What to do if you miss a dose of Symbicort

Missing a dose of Symbicort (Budesonide / Formoterol) is common — most people will skip a dose at some point during a course. The right action depends on how long since the missed dose and whether Symbicort is taken event-driven or daily at 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg. The wrong action — doubling up — is not recommended.

For daily Symbicort

If Symbicort is taken daily for a chronic condition, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case skip the missed dose and continue normally. According to the prescribing information for Budesonide, Formoterol, two doses should never be taken close together to "make up" for a miss.

For event-driven Symbicort

If Symbicort is used as needed (not on a fixed schedule), there is no "missed dose" in the conventional sense — simply take the planned dose when needed and observe the recommended gap before re-dosing. Budesonide reduces chronic airway inflammation through glucocorticoid receptor activation, decreasing inflammatory cell recruitment and cytokine release.

Frequently asked questions

Should I double the dose if I missed Symbicort? ▾

No. Doubling doses of Symbicort to compensate is not recommended at any 80/4.5 mcg, 160/4.5 mcg, 200/6 mcg, 400/12 mcg strength and increases the risk of side effects without improving efficacy. Take the next scheduled dose normally.

How many missed doses are too many? ▾

Occasional missed doses of Symbicort are usually inconsequential. Repeated missed doses can compromise the therapeutic effect — for chronic conditions like those treated with Respiratory Medications, consistent dosing matters. If adherence is hard, discuss reminders, simpler schedules or alternative formulations with the prescriber.

More on Symbicort

The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.