Common Use

Pulmicort is a corticosteroid used to help prevent asthma symptoms. It is not effective once an asthma attack has started. This medication reduces irritation and swelling in the airways, helping to control or prevent asthma symptoms.

Dosage and Directions

Always consult your doctor before using Pulmicort. The dosage depends on your previous asthma treatments. For adults and children aged 12 and older, the recommended starting dose is 400 to 2400 mcg daily, divided into 2 to 4 puffs. For children aged 6 to 12, the suggested dose is 200 to 400 mcg daily, divided into 2 puffs. Note: This information is for review purposes only. Always consult your doctor for the best results.

Precautions

Before using Pulmicort, inform your doctor of your medical history, including all illnesses, recent exposures to contagious diseases (e.g., chickenpox), glaucoma, cataracts, and any allergies, especially to medications. If you recently switched from an oral corticosteroid to this inhaler or stopped using the inhaler after high doses, your body may not produce enough natural steroids. Additional corticosteroids may be needed during stress from infection, injury, or surgery, as low steroid levels can sometimes be fatal. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unusual weakness, rapid weight loss, or dizziness.

Contraindications

Do not use Pulmicort if you are allergic to budesonide. It is not recommended for primary treatment of acute asthma episodes or for patients with moderate to severe bronchiectasis, active or inactive pulmonary tuberculosis, or untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral respiratory infections.

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects include allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Other possible side effects include:

• Weakness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, or feeling faint
• Wheezing or breathing problems after use
• Worsening respiratory symptoms
• Ear pain with fever
• Vision problems
• Changes in body fat distribution

Less serious side effects may include:

• White patches or sores in the mouth or on the lips
• Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing
• Sore throat, cough
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain
• Nosebleeds
• Headache

If you experience any of these, stop using Pulmicort and consult your doctor immediately. Discuss any unusual side effects with your healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions

Pulmicort may interact with certain medications, including cimetidine, antifungal medicines like ketoconazole or itraconazole, HIV/AIDS medications like amprenavir, ritonavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, or saquinavir, and the antibiotic erythromycin. Interactions do not always require stopping one medication. Consult your doctor on how to manage these interactions.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Overdose

Long-term use of excessive doses can stunt growth or cause Cushing's syndrome. Symptoms include weight gain, a "moon face," muscle wasting, weakness, poor wound healing, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Storage

Store Pulmicort at room temperature between 59-77°F (15-25°C), away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after the expiration date.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It is not intended for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions. We disclaim any liability for the accuracy of this information or any consequences of its use, including self-treatment.