• The primary objective is to show that Symbicort pMDI 40/2.25 μg two actuations b.i.d is more efficacious than Pulmicort Turbuhaler 100 μg one inhalation b.i.d. over a 6-week treatment period.
  

• Secondary objectives are to compare the efficacy of Symbicort pMDI 40/2.25 μg two actuations b.i.d with that of Symbicort Turbuhaler 80/4.5 μg one inhalation b.i.d and to investigate the safety profile of Symbicort pMDI 40/2.25 μg two actuations b.i.d,
  

Inclusion Criteria:

• · · Asthma clinically diagnosed since at least 6 months.
• Lung function values measured ≥ 50% and ≤ 90% of predicted normal.
• Patients with reversible airway obstruction Daily use of inhaled steroids (any brand) for >3 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

• · Use of oral, rectal or parenteral steroids within 30 days prior to start of study.
• Respiratory infection affecting the asthma, as judged by the investigator, within 30 days prior to start of randomised treatment.

Any significant disease or disorder which, in the opinion of the investigator, may either put the patient at risk because of participation in the study, or may influence the results of the study or the patient's ability to participate in the study.