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.
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, such as chickenpox, tuberculosis, herpes, fungal infection
Recent surgery or injury of the mouth or throat
Taking corticosteroids medications
An unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
This medication is for inhalation using 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. Do not mix this medication with other medications in your nebulizer. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use more often than directed.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
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?
Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, telithromycin
Certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
Certain medications for fungal infections, such as itraconazole, ketoconazole
Nefazodone
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
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
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. Try to avoid people who are sick. Tell your care team if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox.
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. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
