Budesonide Inhalation
(byoo-DES-oh-nide)
Definition | Special instructions | Missed dose | Side effects | Warning signs | Contact us
What is budesonide?
Budesonide (Pulmicort" Respules™, Pulmicort Flexhaler") is an inhaled steroid used for long-term control of asthma symptoms. It helps prevent your child from having an asthma attack by decreasing the inflammation that always exists in the airways of the lungs. Budesonide is given through a powder for inhalation or aerosol machine (nebulizer).
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Special instructions
- Pulmicort" is used to prevent an asthma attack. It will not stop your child's asthma attack, but you should continue to use it during the attack as guided by your child's doctor.
- Rinse mouth out with water and spit after each use. Wash face if using a facemask.
- Ask your child's doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use the inhaler or nebulizer properly. Correct use is very important to make sure the drug works.
- It may take a few weeks for this medicine to work.
- Always give as prescribed by your child's doctor. Do not give more or less frequently than directed by your child's doctor.
- Do not stop using unless told to do so by your child's doctor.
- Tell your child's doctor or pharmacist about any other prescription or over-the-counter medicine your child is taking.
- Your child may be more likely to get infections while taking this medicine. Tell your child's doctor if your child comes into contact with anyone with chicken pox or measles.
- Store Pulmicort Flexhaler" at room temperature away from heat, moisture, or direct sunlight.
- Once the foil pouch containing the Pulmicort" Respules™ is opened, the vials will be good 2 weeks. Do not use after the expiration date on the package or after 2 weeks after opening foil pouch.
- Shake each Pulmicort" Respules™ well prior to use.
- Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
- If too much of this medication is taken by accident, call the Drug and Poison Information Center (DPIC) at (513) 636-5111 or 1-800-222-1222, or call your child's doctor immediately.
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Missed dose
For any medication information related to your child's dosing schedule and/or missed doses, contact the healthcare provider who prescribed the medication.
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Common Side Effects
Call your child's doctor if symptoms continue or are bothersome:
- Hoarseness or sore throat
- Yeast infections in the mouth (white spots), known as thrush
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Warning Signs
Call your child's doctor immediately if your child:
- Does not respond to his/her asthma medication.
- Seems to require more frequent use of asthma medication.
- Develops worsening symptoms of asthma.
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Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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Rev. 3/08
