Ever feel frustrated that your inhaler only helps for a few hours? Dulera is a daily inhaler designed to reduce inflammation and keep airways open so you have fewer asthma flare-ups. It combines two medicines: mometasone (a steroid that lowers airway swelling) and formoterol (a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles around your airways).
Dulera is a maintenance treatment for asthma. Doctors usually prescribe it for people who need both inflammation control and long-term bronchodilation. You should not use Dulera to treat sudden breathing problems — always keep a fast-acting rescue inhaler like albuterol nearby. Dulera comes by prescription and your healthcare provider will set the dose based on age and how well your asthma is controlled.
Common doses are one or two inhalations twice a day, taken at the same times each day. Do not change the dose on your own. If your symptoms get worse, contact your doctor — increasing quick-relief inhaler use or waking at night with asthma are signs you may need a review of your treatment plan.
Shake the inhaler well, breathe out fully, then press the canister and inhale slowly. Try to hold your breath for about 5 to 10 seconds before breathing out. Rinse your mouth and spit after each use to lower the chance of oral thrush (a common side effect from inhaled steroids). Keep a written action plan and note your daily peak flow if your doctor recommends it.
Side effects can include throat irritation, hoarseness, oral thrush, headache, tremor, or palpitations. Most people tolerate Dulera well, but report any severe symptoms like rapid heartbeat, vision changes, or worsening breathing right away. Long-term steroid exposure at high doses can affect bone density and growth in children, so doctors monitor these risks during follow-up visits.
Store your inhaler at room temperature and check the dose counter if your device has one. Do not stop Dulera suddenly without talking to your provider — stopping may worsen asthma control. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your clinician.
Simple habit changes help: keep a rescue inhaler within reach, know how many doses remain, and bring your inhaler to appointments so your clinician can check technique. Good control often means fewer emergency visits and better sleep. If you want to compare Dulera with other inhalers, ask your healthcare team for a personalized review — they can match treatment choices to your symptoms and lifestyle.
Cost and access vary — check your insurance, ask the pharmacy about manufacturer savings or patient assistance programs. Some clinics offer samples, discount cards. Regular follow-ups let your clinician adjust dose and check inhaler technique. Also, get flu and COVID vaccines if advised, and quit smoking if you smoke — that improves asthma control. Keep a symptom diary for a few weeks to show your provider how Dulera is working.
Thinking about switching from Symbicort? This article lays out five solid alternatives, spotlighting each option with clear pros and cons. You'll get practical tips, interesting facts, and honest advice to help you or a loved one breathe easier—whether it’s about better asthma control or finding a more affordable inhaler. Learn the key differences and find out which option might be a better fit for daily life. No confusing jargon, just straight talk.