Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler

(Budesonide)

The active ingredient in Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler is budesonide. It is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the nasal passages to help relieve allergy symptoms such as a stuffy nose, sneezing, and a runny nose.

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 Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler:

1. Before using the inhaler for the first time, unscrew and lift the cover.

2. Holding the inhaler upright, turn the grey grip as far as it will go in one direction, then in the other direction as far as it will go. At some point, you will hear a click.

3. Repeat step two.

4. To take a dose, start by blowing your nose and washing your hands.

5. Then unscrew and lift off the cover, and repeat the same steps as step two. Your dose is now ready. If you accidentally shake, drop, or breathe into the inhaler, you will lose the dose and have to repeat this step.

6. Breathe out through your nose away from the inhaler.

7. Then place the adapter into your nostril, making sure it fits tightly. Block your other nostril with your finger.

8. Breathe in quickly and hard through your nose.

9. Take the inhaler out, then breathe out away from the device.

10. Repeat steps 5-9 for the other nostril.

11. Clean the outside of the nasal adapter (the part that goes in your nose) once a week with a dry tissue. Always store the device with the cap on.

12. Watch the dose indicator, which will turn red when you have 20 doses left.

The most common side effects of Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nose/ throat irritation.
• Nosebleeds.
• Itchy/sore throat.
• Cough.
• Fatigue.

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

• Small holes/ulcers in the skin inside the nose.
• Suppression of the immune system. While taking this drug, you should avoid contact with anyone who has been exposed to or is currently diagnosed with measles or chickenpox. This medication may also worsen symptoms of infections such as existing tuberculosis, fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.
• Adrenal gland insufficiency, which may present with symptoms of fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and low blood pressure.
• Serious allergic reactions, which may present as skin rash, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, or tongue, and/ or trouble breathing.
• Slowed growth in pediatric or adolescent populations.

These are not all of the possible side effects of budesonide. You should always seek medical advice from 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 Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler, 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:

• Asthma.
• Thyroid problems.
• Liver problems.
• Eye problems such as cataracts or glaucoma.

• Hypersensitivity to budesonide.
• Active or latent tuberculosis.
• Untreated bacterial, fungal, or viral infections
• Children under 6 years old.

You should see an effect about 2-3 days after using this inhaler, but the full effect may take up to 2 weeks.

When Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler 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:

• Cimetidine (Tagamet) and CYP3A4 inhibitors (ritonavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole) may reduce the body's ability to clear budesonide, resulting in higher side effects when used together.

Brand-name Rhinocort Nasal Turbuhaler provides a 100 mcg dose of budesonide per actuation.

It should be stored at room temperature, out of reach of children or pets.

It is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

No, but there are budesonide nasal sprays available from many generic drug manufacturers.

You should not stop taking this medication abruptly, as this can cause rebound congestion. Often confused with a return of symptoms, it is caused by overuse and sudden withdrawal from the medication.

Intranasal corticosteroids used in regular doses are not usually associated with risk to a growing fetus. 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.

While it is found in breast milk, intranasal budesonide is considered safe during breastfeeding. 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.