Indications  

Pulmicort Inhaler is a prescription medicine indicated for adult and pediatric patients aged six and above as a prophylactic therapy for maintaining asthma control.  

This medication is also recommended for patients who need oral corticosteroids for asthma management, as it may enable them to reduce or eliminate their reliance on oral corticosteroids gradually. 

Classified as a corticosteroid, Pulmicort Inhaler acts directly on the lungs to alleviate breathing difficulties by reducing airway irritation and inflammation. 

Pulmicort Inhaler does not provide immediate relief and should not be utilized for sudden asthma attacks. In such cases, use a quick-relief inhaler as prescribed. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Pulmicort Inhaler and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

The dosage of Pulmicort Inhaler is determined based on individual medical conditions and response to the treatment.  

Typically, this medication is administered once or twice daily via oral inhalation as prescribed by the doctor. 

To properly use this inhaler, follow these steps: 

1. Hold the inhaler upright and remove the protective cover by twisting the bottom. 
2. If it is 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. 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. 
3. To load the initial dose, rotate the grip of the inhaler fully to the right and then fully to the left until it clicks while keeping it upright. 
4. Turn your head away from the inhaler, exhale, and avoid exhaling into the inhaler. Do not shake the inhaler after loading. 
5. Hold the inhaler horizontally, place the mouthpiece in your mouth, and form a tight seal with your lips. Avoid biting or chewing the mouthpiece. 
6. Inhale deeply and forcefully, ensuring that the mist goes into your throat without obstruction from your teeth or tongue. 
7. Remove the inhaler from your mouth and hold your breath for about 10 seconds. Do not exhale through the inhaler. 
8. If instructed to take two puffs, wait for a 1-minute interval, and repeat steps 4-7. 
   • Load the inhaler in an upright position for the second puff by rotating the grip fully to the right and then to the left until it clicks, just before using. 
9. Replace the protective cap on the inhaler and securely twist it closed. 
10. After inhalation, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. Do not swallow the rinse water. 
11. Maintain the cleanliness and dryness of the inhaler, and keep it securely covered, at all times. 

Monitor the remaining doses by inspecting the dose indicator window and dispose of the device once it has dispensed the specified number of doses or when the red mark reaches the bottom of the indicator window. 

For optimal results, use Pulmicort Inhaler regularly at the same time each day. Avoid increasing the dosage or exceeding the prescribed frequency and duration of use, as this will not hasten your condition’s improvement and may heighten the risk of side effects. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Pulmicort Inhaler. If any of them last or worsen, promptly inform your doctor. 

Common Side Effects 

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

Serious Side Effects 

• Unusual tiredness 
• Vision problems 
• Easy bruising or bleeding 
• Puffy face 
• Unusual hair growth 
• Mental or mood changes (e.g., depression, mood swings, agitation) 
• Muscle weakness or pain 
• Thinning skin 
• Slow wound healing 
• Increased thirst or urination 

Inform 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 Inhaler may occur. Seek prompt medical assistance if you experience indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling face, tongue, or throat 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

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

Cautions 

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

Talk to your pharmacist for further information, as Pulmicort Inhaler may contain inactive components that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

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

• Eye disease (such as cataracts, glaucoma) 

• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Thyroid problems 
• Diabetes 
• Stomach/intestinal problems (such as diverticulitis, ulcer) 
• Bone loss (osteoporosis) 
• Current or past infections (such as tuberculosis, positive tuberculosis test, herpes, fungal) 
• Bleeding problems 
• Mental/mood conditions (such as psychosis, anxiety, depression) 

Pulmicort Inhaler may interact with certain products such as aldesleukin and mifepristone. To minimize the risk of such interactions, inform all healthcare providers about all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, whether recently initiated or discontinued. 

Notify laboratory personnel and your doctors about your utilization of Pulmicort Inhaler, as it can potentially interfere with certain lab tests, such as skin tests. 

Pulmicort Inhaler may mask infection symptoms and raise the chances of contracting or exacerbating infections. Steer clear of contact with individuals carrying highly contagious infections such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, or flu. Seek medical advice if you have been exposed to an infection or require additional information. 

Notify your healthcare provider of your Pulmicort Inhaler usage before receiving any immunizations. Moreover, avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines, such as the nasal flu vaccine. 

Inform any healthcare provider, whether a doctor or dentist, about the use of Pulmicort Inhaler for yourself or your child. It may be necessary to discontinue this medication a few days before undergoing surgery. 

Children who use Pulmicort Inhaler for an extended period may experience temporary growth deceleration. Scheduling regular appointments with a doctor to monitor your child’s height is recommended.  

During pregnancy, Pulmicort Inhaler should only be utilized as needed. Consult your doctor to assess the possible advantages and disadvantages of this medication. 

Consult your doctor before breastfeeding when using Pulmicort Inhaler, as budesonide can potentially pass into breast milk.