Who is this for?
What is this drug?
This is a combination inhaler that contains two medicines — budesonide (which reduces swelling and inflammation in your airways) and formoterol (which relaxes the muscles around your airways to help you breathe easier). Together, they open up your air passages and keep them calm so you can breathe better.
What is it used for?
Asthmachronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD — a long-term breathing problem common in smokers)wheezingshortness of breathtightness in the chest
Browse by condition
How it works
Binds to glucocorticoid receptors in the airways, suppressing inflammatory mediators and reducing airway inflammation, while simultaneously activating beta-2 adrenergic receptors to promote smooth muscle relaxation and bronchodilation.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
How to take this drug
For adults, the usual dose is 1 to 2 puffs twice a day (morning and evening). Your doctor will decide the right strength for you. Inhale the medicine deeply into your lungs, then hold your breath for about 10 seconds. Rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent mouth infections — spit the water out, don't swallow it.
What if I Miss a Dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
What to watch out for
Always buy from a licensed pharmacy — inhalers sold by roadside vendors or in open markets may be fake, expired, or improperly stored, which can be dangerous. Do not stop using this inhaler suddenly because you feel better — it is a controller medicine meant to be used regularly as prescribed. Make sure you learn the correct inhaler technique from your pharmacist, as using it wrongly means the medicine won't reach your lungs properly.
Common Side Effects
- Sore throat or throat irritation
- headache
- mouth thrush (white patches in the mouth — rinsing your mouth after use helps prevent this)
- hoarse voice
- mild trembling or shaking of the hands
Serious Side Effects
- Fast or irregular heartbeat — go to the hospital immediately. Sudden worsening of breathing difficulty after using the inhaler — seek emergency help. Signs of serious allergic reaction like swelling of the face
- lips
- or tongue — this needs urgent medical attention.
Drug Interactions
Avoid using with beta-blocker medicines (like atenolol or propranolol used for high blood pressure or heart problems) as they can reduce how well this inhaler works. Be cautious if you are taking ketoconazole or itraconazole (antifungal medicines) as they can increase the effect of budesonide in your body. Alcohol does not directly interact, but if you have breathing problems, heavy drinking can worsen your condition.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Budesonide; with your other drugs?
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning
Consult your doctor before using this inhaler if you are pregnant or breastfeeding — your doctor will weigh the benefits against any risks to your baby, but uncontrolled asthma is also dangerous during pregnancy.
Who Should NOT Take This
- People who are allergic to budesonide
- formoterol
- or lactose (some inhalers contain lactose). This inhaler should not be used as a rescue inhaler for sudden asthma attacks — you need a separate fast-acting reliever inhaler for emergencies. People with untreated fungal
- bacterial
- or viral infections should inform their doctor before use.
How to Store
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. In Nigeria's hot weather, keep it in a cool, dry place — not inside a car or near a window. Keep the cap on the inhaler when not in use. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Brand Packaging Images
Genuine packaging for Fortide Inhaler 200 mcg + 6 mcg
Adult
Fortide Inhaler 200 mcg + 6 mcg — Reference Image
NAFDAC Number
B4-9410
Verify Your Pack
Authenticity Checklist
If your packaging looks significantly different from this image, do not use the drug and report it below.
Brand Names
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.