Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Dupixent (dupilumab) and Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) are both prescription medications used to treat different inflammatory conditions, but they work in different ways and are used for different conditions. Dupixent is a biologic medication, specifically a monoclonal antibody, that is injected under the skin to treat conditions like eczema, asthma, and eosinophilic esophagitis. It works by blocking proteins that cause inflammation. Symbicort, on the other hand, is an inhaler that combines a corticosteroid (budesonide) and a long-acting beta-agonist (formoterol) to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It reduces inflammation in the lungs and relaxes airway muscles to make breathing easier. Dupixent is typically injected every other week or monthly, while Symbicort is inhaled twice daily. Dupixent does not have a generic version available, whereas Symbicort does. Common side effects of Dupixent include injection site reactions and eye inflammation, while Symbicort can cause symptoms like a common cold and thrush in the mouth.
Dupixent (dupilumab)
Symbicort (budesonide / formoterol)
Dupixent (dupilumab)
Symbicort (budesonide / formoterol)
Summary of Dupixent vs. Symbicort
Summary for Interleukin antagonist
Prescription only
Dupixent (dupilumab) is an injection that helps treat certain inflammatory conditions. This includes eczema, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), among others. It's a biologic medication known as an interleukin antagonist that lowers inflammation. Dupixent (dupilumab) comes as prefilled pens and prefilled syringes. It's injected under the skin of the belly or thighs (or in the back of the upper arm with someone's help). The dosing schedule depends on the condition you have, your age, and your weight. It's injected either every week, every 2 weeks, or every 4 weeks. Side effects include injection site reactions and eye problems.
Summary for IC / LABA
Prescription only
Symbicort (budesonide / formoterol) is a combination inhaler containing a steroid (budesonide) and a long-acting beta-agonist (formoterol). Both medications work together to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The typical dose for Symbicort (budesonide / formoterol) is 2 inhalations by mouth twice a day, about 12 hours apart. Common side effects include symptoms of common cold, such as stuffy nose and cough. It's available in two different strengths, both with generic versions.
Indications of Dupixent vs. Symbicort
Indications for
•Moderate-to-severe eczema - for people 6 months and older
•Moderate-to-severe asthma - add-on maintenance for people 6 years and older