Pulmicort Inhaler

The active ingredient in Pulmicort Flexhaler is budesonide, which is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) that works to reduce inflammation and edema in the lungs, allowing you to breathe better.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Pulmicort Flexhaler. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Pulmicort Flexhaler:

• Pulmicort is not a rescue medication. It will not be fast enough to treat an asthma attack. For an asthma attack, only use a fast-acting inhaler like albuterol.
• When you use the inhaler for the first time, it may not deliver the right amount of medicine with the first puff.
• Use only the inhaler device included with Pulmicort Flexhaler. It should not be used with a spacer. Do not submerge the device in water or attempt to disassemble it. The device includes a dosage counter that indicates how many doses are remaining. The dose-counter indication may not appear to move until about 5 doses have been administered.
• Rinse your mouth with water after using the Pulmicort Flexhaler to prevent thrush (a fungal infection of the mouth or throat). If you use a nebuliser with a face mask, clean the mask region of your face after each usage. This helps prevent hoarseness.
• Clean the mouthpiece every once in a while by wiping it with a dry tissue.
• Do not let a young child use Pulmicort Flexhaler without adult supervision.
• Pulmicort Respules should only be used with a conventional jet nebulizer that is attached to an air compressor. Do not mix with other medications in the nebulizer cup (reservoir).

The most common side effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler include:

• Common cold, stuffy nose, and a sore throat.
• Upper respiratory tract infection.
• Nausea.
• Middle ear infection.
• Oral thrush.
• Allergic rhinitis.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Pulmicort Flexhaler. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Serious allergic reactions include hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing.
• Narrowing of your airways (bronchospasm): sudden, worsening breathing problems, wheezing, chest pain or tightness, cough.
• Allergic reaction to the medication, including swelling, hives, or trouble breathing.
• Increased your risk of having an adrenal gland that is less or more active than normal.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler. You should always consult your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Pulmicort Flexhaler, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Severe allergy to milk proteins.
• Have had an asthma attack.
• Liver disease.
• Osteoporosis.
• Measles, herpes, or chickenpox.
• History of glaucoma or cataracts, as long-term use may cause these.
• Tuberculosis.
• Any other type of infection caused by bacteria, fungi, or a parasite.
• People who use inhaled steroids, like Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide), have reported lower bone mineral density (BMD) over time.
• Adrenal gland problems (adrenal insufficiency).

• Treatment for a sudden, severe asthma attack.
• Lactose or milk protein allergy.

You'll know Pulmicort Flexhaler is working when you notice fewer asthma symptoms, including wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Furthermore, when your asthma is well-controlled, you are less likely to use a rescue inhaler. However, it may take at least 1 to 2 weeks to see the full benefit of Pulmicort Flexhaler.

When Pulmicort Flexhaler is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Antifungal medicines (such as ketoconazole).
• Drugs that weaken the immune system, such as cancer medicines or medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection.
• Seizure medications.
• Other steroid medicines (fluticasone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and others).

Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide) is a dry powder inhaler that comes in two strengths: 90 to 180 mcg per inhalation.

Adults: The typical starting dose is 360 mcg breathed orally twice daily. The maximum dose is 720 mcg, inhaled twice daily.

Children (ages 6 and up): The typical starting dose is 180 mcg twice daily. The maximum dose is 360 mcg, inhaled twice daily.

Store at room temperature, in a dry place, and keep out of reach of children.

AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals is the company that manufactures this medication.

There are no lower-cost generic name versions available.

Do not change your dose or discontinue using this medication without first consulting your doctor for medical advice. Your doctor may advise you to gradually lower the quantity you are using before discontinuing it completely. Some illnesses may worsen if the medication is abruptly stopped, which can be harmful.

Studies of pregnant women using inhaled budesonide have not shown that it increases the risk of abnormalities. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if budesonide is found in breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.