Is Symbicort still in shortage in 2026? Get the latest update on Symbicort availability, pricing, generic options, and what patients can do right now.
If you depend on Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol) to manage your asthma or COPD, you've probably dealt with the frustration of going to the pharmacy and finding it out of stock. Supply issues with Symbicort have been an ongoing problem since 2023, and patients understandably want to know: is the shortage over?
In this update, we'll cover the current status of Symbicort availability, why the supply problems happened, what it costs in 2026, and what you can do to make sure you don't go without your inhaler.
As of early 2026, Symbicort is not listed as a critical shortage by the FDA's Drug Shortage Database. However, that doesn't mean it's easy to find everywhere. Many patients continue to report spotty availability, especially for certain strengths and at certain pharmacy chains.
The situation has improved compared to 2023-2024, when supply disruptions were more widespread. The introduction of generic budesonide/formoterol inhalers has helped ease demand pressure on brand-name Symbicort. But if your local pharmacy still can't get it, you're not alone — and there are steps you can take.
Several factors have contributed to the supply challenges:
For a deeper look at these factors, read our article on why Symbicort is so hard to find.
Cost remains a significant issue for many patients. Here's a general pricing overview:
If cost is a barrier, check out our full guide on how to save money on Symbicort, including manufacturer coupons, discount cards, and patient assistance programs.
The good news is that patients have more options now than they did a few years ago:
Generic budesonide/formoterol inhalers, including the brand Breyna, are now available. These contain the same active ingredients as Symbicort and are FDA-approved for the same uses. They're typically cheaper and increasingly well-stocked at pharmacies.
If neither brand-name Symbicort nor its generic is available, other ICS/LABA inhalers may work for you. Options include Advair (Fluticasone/Salmeterol), Breo Ellipta (Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol), and Dulera (Mometasone/Formoterol).
AstraZeneca offers a Symbicort savings card for commercially insured patients, potentially reducing your copay to $0. The AZ&Me Patient Assistance Program provides free medication to qualifying uninsured patients. Call 1-800-292-6363 for details.
If you need Symbicort today, here's your action plan:
For more detailed strategies, see our guide on how to find Symbicort in stock near you.
The Symbicort shortage situation in 2026 is better than it was, but not completely resolved. Some patients still face availability challenges depending on their location and pharmacy. The introduction of generics has been a major positive development, giving patients more options and potentially lower costs.
Stay proactive: refill your prescription early, use tools like Medfinder to track availability, explore generic options, and keep an open line of communication with your doctor. Your breathing shouldn't depend on luck — use every resource available to stay ahead.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
Try Medfinder Concierge FreeMedfinder's mission is to ensure every patient gets access to the medications they need. We believe this begins with trustworthy information. Our core values guide everything we do, including the standards that shape the accuracy, transparency, and quality of our content. We’re committed to delivering information that’s evidence-based, regularly updated, and easy to understand. For more details on our editorial process, see here.
%2C%20Color%3DOriginal.png)
