Pulmicort Respules is an inhaled corticosteroid consisting of budesonide. We carry this medication in both the brand choice and generic alternative in 0.5mg/2ml, 0.25mg/2ml and 1.0mg/2mg!

Pulmicort Respules are used to control and prevent symptoms of asthma. Asthma is a condition affecting the lungs, due to the airways becoming narrow and swollen and producing excess mucus. When the airways become narrow and extra mucus is being produced, the airflow becomes restricted, making it hard to breath and may trigger symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and wheezing. Pulmicort Respules are intended to prevent asthma attacks, however, will not treat asthma attack that has already begun.

Pulmicort Respules are effective at treating asthma because it is able to affect the lungs directly, reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways to allow easier air flow, reducing asthma symptoms.

***Do not use this medication to treat an acute asthma attack.***

Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than directed. For the full benefit of the medication, ensure you take it regularly and create a routine by taking it around the same time every day.

This medication should only be used with a standard jet nebulizer connected to an air compressor. Do not mix other medications into the nebulizer cup. Shake the container lightly before use and double check to ensure you are taking the appropriate strength. Inhale this medication by mouth, once or twice a day. While inhaling, ensure you are breathing calmly and deeply until the mist stops, likely about 5-10 minutes. Avoid having the medication touch your eyes.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help remember, take this medication at the same time every day and use a pillbox or write a reminder on the calendar.  

Do not use Pulmicort Respules (budesonide)

This medication should not be used by those who are allergic to budesonide or milk proteins, or those who are having an acute asthma attack.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

Before taking this medication, to ensure it is both safe and effective for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had food or drug allergies, liver disease, osteoporosis or low bone mineral density, glaucoma, cataracts, or herpes infection of the eyes, tuberculosis, or any type of infection caused by bacteria, fungus, virus, or parasite.

Risks

Long term use of this drug may lead to bone loss. The risk of this is higher in those who smoke, do not exercise, lack vitamin D or calcium in the diet, a family history of bone loss, or if you are a woman going through menopause.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You will need to go over the risks and benefits of this drug during pregnancy.

Common side effects of Pulmicort Respules (budesonide) may include:

runny or stuffy nose, sneezing; red, itchy, and watery eyes; fever, sore throat, cough; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite; nosebleed; or headache, back pain.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Pulmicort Respules (budesonide) may include:

worsening asthma symptoms; wheezing, choking, or other breathing problems after using this medication; white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips; blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights;

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

Contact your doctor if you notice signs of…

infection: fever, chills, body aches, ear pain, nausea, vomiting; or

low adrenal gland hormones: worsening tiredness or muscle weakness, feeling light-headed, nausea, vomiting.

How should I store this medication?

Store this medication in the original foil packaging, upright and protected from light. Avoid keeping this medication in the bathroom where it risks becoming wet. Keep in an area non accessible by children or pets. Do not freeze or refrigerate.

What is the average dose for an adult with asthma?

The recommended dose for an adult with asthma is as follows…

Initial dose: 400 to 2400 mcg () daily in divided doses. Maintenance dose: 200 to 400 mcg twice a day.

How can I prevent dry mouth, hoarseness, and oral yeast infections?

After each use, gargle and rinse your mouth out with water. Do not drink the water you have rinsed your mouth out with. You may also want to wash your face in the areas where the mask touched to avoid any potential irritation.

How long till I feel relief while using this medication?

You should begin feeling relief within 2-8 days of starting this drug but could take anywhere from 4-6 weeks of regular use before the full benefit of the drug is reached.