If your doctor prescribed Breo Ellipta but the price or side‑effects don’t sit right with you, you’re not alone. Millions look for cheaper or easier‑to‑use options every year. Below we break down why people switch and which inhalers actually work as a substitute.
Breo combines a steroid (fluticasone furoate) with a long‑acting bronchodilator (vilanterol). That combo is great for many, but the device can be bulky, the dose isn’t always flexible, and insurance plans sometimes flag it as expensive. If you’ve had trouble getting refills, felt a throat irritation, or simply want a different inhaler shape, an alternative might solve those issues.
1. Relvar Ellipta (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol) – This is basically the generic version of Breo with the same dosing schedule. It’s often covered under a lower tier, so out‑of‑pocket costs drop dramatically.
2. Advair Diskus (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol) – A well‑known combo that uses a dry‑powder inhaler instead of the Ellipta device. It’s available in several strengths, making it easier to match your exact needs.
3. Symbicort Turbohaler (budesonide/formoterol) – If you need a faster onset of relief, formoterol kicks in quicker than vilanterol. The Turbohaler is small and fits nicely in a pocket.
4. Dulera (mometasone/formoterol) – Another steroid‑bronchodilator pair that works well for kids and adults alike. Its dosage can be adjusted in half‑step increments, which some patients find helpful.
5. Anoro Ellipta (umeclidinium/vilanterol) – For those who mainly need a bronchodilator with added anticholinergic action, this option drops the steroid altogether while still using the familiar Ellipta device.
When you compare these choices, look at three things: price, inhaler type, and how quickly it eases symptoms. Most pharmacies let you try a sample before committing, so ask your pharmacist for a trial pack.
If cost is your biggest driver, check if your insurance has a preferred drug list. Generic Relvar often lands on that list, but sometimes a brand‑name inhaler like Advair gets better rebates. Call the pharmacy’s customer service line and ask about “mail‑order” discounts – they can shave 30 % off the retail price.
Side‑effects differ slightly. Fluticasone‑based inhalers may cause mouth thrush, while budesonide in Symbicort tends to be gentler on the throat. Rinse your mouth after each use and keep a spacer handy if you’re using a metered‑dose device.
Finally, don’t forget proper technique. The Ellipta inhaler has a simple “open‑and‑inhale” motion, but dry‑powder devices like Diskus need you to exhale fully away from the mouthpiece first. A quick video on YouTube or a demo at your pharmacy can prevent missed doses.
Bottom line: switching from Breo doesn’t mean you sacrifice control. Pick an alternative that fits your budget, feels comfortable in your hand, and matches how fast you want relief. Talk to your doctor about the options above, and ask for a prescription change if one looks right for you.
Trying to find effective long-term asthma control meds besides Breo Ellipta? This article explores once- and twice-daily options, including popular Symbicort substitutes. You'll get practical tips, comparative facts, and insights on which choices may fit different health needs, lifestyles, and budgets. Perfect for anyone managing persistent asthma and searching for up-to-date, human-centered advice in 2025. Get the facts that matter without medical jargon.