Indications  

Pulmicort Flexhaler is a prescribed medication used for preventing and managing asthma symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) in adults and children aged six years old and above. 

Classified as a corticosteroid, Pulmicort Flexhaler works by reducing airway inflammation and irritation, facilitating improved respiratory function. 

Pulmicort Flexhaler does not provide immediate relief and should not be relied upon for sudden asthma attacks. In such cases, adhere to the prescribed quick-relief inhaler. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Pulmicort Flexhaler and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your physician or pharmacist if you have any questions. 

Pulmicort Flexhaler dosage may vary per individual based on their medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

This medication comes as a dry powder in an inhaler device and is typically administered twice daily via oral inhalation as prescribed by the doctor. 

To properly use this inhaler, follow these steps: 

1. Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. 
2. Hold the inhaler upright and twist the bottom to remove its protective cover. 
3. For the first use of a new inhaler, priming is necessary.  
   • Hold the inhaler upright with the mouthpiece facing up.  
   • Twist the brown grip all the way to the right, then fully back to the left. You will hear a click, then repeat this step.  
   • The inhaler is now primed and ready to load the first dose. Subsequent priming is not required, even after prolonged non-use. 
4. While holding the inhaler upright, load the first dose by turning the grip fully to the right and then fully to the left until it clicks. 
5. Turn your head away from the inhaler and exhale. Do not exhale into the inhaler and do not shake the inhaler after loading. 
6. Hold the inhaler horizontally, then place the mouthpiece in your mouth and form a tight seal with your lips, refraining from biting or chewing it. 
7. Inhale deeply and forcefully, ensuring the mist goes into your throat and is not obstructed by your teeth or tongue. 
8. Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for approximately 10 seconds. Do not exhale through the inhaler. 
9. If prescribed to take two puffs, allow a 1-minute interval, and repeat steps 5-8.  
   • For the second puff, load the inhaler in the upright position immediately before use by turning the grip fully to the right and then fully to the left until it clicks. 
10. Replace the protective cap on the inhaler and twist it securely close. 
11. After each use, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. Do not swallow the rinse water. 
12. Keep the inhaler clean and dry with the cover tightly in place. 

For optimal results, use Pulmicort Flexhaler regularly, around the same times daily. Refrain from increasing the dose or exceeding the prescribed frequency and duration of use. Doing so will not expedite the improvement of your condition and may elevate the risk of side effects. 

Monitor the number of doses available through the inhaler dose 

indicator window. Dispose of the device once it has administered the specified number of doses or when the red mark reaches the bottom of the dose indicator window. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler. If any of them persist or worsen, promptly notify your doctor. 

Common Side Effects 

• Runny or stuffy nose  
• Sneezing 
• Red, itchy, and watery eyes 
• Fever, sore throat, or cough 
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or loss of appetite 
• Nosebleed 
• Headache or back pain 

Serious Side Effects 

• Worsening asthma symptoms 
• Wheezing, choking, or breathing difficulties after medication use 
• White patches or sores inside the mouth or on the lips 
• Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights 
• Signs of infection, such as: 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Body aches 
  • Ear pain 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
• Signs of low adrenal gland hormone: 
  • Increased fatigue or muscle weakness 
  • Lightheadedness 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 

Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Pulmicort Flexhaler may occur. Seek prompt medical attention if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• Rash 
• Severe itching 
• Chest pain 
• Difficult breathing 
• Feeling anxious 
• Swelling face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Not all side effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler are included in this list. Inform your doctor promptly if any unlisted effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Pulmicort Flexhaler, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to budesonide and other medications. 

Talk to your pharmacist for further details, as Pulmicort Flexhaler may contain inactive components (such as milk proteins) that may trigger allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Pulmicort Flexhaler is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Eye disease (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma) 
• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Thyroid problems 
• Diabetes 
• Stomach or intestinal problems (e.g., diverticulitis, ulcer) 
• Bone loss (osteoporosis) 
• Current or past infections (e.g., tuberculosis, positive tuberculosis test, herpes, fungal) 
•  Bleeding problems 
•  Mental mood conditions (e.g., psychosis, anxiety, depression) 

Some products may interact with Pulmicort Flexhaler, including aldesleukin and mifepristone. To lower the risk of such drug interactions, inform all your healthcare providers of any current, newly started, or stopped medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Ensure that all laboratory personnel and your doctors are informed about your use of Pulmicort Flexhaler, as it can potentially disrupt specific lab tests, including skin tests. 

The use of Pulmicort Flexhaler can hide signs of infection and increase the risk of acquiring or worsening infections. Avoid contact with individuals who have easily transmissible infections like chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu. Consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or need further information. 

Inform your healthcare provider about your use of Pulmicort Flexhaler before receiving any immunizations. Moreover, refrain from interacting with individuals who have recently been administered live vaccines, like the nasal flu vaccine. 

Long-term use of Pulmicort Flexhaler may result in temporary growth deceleration in children. Schedule regular appointments with the doctor to monitor your child’s height. 

Pulmicort Flexhaler should only be used when necessary during pregnancy. Consult with your doctor to evaluate this medication’s potential risks and benefits. 

Seek advice from your doctor before breastfeeding, as budesonide can be transferred through breast milk.