budesonide + formoterol + prednisone (AstraZeneca)

This combination therapy regimen consists of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), a long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist (LABA), and an oral corticosteroid (OCS). Specifically, in the context of the clinical research led by Rafael Stelmach, the regimen utilizes a fixed-dose combination of budesonide and formoterol (often administered via a single inhaler for both maintenance and reliever therapy) supplemented with oral prednisone. Budesonide and prednisone are synthetic glucocorticoids that exert anti-inflammatory effects by binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, thereby inhibiting the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing airway inflammation. Formoterol is a potent, long-acting beta2-adrenoceptor agonist that induces bronchodilation by relaxing airway smooth muscle. This triple-therapy approach is primarily employed in the management of severe or difficult-to-control asthma to achieve symptom control, improve lung function, and reduce the frequency of exacerbations in patients who remain symptomatic despite high-dose inhaled therapies.

Brand names

SymbicortDeltasoneRayos

Other names

inhaled corticosteroid + LABA + oral corticosteroidICS + LABA + OCSbudesonide/formoterol + prednisone