Budesonide Nebulizer Suspension

What is this medication?

BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) prevents the symptoms of asthma. It works by decreasing inflammation of the airways, making it easier to breathe. It belongs to a group of medications called inhaled steroids. It is often called a controller medication. Do not use it to treat a sudden asthma attack.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pulmicort

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Bone problems
• Glaucoma
• Immune system problems
• Infection, like chickenpox, tuberculosis, herpes, or fungal infection
• Recent surgery or injury of the mouth or throat
• Taking corticosteroids by mouth
• An unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, steroids, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is used in a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not mix this medication with other medications in your nebulizer. Do not use more often than directed.

Talk to your care team regarding the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may interact with the following:

• Certain antibiotics such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, and telithromycin
• Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
• Certain medications for fungal infections such as itraconazole and ketoconazole
• Nefazodone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check with your health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. If your symptoms get worse or if you need your short-acting inhalers more often, call your care team right away.

The medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Flu-like symptoms—fever, chills, muscle pain, cough, headache, or fatigue
• Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness
• Pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet
• Sinus pain or pressure around the face or forehead
• Thrush—white patches in the mouth
• Wheezing or trouble breathing that is worse after use

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Cough
• Hoarseness
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at a room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep unopened vials in the foil pouch. When the package has been opened, the shelf life of the unused medication is 2 weeks when protected from light. Unused medication should be returned to the aluminum foil envelope right away to protect them from light. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.