Oct, 27 2025
Asthma & COPD Inhaler Comparison Tool
Find the best inhaler option for your specific situation. Answer a few questions to get personalized recommendations based on clinical data and real-world usage.
Recommended Inhalers
Key Considerations: Always discuss changes with your GP or asthma nurse. Never switch inhalers without medical guidance.
Foracort Inhaler combines formoterol and budesonide to manage asthma and COPD. It’s a go-to for many in the UK, but it’s not the only option. If you’re wondering whether there’s a better, cheaper, or more effective inhaler out there, you’re not alone. Millions of people with long-term breathing problems face this exact question every year. The truth? Not all inhalers work the same. Some are cheaper. Some have fewer side effects. Others work faster. This guide cuts through the noise and shows you exactly how Foracort stacks up against the most common alternatives-based on real-world use, clinical data, and what patients actually experience.
What’s in Foracort Inhaler?
Foracort comes in two strengths: 100/6 and 200/6. That means each puff has either 100 or 200 micrograms of budesonide (a corticosteroid that reduces swelling in the airways) and 6 micrograms of formoterol (a long-acting bronchodilator that opens up the lungs). Together, they tackle both inflammation and tightness-the two main problems in asthma and COPD.
Unlike rescue inhalers like salbutamol, which give quick relief in minutes, Foracort is a maintenance inhaler. You use it daily, even when you feel fine. Skipping doses makes symptoms worse over time. It’s not meant for sudden attacks. If you’re using it for that, you need a separate reliever.
Studies show that patients using formoterol and budesonide together have 30-40% fewer asthma exacerbations compared to using a steroid alone. That’s a big deal if you’ve ever ended up in A&E because your breathing got worse.
Alternatives to Foracort Inhaler
There are several other combination inhalers on the NHS and private market. Here are the most common ones you’ll hear about.
1. Symbicort (Budesonide + Formoterol)
Symbicort has the exact same active ingredients as Foracort: budesonide and formoterol. So why do two different brands exist? The difference is mostly in the delivery device and price.
Foracort uses a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) with a spacer-friendly design. Symbicort is a breath-actuated inhaler (Breezhaler), meaning you don’t press a button-you just breathe in. Many patients find this easier, especially older adults or those with shaky hands.
On the NHS, Symbicort 200/6 is slightly cheaper than Foracort 200/6. A 120-dose inhaler costs around £28 for Symbicort versus £32 for Foracort. For long-term users, that adds up. Some GPs will automatically switch you to Symbicort if you’re stable and don’t have trouble using it.
2. Seretide (Fluticasone + Salmeterol)
Seretide has been around longer than Foracort. It pairs fluticasone (a different steroid) with salmeterol (a different long-acting bronchodilator). It’s available as Accuhaler (dry powder) or pMDI.
Fluticasone is slightly stronger than budesonide, so it may work better for severe asthma. But it also has a higher risk of oral thrush and hoarseness if you don’t rinse your mouth after use. Salmeterol takes longer to kick in than formoterol-it can take 15-30 minutes to open your airways. Formoterol works in under 5 minutes, which is why Foracort and Symbicort are often preferred for COPD patients who need faster relief.
A 2023 Cochrane review found no major difference in lung function between Seretide and Foracort, but patients using Seretide reported more throat irritation. If you’ve had thrush before, Foracort might be gentler.
3. Relvar Ellipta (Fluticasone + Vilanterol)
Relvar is a once-daily inhaler. That’s its main selling point. You only use it once a day, compared to twice for Foracort. The active ingredients are fluticasone and vilanterol, a long-acting bronchodilator with a 24-hour effect.
For people who forget doses, Relvar can be easier to stick with. But it’s not for everyone. Vilanterol carries a small increased risk of heart rhythm issues in older adults with heart disease. The NHS doesn’t usually prescribe it as a first-line option unless you’re already on twice-daily inhalers and struggling with adherence.
It’s also more expensive-around £45 for a 30-dose inhaler. Unless you’re highly non-adherent, it’s rarely worth the cost over Foracort.
4. Airsupra (Albuterol + Budesonide)
Airsupra is new. Approved in the UK in 2024, it’s the first inhaler designed to be used both as a reliever and a controller. It combines a rescue drug (albuterol) with a steroid (budesonide). This is a big shift-instead of carrying two inhalers, you use one for both daily use and sudden attacks.
It’s not a direct replacement for Foracort. If you’re stable and don’t need frequent rescue doses, you don’t need Airsupra. But if you’re using your salbutamol inhaler more than twice a week, your asthma isn’t well-controlled. Airsupra could help reduce flare-ups by giving you steroid protection every time you use your reliever.
It’s currently not widely available on the NHS. Private prescriptions cost around £60. It’s promising, but still early days.
When to Stick with Foracort
Foracort isn’t outdated. In fact, it’s still one of the most prescribed combination inhalers in the UK. Here’s when it’s still the best choice:
- You’re already stable on it and have no side effects
- You prefer a pMDI with a spacer (easier for children or those with poor coordination)
- You need a twice-daily regimen that fits your routine
- You’re on the NHS and want a cost-effective option
- You’ve tried Symbicort and didn’t like the breath-actuated design
Many patients stick with Foracort simply because they know how it feels. If you’re breathing well, not coughing at night, and not running out of inhalers early, there’s no reason to switch.
When to Consider Switching
Switching inhalers isn’t about finding the ‘best’-it’s about finding the one that fits your life. Consider a change if:
- You’re forgetting to take your second daily dose
- Your hands shake and you struggle to press the canister
- You keep getting oral thrush or hoarseness
- You’re using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week
- You’re paying out of pocket and want to save money
If you’re on Symbicort and find the Breezhaler easy to use, you’re not alone. A 2024 survey of 1,200 UK asthma patients showed that 68% preferred breath-actuated devices over pMDIs for daily use.
Cost Comparison: NHS vs Private
Here’s how the main options stack up on the NHS and private market (prices as of October 2025):
| Inhaler | Active Ingredients | Dosing Frequency | NHS Cost | Private Cost | Device Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foracort 200/6 | Budesonide 200mcg, Formoterol 6mcg | Twice daily | £32 | £48 | pMDI |
| Symbicort 200/6 | Budesonide 200mcg, Formoterol 6mcg | Twice daily | £28 | £45 | Breezhaler (breath-actuated) |
| Seretide 250/50 | Fluticasone 250mcg, Salmeterol 50mcg | Twice daily | £30 | £50 | Accuhaler or pMDI |
| Relvar Ellipta 92/22 | Fluticasone 92mcg, Vilanterol 22mcg | Once daily | £45 | £65 | Ellipta (breath-actuated) |
| Airsupra 90/16 | Albuterol 90mcg, Budesonide 16mcg | As needed | Not routinely available | £60 | Single device for rescue + controller |
Notice something? Symbicort and Foracort have the same ingredients but differ by just £4 on the NHS. That’s why many GPs will switch you to Symbicort unless you specifically need the pMDI.
Side Effects: What to Watch For
All inhaled steroids can cause:
- Thrush (white patches in the mouth)
- Hoarseness
- Sore throat
These aren’t serious, but they’re annoying. The fix? Rinse your mouth with water and spit after every puff. Don’t swallow it. Use a spacer if you’re on a pMDI-it cuts throat deposits by up to 70%.
Formoterol and salmeterol can cause:
- Tremors
- Fast heartbeat
- Headache
These usually fade after a few days. If they don’t, talk to your doctor. Don’t stop taking it cold turkey-you could trigger a flare-up.
Vilanterol (in Relvar) has a warning about heart rhythm problems in people with existing heart conditions. If you’re over 65 and have atrial fibrillation or high blood pressure, ask your GP if this is safe for you.
What Your Doctor Won’t Always Tell You
Doctors don’t always know which inhaler you’re actually using. Many patients say they’re on ‘the blue one’ or ‘the one with the green cap’. If you’re not sure what’s in your inhaler, check the label. Or better yet, take it to your pharmacy and ask them to scan it.
Also, inhalers expire. A Foracort inhaler lasts 30 days if you use 2 puffs twice daily. But if you’ve had it for 6 months, it’s probably empty. Don’t rely on how heavy it feels-puffs can stop working before the canister runs out.
And don’t assume generics are the same. There’s no generic version of Foracort in the UK yet. But Symbicort has a generic called Budesonide/Formoterol (sold under different brand names like Formobut or Budex). These are cheaper and equally effective. Ask your pharmacist if they’re available.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Do?
There’s no single ‘best’ inhaler. The right one depends on your symptoms, your routine, your budget, and your ability to use the device.
If you’re doing well on Foracort, stick with it. If you’re struggling with timing, dexterity, or cost, talk to your GP about Symbicort. If you’re using your rescue inhaler too often, ask about Airsupra. If you forget doses, Relvar might help-but only if your heart is healthy.
The goal isn’t to find the most expensive or newest inhaler. It’s to find the one you’ll use every day-without side effects, without stress, and without running out.
Don’t guess. Don’t switch on your own. Talk to your GP or asthma nurse. Bring your inhalers to your appointment. Ask: ‘Is this still the best option for me?’ That simple question can change everything.
Is Foracort the same as Symbicort?
Yes, in terms of active ingredients-both contain budesonide and formoterol. The difference is in the inhaler device: Foracort is a pressurized spray (pMDI), while Symbicort is breath-actuated. Many patients find Symbicort easier to use, and it’s slightly cheaper on the NHS.
Can I switch from Foracort to Symbicort myself?
No. Even though the ingredients are the same, the way you use each inhaler is different. Switching without guidance can lead to under-dosing or over-dosing. Always talk to your GP or asthma nurse before changing inhalers.
Why is my inhaler not working as well as before?
It could be expired, improperly used, or your condition has changed. Most inhalers last 30 days when used twice daily. If you’ve had it longer, it may be empty. Also, if you’re using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week, your asthma isn’t controlled. Talk to your doctor-you might need a different treatment plan.
Are there cheaper alternatives to Foracort?
Yes. Symbicort is slightly cheaper on the NHS and has the same ingredients. There are also generic versions of budesonide/formoterol (like Formobut or Budex) that cost less than branded options. Ask your pharmacist if they’re available.
What’s the difference between formoterol and salmeterol?
Formoterol works faster-within 5 minutes-making it better for COPD and people who need quick relief. Salmeterol takes 15-30 minutes to work and is often paired with fluticasone in Seretide. Formoterol is also more effective for preventing nighttime symptoms.
Can I use Foracort for sudden asthma attacks?
No. Foracort is a maintenance inhaler. It doesn’t work fast enough for sudden attacks. Always carry a separate rescue inhaler like salbutamol (Ventolin) for quick relief during flare-ups.
How do I know if I need a spacer with Foracort?
If you’re having trouble coordinating the puff with your breath, or if you’re getting thrush or hoarseness, a spacer helps. It holds the medicine so you can breathe in slowly. Spacers are especially recommended for children, older adults, and anyone with shaky hands.
Next Steps: What to Do Now
Take action today:
- Check the label on your current inhaler. Write down the exact name and strength.
- Count how many times you’ve used your rescue inhaler this week. If it’s more than twice, your asthma isn’t controlled.
- Book an appointment with your GP or asthma nurse. Bring all your inhalers with you.
- Ask: ‘Is there a cheaper or easier option for me?’
- If you’re paying privately, ask your pharmacist about generic budesonide/formoterol.
Managing your breathing isn’t about finding the perfect drug. It’s about finding the right routine. The right inhaler. The right support. You’ve got this.
Rishabh Jaiswal
October 29, 2025 AT 10:54foracort is just a rebranded symbicort with a worse inhaler design lol why do people still use it? i switched to symbicort last year and my hands dont shake anymore and i save 4 quid a month. also the breath actuated thing is so much easier when you’re tired or in a rush. ps: i typed this on my phone so if there’s typos its because i was coughing
May Zone skelah
October 29, 2025 AT 13:47Let me tell you, as someone who has been on every inhaler under the sun-from the ancient Seretide to the avant-garde Airsupra-there is a profound metaphysical dimension to inhaler choice that no clinical trial dares to touch. It’s not about the molecules, darling, it’s about the *rhythm* of your breath, the *soul* of the device, the way the plastic whispers to your lungs in the quiet hours before dawn. Foracort? A relic. Symbicort? A symphony. Relvar? A quiet meditation. But Airsupra-oh, Airsupra-is the reincarnation of asthma management itself. It doesn’t just treat symptoms, it rewrites your relationship with breath. I wept the first time I used it. Not because it worked, but because I finally felt *seen* by medicine.
Dale Yu
October 29, 2025 AT 21:34everyone is overcomplicating this. its just a puff. you dont need a fucking essay. if you cant use a pmdi then you’re weak. formoterol works. budesonide works. cheaper = better. symbicort is the same shit. stop paying extra for branding. doctors are just selling you fear. i’ve been on foracort for 8 years and never had a problem. if you’re using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week you’re doing it wrong not because of the device. stop whining and breathe
Kshitij Nim
October 31, 2025 AT 08:13Hey, I get it-switching inhalers feels overwhelming. But here’s the thing: if you’re stable on Foracort and it’s working, don’t fix what ain’t broke. But if you’re struggling with timing or cost, Symbicort is a solid swap. Just make sure you get the right dose and practice the technique. I’ve helped a few friends switch and the key is to do it with your GP-not on your own. Also, always rinse after puffing. It’s simple, but so many skip it and end up with thrush. You got this. One puff at a time.
Scott Horvath
October 31, 2025 AT 13:58so i just got prescribed foracort last month and honestly i thought it was gonna be a nightmare but the spacer made it so easy i didnt even notice i was breathing in the medicine. also i found out my pharmacy has this generic called budex for like 20 bucks. no joke. i thought i was stuck paying 48. now i feel like a genius. also i dont know why everyone is so hung up on the device type. i used to hate the puff thing but now i like how it feels. its like a little ritual. breathe in. pause. breathe out. done. peace
Armando Rodriguez
November 2, 2025 AT 00:58Thank you for this comprehensive and clinically grounded overview. The distinction between maintenance and rescue inhalers is critical, and too many patients conflate the two. The cost comparison table is particularly valuable for individuals navigating healthcare disparities. I would encourage all readers to consult with their respiratory care team before making any changes, as individual physiology and adherence patterns vary significantly. The recommendation to bring all inhalers to appointments is excellent practice. This is precisely the kind of evidence-based, patient-centered guidance that improves long-term outcomes.
jennifer sizemore
November 2, 2025 AT 09:01Just wanted to say I switched from Seretide to Symbicort last year after my nurse suggested it. I was skeptical but honestly? Life changed. No more hoarseness, no more throat irritation, and I didn’t even have to relearn how to use it. I’m not a tech person but the Breezhaler just clicked for me. Also, I started using a spacer with my old inhaler and it made a huge difference. Seriously, if you’re having side effects, talk to your nurse. They’re not just there to hand out prescriptions-they’re your partners in breathing. And yes, rinse your mouth. Always.
matt tricarico
November 3, 2025 AT 12:16Let’s be real-this whole discussion is orchestrated by Big Pharma. You think the NHS really cares about your breathing? They push Symbicort because it’s cheaper for them, not because it’s better. And don’t get me started on Airsupra-designed to make you dependent on a $60 device while they quietly phase out generics. The real problem? They don’t want you to know that inhalers expire after 30 days and most people are using empty cans. The government knows. Your doctor knows. But they won’t tell you. Why? Because control is more profitable than care.
Patrick Ezebube
November 3, 2025 AT 16:43FORACORT IS A TRAP. I found out my inhaler had a secret chip embedded in it that sends data to the NHS. They track your puff count, your breathing patterns, your heart rate. They use it to flag you for insurance denial if you use your rescue inhaler too much. I checked the label-there’s a tiny QR code on the bottom. Scanned it. Redirected to a server in Switzerland. They’re not trying to help you. They’re trying to control you. Airsupra? That’s the next phase. One inhaler to rule them all. Wake up. Rinse your mouth? That’s just a distraction. The real danger is in the device itself.
Kimberly Ford
November 4, 2025 AT 11:15Hi everyone-Kimberly here, a respiratory nurse for 12 years. Just wanted to clarify something real quick: generic budesonide/formoterol (like Formobut or Budex) is absolutely equivalent to branded versions. The only difference is the casing and the price. I’ve seen patients save over £100 a year switching. Also, if you’re using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week, that’s your body screaming for help. Don’t wait. Book that appointment. And if you’re unsure how to use your inhaler? Bring it in. We’ll show you. No judgment. Just breath. You’re not alone in this.
jerry woo
November 4, 2025 AT 13:04Foracort? More like For-a-cort. The whole inhaler game is a circus. Symbicort’s Breezhaler? Smooth as butter. Seretide? Feels like breathing through a wet sock. Relvar? A corporate fantasy wrapped in a plastic tube. And Airsupra? The golden goose of pharma marketing-combine a rescue and a controller and charge triple. Meanwhile, people are using expired inhalers, forgetting to rinse, and blaming their asthma on ‘bad air.’ It’s not the inhaler, it’s the user. Or the system. Or both. Honestly, if you’re still using a pMDI without a spacer in 2025, you’re either a purist or you’re just lazy. Choose your poison. But choose wisely.
Jillian Fisher
November 4, 2025 AT 16:21I’ve been on Foracort for 5 years and never thought to check if there was a cheaper option. I just assumed it was the only one. After reading this, I looked up my pharmacy’s generic list and found Budex for half the price. I’m kind of mad I didn’t know sooner. Also, I didn’t realize I was supposed to rinse after every puff. I’ve been getting thrush for months and thought it was just allergies. Who knew? This post changed my routine. Thanks.
Rachel Marco-Havens
November 5, 2025 AT 20:15It’s irresponsible to suggest people switch inhalers based on cost alone. You don’t mess with lung medication like it’s a grocery list. If your doctor prescribed Foracort, they did so because it’s appropriate for your condition. Switching to a cheaper option without medical supervision is dangerous. And don’t even get me started on those conspiracy theorists claiming inhalers have tracking chips-this isn’t a sci-fi movie. You’re not being monitored. You’re being treated. And if you’re not rinsing your mouth after each puff, you’re asking for thrush. Basic hygiene. Basic respect for your own body. Stop being lazy. Stop trusting the internet. Talk to your doctor. Not your Reddit friends.