Alvesco

Before using ciclesonide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other corticosteroids (e.g., beclomethasone, fluticasone); or if you have any other allergies. Alvesco may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using Alvesco, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history,tuberculosis, untreated infections (such as those caused by fungus or bacteria), certain eye problems (glaucoma, cataracts, herpes infection of the eye), liver disease, adrenal gland problems (e.g., adrenal insufficiency), underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), bone loss (osteoporosis). If you have switched from a corticosteroid taken by mouth (such as prednisone tablets) to this inhaler within the past 12 months, or if you have been using Alvesco in higher-than-usual doses for a long time, it may be more difficult for your body to respond to physical stress. Therefore, before having surgery or emergency treatment, or if you get a serious illness/injury, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using Alvesco or have used a corticosteroid taken by mouth within the past 12 months. Tell your doctor right away if you develop unusual/extreme tiredness or weight loss. Carry a warning card or medical ID bracelet that says you use (or have used) corticosteroid medications. Avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles infection while taking Alvesco unless you have previously had these infections (e.g., in childhood). If you are exposed to one of these infections and you have not previously had it, seek immediate medical attention. Alvesco may mask signs of infection or put you at greater risk of developing an infection. Report any signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat, fever, cough, changes in sputum color) that occur during treatment. When used for extended periods, medications similar to ciclesonide may affect bone strength, especially in people who smoke, have a family history of brittle bones (osteoporosis), or take other medications that may weaken bones (e.g., phenytoin). Bone density tests may help to determine whether you need medication to treat or prevent this problem. Consult your doctor for more information. Alvesco may temporarily slow down a child's growth if used for a long time. However, poorly controlled asthma can also slow down growth. See the doctor regularly so your child's height can be checked. During pregnancy, Alvesco should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Infants born to mothers who have been using Alvesco for an extended time may have low levels of corticosteroid hormone. Tell the doctor right away if you notice symptoms such as persistent nausea/vomiting, severe diarrhea, or weakness in your newborn. It is not known whether Alvesco passes into breast milk. Therefore, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.