What is Budesonide used for?

Budesonide is an inhalation medication prescribed to treat asthma attacks and mild-to-moderate Crohn's disease. It belongs to a class of drugs called corticosteroids that prevent asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath, troubled breathing, and wheezing. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

What is the recommended dosage of Budesonide?

The dosage of Budesonide prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label. The following dosage information includes the common dose of Budesonide. If your dose is different, do not follow the dosage described below unless your physician has approved.

Budesonide is usually used once or twice a day.

What if you miss a dose of Budesonide?

If your physician has instructed or directed you to use Budesonide medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.

What if you overdose on Budesonide?

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Budesonide, seek medical attention immediately.

What other drugs could interact with Budesonide?

• Amitriptyline
• Clarithromycin
• Doxepin
• Imipramine
• Itraconazole
• Nelfinavir
• Nortriptyline

It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Budesonide.

Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Budesonide, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.

Budesonide can interact with antibiotics, HIV/AIDS medicines, tricyclic antidepressants, and antifungal medicines.

Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the side effects of Budesonide?

Like other medicines, Budesonide can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Budesonide are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Budesonide cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Budesonide develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Budesonide can cause side effects such as mouth sores, cough, headache, runny nose, nosebleeds, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Some of the serious side effects of this drug are swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, severe acne, and vision problems. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are using Budesonide.

What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Budesonide?

Is it possible for me to use Budesonide with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I use Budesonide?
What are the possible drug interactions of Budesonide?
How will Budesonide work in my body?
How should Budesonide be used?
How to reduce the risk of Budesonide drug interactions and side effects?

Note

The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. Before using Budesonide, tell your doctor if you have a history of tuberculosis, liver disease, and osteoporosis. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or breast-feeding. Avoid being near individuals who have chicken pox or measles.