What is Airsupra? Uses, warnings & side effects

Medically reviewed by Josephine Bawab, Pharm.D.
Licensed Pharmacist
Updated Dec 18, 2025  •  Published Sep 29, 2023
Datos Verificados

AIRSUPRA is the first FDA-approved rescue inhaler that prevents asthma attacks and treats asthma symptoms as needed. It is made up of a combination of albuterol (a short-acting beta-2 agonist) and budesonide (a corticosteroid). If a paradoxical bronchospasm (worsening of breathing or increased wheezing) or hypersensitivity reaction occurs, stop using AIRSUPRA and seek medical help. 

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Airsupra overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • AIRSUPRA

Generic Names:

  • Albuterol-budesonide (not available for sale as a generic medication)

Uses:

Forms:

  • Inhalation aerosol

How it’s taken:

  • Inhaled by mouth

What is Airsupra used for?

AIRSUPRA is approved for adults ages 18 years and older. It should be used as needed to prevent asthma attacks and treat asthma symptoms. It should not replace maintenance medication for asthma.

Key takeaways

  • AIRSUPRA should not replace maintenance asthma treatments. Do not stop taking any other maintenance medications without speaking to your healthcare provider.

  • Take AIRSUPRA as prescribed. Do not take more than 12 inhalations per day because it could be fatal.

  • Before starting AIRSUPRA, tell your healthcare provider about all medical conditions that you have, any other medications that you take, and any infections that you may have or be at risk of getting.

  • When you first use your AIRSUPRA inhaler, write a use-by date on the actuator label with permanent ink. The use-by date should be 12 months after opening the foil pouch.

  • If possible, rinse your mouth with water after an AIRSUPRA dose and spit it out in order to reduce the risk of getting a fungal infection. Do not swallow the water.

What form(s) does Airsupra come in?

  • Inhalation aerosol: 

    • 10.7 gm of albuterol 90 and budesonide 80 mcg per actuation

What are common Airsupra dosages?

  • 2 inhalations as needed

  • Do not exceed 12 inhalations in 24 hours

Airsupra images - What does Airsupra look like?

  • Airsupra
    10.7gm of 90-80mcg/act (120 inhalations) inhaler

How to take Airsupra

  • Consult a healthcare professional to learn how to use the inhaler correctly. Read all of the instructions before using it for the first time. 

  • Use AIRSUPRA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to use it. 

  • Do not use AIRSUPRA more often than prescribed (no more than 12 puffs within a 24-hour period).

  • Do not change or stop other asthma medications or inhalers without consulting your healthcare provider.

What to do if you miss a dose of Airsupra

  • AIRSUPRA is not intended to be used daily or as a maintenance medication, so there are no adverse events related to a missed dose. Use AIRSUPRA on an as-needed basis.

Airsupra contraindications - Who shouldn't take Airsupra?

  • Do not use AIRSUPRA if you are allergic to its ingredients (albuterol sulfate, budesonide, or inactive ingredients).

  • AIRSUPRA is only approved for adults ages 18 years and older.

Airsupra warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions before using AIRSUPRA:

    • Heart problems

    • High blood pressure

    • Seizures

    • Thyroid problems

    • Diabetes

    • Low potassium levels

    • Immune system problems

    • Tuberculosis of the respiratory tract (current or previous infection)

    • Any untreated infection (including viral, bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or herpes simplex infection of the eye)

    • Exposure to chickenpox or measles or if you have not been vaccinated against these diseases

    • Weak bones or risk factors for weak bones

    • Eye problems (increased pressure, glaucoma, cataracts)

    • Liver problems

    • Pregnant or planning to become pregnant

    • Breastfeeding

Airsupra interactions & what to avoid when taking Airsupra

  • Tell your doctor if you take any of the following medications before using AIRSUPRA:

    • CYP3A4 inhibitors

    • Other inhaled medicines

    • Other asthma medicines

    • Beta blockers

    • Diuretics

    • Digoxin

    • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

    • Tricyclic antidepressants

Airsupra side effects - How does Airsupra make you feel?

Report any side effects that are bothersome or will not go away to your healthcare provider. Make sure to report if your breathing problems get worse, you need to use AIRSUPRA more often than usual, or AIRSUPRA does not work as well to relieve your asthma as it did before. Seek medical help right away if you experience paradoxical bronchospasm or a severe allergic reaction after taking a dose of AIRSUPRA.

Serious side effects:

  • Worsening trouble breathing, coughing, and wheezing (paradoxical bronchospasm)

  • Fast heart rate

  • Increased blood pressure

  • Low levels of potassium (hypokalemia)

  • Weakened immune system and increased chance of infection

  • Oral thrush

  • Adrenal insufficiency

  • Osteoporosis

  • Eye problems, such as glaucoma and cataracts

Less serious side effects:

  • Headache

  • Cough

  • Hoarseness

Sources:

Airsupra News & Research

How Much Does Airsupra Cost? Ways to save on this rescue inhaler

Best medicine for an asthma cough: Pharmacist recommendations

How much do inhalers cost?

Medically reviewed by Josephine Bawab, Pharm.D.
Licensed Pharmacist

Josephine Bawab, Pharm.D., graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Pharmacy. She began working in community pharmacy in 2012 and has worked for multiple chain pharmacies since then. She is passionate about helping patients and precepting students. She currently works and resides in Virginia, where she is just a few minutes away from the beach.

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