Pulmicort Respules (Budesonide)

Indications

Pulmicort Respules is a medication used to treat and prevent asthma symptoms in adults and children. It is an inhaled corticosteroid medicine that contains the active ingredient budesonide (micronized) in a sterile suspension form for inhalation via a jet nebulizer.

Budesonide works by reducing inflammation in the airways, which can help to prevent asthma symptoms such as wheezing and difficulty breathing. It is typically used as a long-term maintenance medicine to control and prevent asthma symptoms and is available only with a doctor's prescription.

Uses and Dosage

Pulmicort Respules (budesonide) must be used exclusively with a jet nebulizer machine as it transforms the medication into a mist that you can breathe into your lungs. Do not use an ultrasonic nebulizer with this medication. Additionally, do not swallow the medication or mix it with other medicine in the nebulizer.

Here are general instructions on how to use Pulmicort Respules:

1. Wash your hands and assemble the nebulizer according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Open one foil pouch and remove the ampule from it. Immediately reseal the remaining ampules.
3. Squeeze the contents of the ampule into the nebulizer cup.
4. Connect the nebulizer to the compressor.
5. Sit in an upright and comfortable position and breathe normally. Insert the mouthpiece or mask and turn on the compressor.
6. Breathe through your mouth until all the medicine is gone.
7. Clean the nebulizer according to the manufacturer's instructions after use.

Follow your doctor's instructions on the specific dosage and frequency of use of Pulmicort Respules.

Side Effect

Common Side Effects of Pulmicort Respules (Budesonide):

• Cough
• Ear infections
• Nosebleed
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
• Rash
• Respiratory infections. Symptoms may include stuffy nose, sore nose and throat.
• Runny nose
• Viral infections
• Viral irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestine (gastroenteritis). Gastroenteritis symptoms may include stomach area pain, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, and loss of appetite.

Serious Side Effects of Pulmicort Respules (Budesonide):

• Adrenal insufficiency
• Allergic reactions
• Anxiety (feeling of doom)
• Chest pain
• Decrease in bone mineral density (bone strength)
• Eye problems, including glaucoma and cataracts
• Immune system effects and a higher chance of infections
• Severe itching
• Skin rash, redness or swelling
• Slowed or delayed growth problems
• Swelling of the face, mouth, and tongue
• Thrush (candida), a fungal infection in your mouth and throat
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Worsening of asthma or sudden asthma attacks.

Form and Strength

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

Budesonide: Respules

• 1mg/2mL
• 0.5mg/2mL

Caution

• PULMICORT RESPULES may cause serious side effects including thrush (candida), a fungal infection in your mouth or throat. Rinse your mouth with water without swallowing after treatment to help prevent this.

• PULMICORT RESPULES may weaken your immune system. Avoid contact with people who have contagious diseases such as chickenpox or measles while you are taking PULMICORT RESPULES.
• PULMICORT RESPULES should be used with caution in patients with active or quiescent tuberculosis infection of the respiratory tract; untreated systemic fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections; or ocular herpes simplex as they may worsen with the use of the medication.
• PULMICORT RESPULES should be used with caution in patients with hypersensitivity to budesonide, as this may lead to allergic reactions.
• PULMICORT RESPULES should be used with caution in patients with liver cirrhosis, as the medication may not be metabolized properly in these individuals.
• PULMICORT RESPULES should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks, as it is not a rescue medication.
• PULMICORT RESPULES may interact with other medications, so inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking before using this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take for budesonide (Pulmicort Respules) to work?

Improvement in asthma symptoms can be seen as early as 2 to 8 days of starting budesonide (Pulmicort Respules). It can take up to 4 to 6 weeks to see maximum improvement in your asthma symptoms. If your symptoms worsen or do not get better after using the medication as prescribed for 4 to 6 weeks, let your healthcare provider know.

Is budesonide (Pulmicort Respules) safe to use in children?

Yes, Budesonide (Pulmicort Respules) can safely be used to treat and prevent asthma in children between the ages of 1 to 8 years. It has not been proven to be safe in children under the age of 1, so it should be avoided in that age group.

Can Pulmicort Respules be used to treat COPD?

Pulmicort Respules is not approved for the treatment of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). The medication is specifically approved for the treatment of asthma.

Can I stop taking Pulmicort Respules if my symptoms improve?

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the use of Pulmicort Respules. Even if your symptoms improve, you should not stop taking the medication without first consulting your doctor.

Resources

• https://www.drugs.com/mtm/pulmicort-respules.html
• https://www.goodrx.com/budesonide/what-is
• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=33cd9834-76df-4f26-3fa2-aab6b9eee8f2
• https://www.rxlist.com/pulmicort-respules-drug.htm
• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2000/20929lbl.pdf