Key takeaways
Airsupra (albuterol / budesonide) and albuterol (ProAir HFA, ProAir RespiClick, ProAir Digihaler, Ventolin HFA, Proventil HFA) are both inhalers used to treat asthma symptoms, but they have some key differences. Airsupra combines a short-acting beta agonist (SABA) with a corticosteroid, while albuterol inhalers contain only a SABA. Airsupra is specifically FDA-approved for preventing and treating asthma flare-ups in adults, whereas albuterol inhalers are approved for treating or preventing wheezing and shortness of breath in people aged 4 and older, including exercise-induced asthma. Airsupra is a combination inhaler with a typical dose of 2 inhalations as needed, not exceeding 12 inhalations in 24 hours, while albuterol inhalers are used every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Airsupra is not available in a generic form, whereas albuterol inhalers are available as generics. Common side effects of Airsupra include headache and thrush, while albuterol inhalers may cause sore throat and throat irritation. Both medications can affect heart rate and blood pressure, but Airsupra also carries risks of bone loss and infections due to its corticosteroid component.
