Generic Pulmicort, suspension

Chemical Name: BUDESONIDE

Common uses

This medicine is a corticosteroid used to prevent bronchial asthma. It is not used to relieve an asthma attack. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions such as: glaucoma, cataracts, and any illnesses or infections. Inform your doctor of any recent exposure to contagious diseases such as chickenpox and measles. Also, tell your doctor about any allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine is to be used in a nebulizer or a respirator. Do not use this medicine in an ultrasonic nebulizer. This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. Open the aluminum foil envelope and remove one ampule. Record the date that you open the foil on the back of the envelope. Once the foil is open, the unused ampules should be used within 2 weeks.

Gently shake the ampule then squeeze the contents into the nebulizer. Do not mix this medicine with other medicines in the nebulizer. Connect nebulizer to air pump and begin treatment as directed. Breathe calmly and evenly. When there is no more mist in the nebulizer chamber, the treatment is complete. After each inhalation, rinse your mouth out with water. If a face mask is used, wash face after each dose. After use, wash reservoir of the nebulizer, mouth piece, and mask according to the manufacturer's directions. Rinse well and dry. Once an ampule is opened, use the medicine immediately or discard. Continue to use this medicine even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. Store this medicine in the foil envelope at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not freeze. If you miss a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as possible, then go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not exceed the recommended dose without checking with your doctor. It may take several days for this medicine to work. Do not stop using this medicine without checking with your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor. This medicine will not stop an asthma attack. It should help to prevent future breathing problems. If you are having difficulty breathing, use your bronchodilator or call your doctor. Important: if you have switched from an oral corticosteroid (e.g., prednisone tablets) to this medicine within the past 12 months, your body may not produce enough natural steroids. You may need to start taking additional corticosteroids, especially if your body is stressed due to major infections such as stomach infections (gastroenteritis), surgery, or injury. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific advice regarding stress situations. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following signs of low steroid levels: unusual weakness, sudden weight loss, vomiting, fainting, or severe dizziness.

Before you have any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are using this medicine. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are using this medicine. Avoid exposure to chickenpox and measles. This medicine may affect growth rate in children. Your child's growth should be checked regularly while using this medicine.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include cough, runny nose, stomachache, and nose bleeds. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience wheezing, sinus infection, ear infection, or white patches in mouth or throat. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience swelling of the face, lips, or tongue; depression; irritability; or personality change. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

If your symptoms do not improve after regular use of this medicine or if your asthma becomes worse, contact your doctor. If you switched from oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone tablets) to an inhalation suspension or inhaler within the last 12 months, carry a warning card or medical id bracelet that identifies your possible need of supplemental steroids during periods of stress or a severe asthma attack. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.