Findings released recently at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) congress proved that one inhaler could be used both for prevention and for quick relief of asthma symptoms. Apparently a combination drug (Symbicort SMART) made up of budesonide (brand name: Pulmicort in the U.S.) and formoterol (brand name: Foradil in the U.S.) was found to be highly effective in reducing exacerbations and in improving daily asthma control in patients who had uncontrolled / poorly controlled asthma.

This data was based on analysis of the COMPASS study. The rate of exacerbations (asthma attacks) was reduced by as much as 57% over other combination drugs, such as Advair. Patients on this drug also needed to visit the hospital and their doctors less often for emergencies related to asthma.

With this combination asthma medication, you treat your underlying inflammation in your airways with every use of the inhaler, whether doing so for maintenance or for symptom relief. Other study findings supported the COMPASS findings and also revealed no significant risk for troublesome side effects.

CLARIFICATION: For my U.S. readers, it's important to note that the type and use of Symbicort referred to above (i.e., the SMART regimen) is not available for use in the U.S., only outside of the U.S. In the United States, SYMBICORT (budesonide/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) is a rapid-acting, twice-daily, inhaled combination therapy containing budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, and formoterol, a long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA), which is indicated for the long-term maintenance treatment of asthma in patients 12 years of age and older. This combination is formulated in a pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI).

It's important to note that asthma treatment is often a matter of trial and error until you find the best treatment approach for your particular needs. And new asthma treatments are coming on to the market all of the time. So, if you're having trouble reaching consistent control of your asthma symptoms, talk with your doctor and explore whether your asthma action plan and asthma treatment plan need revision.