Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide)

Indications

Pulmicort Flexhaler is a corticosteroid medication used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and children aged 6 years or older. It contains an active ingredient called Budesonide. Budesonide belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroid, which work by reducing inflammation in the airways of the lungs, making it easier to breathe.

Pulmicort Flexhaler comes in two strengths: 90 mcg and 180 mcg and can be taken once or twice daily, as directed by a healthcare provider. Budesonide acts locally in the lungs and is not intended to provide immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms. Instead, it is used as a maintenance treatment to prevent asthma symptoms from occurring in the first place. Regular use of Pulmicort Flexhaler can help to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks and improve overall lung function.

Uses and Dosage

To use Pulmicort, inhale the dry powder via the Flexhaler device into your mouth once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Inhale deeply and forcefully while using the device, then turn your mouth away from the device to breathe out before inhaling again. Make sure not to exhale back into the device to avoid contamination. Read and follow the specific instructions provided with your medication and check with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

After using the Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide), rinse your mouth with water to prevent a fungal infection known as thrush. Keep a rescue inhaler nearby to assist with asthma attacks. Prime the Pulmicort Flexhaler before use and hold it upright with the mouthpiece up to load the dose. Discard the Flexhaler when the dosage indicator reads "0". Use dry tissue to clean the mouthpiece once a week.

The recommended starting dosage of Pulmicort Flexhaler for asthma in adults is 360 mcg twice per day. This may be taken as 2 puffs of the 180-mcg strength twice per day. Sometimes your doctor may start your treatment with a lower dosage of 180 mcg twice per day. The maximum dosage for adults is 720 mcg twice per day.

Side Effect

Common Side Effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide):

• Bad taste in the mouth
• Dry, irritated, or sore throat
• Hoarseness
• Nosebleeds
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Voice changes

Serious Side Effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide):

• Agitation
• Depression
• Difficulty breathing
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Hives
• Increased thirst or urination
• Mood changes
• Mood swings
• Muscle weakness or pain
• Puffy face
• Slow wound healing
• Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Thinning skin
• Unusual hair growth
• Unusual tiredness
• Vision problems

Form and Strength

Pulmicort Flexhaler (Budesonide) is available in the following forms and strength:

Pulmicort Flexhaler: Dry Powder Inhaler

• 90 mcg
• 180 mcg

Caution

• Pulmicort Flexhaler is not intended to provide immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if your asthma symptoms do not improve with treatment or become worse.
• Do not stop using Pulmicort Flexhaler suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are currently taking, as certain medications, such as ritonavir or ketoconazole, can interact with Pulmicort Flexhaler.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, tuberculosis, osteoporosis, or any other medical conditions.
• Use caution when switching from an oral corticosteroid medication to Pulmicort Flexhaler, as this can cause symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to use Pulmicort Flexhaler exactly as directed.
• Pulmicort Flexhaler should be used with caution if you have a current or recent infection of the respiratory tract, as this can worsen the infection.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should only use Pulmicort Flexhaler if the benefits outweigh the potential risks to the baby. Talk to your healthcare provider before using this medication.
• Long-term, high-dose use of inhaled corticosteroids such as Pulmicort Flexhaler has been associated with an increased risk of cataracts and glaucoma. Have your eyes checked regularly by an eye doctor if you are using this medication long-term.
• Pulmicort Flexhaler is not recommended for use in children under the age of 6 years. If your child has asthma symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about appropriate treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Pulmicort Flexhaler safe for children?

Pulmicort Flexhaler is considered safe for use in children aged 6 years or older. It is not recommended for use in children under 6.

Can Pulmicort Flexhaler be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pulmicort Flexhaler should only be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding if the benefits of treatment outweigh the potential risks to the baby. Talk to your healthcare provider before using this medication.

Can Pulmicort Flexhaler be used to treat acute asthma symptoms?

No, Pulmicort Flexhaler is not intended to provide immediate relief of acute asthma symptoms. It is used as a maintenance treatment to prevent asthma symptoms from occurring in the first place.

How many days does it take Pulmicort to work?

You may notice a benefit within 2-8 days of starting this drug. It may take up to 4-6 weeks of regular use before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.

Resources

• https://www.pulmicortflexhaler.com/home.html
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/021949s006lbl.pdf
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-147611/pulmicort-flexhaler-inhalation/details
• https://www.goodrx.com/pulmicort/what-is
• https://m.pulmicortflexhaler.com/savings-offer/
• https://www.rxlist.com/pulmicort-turbuhaler-drug.htm