Is Breyna a steroid?

Breyna (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) inhalation aerosol is the first generic version of Symbicort. The FDA approved Breyna for asthma in patients ≥ 6 years and for maintenance and reducing exacerbations in COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

One component, budesonide, is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces lung inflammation. The other, formoterol, is a long-acting beta agonist that relaxes airway muscles. Breyna is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used for sudden breathing problems.

Side effects of Breyna

• Cold symptoms (sore throat, headache, cough)
• Upper respiratory infection
• Sinus pain and swelling
• Back pain
• Oral thrush
• Throat irritation

Serious side effects include:

• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, facial swelling, breathing problems)
• Bronchospasm (sudden breathing difficulties)
• Reduced bone density and osteoporosis
• Decreased growth in children
• Heart problems (chest pain, fast heart rate, high blood pressure)
• High blood sugar (thirst, frequent urination, dry mouth)
• Low potassium (cramps, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness)
• Eye problems (worsening glaucoma or cataracts)
• Adrenal insufficiency (fatigue, nausea, low blood pressure)
• Increased infection risk (avoid herpes, chickenpox, measles exposure)

Drug interactions

Tell your provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements. Interactions may occur with:

• Other LABA inhalers (arformoterol, indacaterol, olodaterol, salmeterol, vilanterol)
• Other steroids (inhaled or oral)
• MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants
• Potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole)
• Beta-blockers
• Diuretics

Who should not use Breyna?

• Allergy to any ingredient
• Current asthma attack or severe COPD exacerbation

Doses available

• 80 mcg budesonide / 4.5 mcg formoterol (asthma only)
• 160 mcg budesonide / 4.5 mcg formoterol (asthma and COPD)

Storage

Store at 68–77 °F (20–25 °C) with the mouthpiece down. Do not puncture or expose to flame.

Comparison to Symbicort

Breyna is the first generic Symbicort, containing the same active ingredients and approved for the same conditions.

Onset of action

Breyna is a maintenance inhaler. It is not for acute relief but begins improving symptoms within 15 minutes, with full effect over weeks.

Sources

• BREYNA – budesonide and formoterol fumarate aerosol. Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. DailyMed. Last updated 9/2020. Accessed Apr 3, 2025.