Key takeaways
Breztri Aerosphere (budesonide/glycopyrrolate/formoterol) and Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) are both inhalers used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They both contain budesonide, a corticosteroid, and formoterol, a long-acting beta agonist (LABA), which help reduce inflammation and open airways. However, Breztri Aerosphere also includes glycopyrrolate, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), which further helps relax airway muscles. Breztri is only approved for COPD, while Symbicort is approved for both COPD and asthma. Breztri is taken as two inhalations twice daily, and it is only available as a brand-name medication. Symbicort also requires two inhalations twice daily but is available in generic form. Common side effects of Breztri include upper respiratory tract infections and pneumonia, while Symbicort may cause cold symptoms and thrush. Both medications should not be used for sudden breathing problems, and you should have a rescue inhaler like albuterol on hand for such situations.
