 Symbicort pMDI is licensed for use only in patients with COPD. Symbicort 100/3 pMDI is not approved for COPD.