You might be plagued by a persistent cough, wheezing, or airway issues that affect your breathing. Are you doing anything to address these?
During rough seasons like cold and flu, or if you’re struggling with allergies, you must take action for your lungs. Your physician may have already recommended you take an asthma treatment using a bronchodilator to open your airways.
This led you to decide which to choose: albuterol vs Symbicort. But it can be quite a challenging ordeal. To help you out, here’s a comparison between albuterol and Symbicort to help you make the right decision.
What Is Albuterol?
Albuterol is a medication used to treat and prevent asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flare-ups. It is also a short-acting bronchodilator, meaning that it works to relax the muscles of the lungs and increase airflow.
It is taken as a pill, syrupy liquid, inhaler, or nebulizer solution, usually as needed for flare-ups. When inhaled, it acts on the bronchial muscle to relax and open the bronchial tube to ease breathing.
What Is Symbicort?
Symbicort is a combination medication that is used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It contains a combination of two medications – budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate.
These work together to reduce inflammation, open airways, and improve breathing. Budesonide is a corticosteroid, which helps to reduce inflammation in the airways. Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator. It helps to open the airways and improve airflow.
The Differences Between Albuterol vs Symbicort
Albuterol is considered a short-acting reliever bronchodilator, which opens the airways and eases symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing. But Symbicort is an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting bronchodilator.
It provides longer relief from these symptoms. The main difference between the two is the length of time they provide comfort. Albuterol is used as a quick fix, opening airways and providing quick relief.
Symbicort should be taken daily to maintain healthy lungs and keep asthma and allergies at bay. Depending on the needs of the individual, Albuterol or Symbicort can be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
What are the Costs
Intravenous, nebulizer, and inhaler forms of Albuterol can range in price from $30 to $100. This is depending on the dosage and delivery method.
Symbicort, on the other hand, is a brand-name medicine used. This is to reduce airway inflammation, mucous production, and swelling.
This medication typically costs more than Albuterol. This is averaging $100-$200 for a single prescription, depending on the strength of the drug. Patients must also be aware of changing prices, as generic Symbicort pricing is often subject to change depending on the case, COPD treatment, for instance.
Both medications relieve asthma symptoms, while the costs and availability may vary. Before selecting either one, patients need to speak with their physician. Discuss available options to determine the best treatment for their individual needs.
Learn To Differentiate Albuterol vs Symbicort Today
Albuterol vs Symbicort is a vital medication for treating various lung and breathing conditions. While both are effective, they differ in composition, effectiveness, and side effects. Seek medical advice before deciding which medication is right for them.
Ready to take control of your lung health? Consult your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
Did you find this article helpful? Check out the rest of our blogs!
