Budesonide
Pulmicort Turbuhaler
Pulmicort Turbuhaler is an inhalation medication containing budesonide, used primarily to manage and prevent asthma symptoms and for maintenance therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Available in dry powder form, it reduces airway inflammation, aiding in easier breathing. It’s not suitable for immediate relief during an asthma attack and has specific dosages tailored for adults and children. Potential side effects include oral thrush and throat irritation, among others. You can easily buy pulmicort turbuhaler online from Canada.
Product Overview
Pulmicort Turbuhaler, a dry powder inhaler, features budesonide as its active ingredient, serving as a long-term management medication for asthma and as maintenance therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This corticosteroid works by diminishing inflammation within the airways, thereby facilitating improved breathing and reducing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
Pulmicort is available in strengths of 100, 200, and 400 mcg. The recommended dosages vary: adults and children over 12 may start with 200 to 400 mcg twice daily for asthma, with a maximum of 1600 mcg daily, while for COPD, doses of 200 to 400 mcg twice daily are common, not to exceed 800 mcg. Side effects are generally mild but can include oral thrush, throat irritation, and possible systemic effects from prolonged use.
It is crucial for users to follow a healthcare provider’s instructions for use to avoid complications and to consult with their doctor for dose adjustments based on their specific health conditions and responses to treatment. You may buy Pulmicort turbuhaler from Canada online with a valid prescription from your primary care physician.
What Is Pulmicort Turbuhaler Used For?
Pulmicort Turbuhaler is used for the following medical conditions:
- Treatment of Asthma
- Maintenance therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
What Strengths Does Pulmicort Inhaler Come In?
It comes in the form of a dry powder inhaler with the following strengths:
- 100 mcg
- 200 mcg
- 400 mcg
What Is the Typical Dosage of Pulmicort Turbuhaler?
The typical dosage of Pulmicort Turbuhaler for managing asthma can vary based on your specific health needs and the version of the medication you’re using. Generally, doctors start with a standard dose and adjust it as needed over time. It’s important to remember that the dosage information provided here is just a general guideline. If your doctor has prescribed a different amount, it’s crucial that you follow their instructions exactly and not change your dose on your own. If you have any questions about your medication or if you think your dosage needs adjustment, always talk to your healthcare provider.
Dosage of Pulmicort Turbuhaler for Asthma
- For Adults and Children More Than 12 Years Old:
- The initial recommended dose is typically 200-400 mcg twice daily.
- The dosage should not exceed 1600 mcg daily.
- Once your asthma is under control, your doctor may reduce your medication dose to the lowest effective dose.
- For Children Aged 6-11 Years
- The initial dose is usually 100-200 mcg twice daily.
- The maximum recommended dose is up to 800 mcg daily.
- Your doctor may make dosage adjustments based on the severity of the condition being treated & your body’s response to treatment.
Dosage of Pulmicort Turbuhaler for COPD
- For Adults
-
- The recommended dose of Pulmicort Turbuhaler is 400 mcg twice daily.
- Some patients may benefit from 200 mcg twice daily.
- The maximum recommended dose is 800 mcg daily.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How Do I Use Pulmicort Turbuhaler?
When you are using Pulmicort Turbuhaler for asthma management and maintenance therapy for COPD, you need to be careful about the usage and dosage. Below is the guide that you can follow to use this device properly:
- Before using Pulmicort Turbuhaler, you should carefully read & follow the instructions for use given in the patient information leaflet that came with your prescription medication and ask your doctor if you don’t understand any part of it.
- You should use this medication exactly as your doctor directs, typically once or twice daily. Do not use it more or less than prescribed, in large quantities or more frequently, as it can increase your risk of unwanted side effects.
- Your doctor may change your dose frequently to help you get the most out of your medicine.
- Do not shake or drop this product or use a spacer with it. Do not use the inhaler if the mouthpiece has come off or is damaged.
- While using the inhaler device, hold it upright and inhale as deeply and forcefully as you can.
- Before inhaling, turn your mouth away from the device and exhale. Do not breathe out into the device again.
- If your prescribed dose is two puffs, you should keep a gap of at least 1 minute between them.
- If you are using other inhalers simultaneously, keep a gap of at least one minute between each medication and use this medication last.
- After each use of an inhaler, you should adequately rinse your mouth with water and spit out to prevent hoarseness, dry mouth, and oral yeast infections.
- You should keep track of each medication dose you use. Discard the inhaler device after it has delivered the labeled number of doses.
- The medication dosage is based on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment.
- To get the most benefit of your medication, you should maintain consistency in dosage and take it around the same time every day to help you remember it.
- You should not abruptly stop taking this medication unless your doctor tells you to, as certain conditions, including asthma, may become worse if you abruptly stop taking this medication.
- You may start to notice benefits from this medication within 24 hours of starting this medication.
- Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or worsen.
Follow the Step-by-step Instructions Given Below
- Remove the white cover by unscrewing it counterclockwise.
- Hold the inhaler upright with the brown base at the bottom.
- Twist the brown base to the right as far as it will go.
- Twist it back to the left until you hear a click.
- Turn your head away from the inhaler.
- Breathe out normally and completely.
- Hold the Turbuhaler upright with the mouthpiece facing you.
- Place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it.
- Inhale deeply and forcefully through your mouth.
- Remove the Turbuhaler from your mouth.
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or as long as you are comfortable.
- Breathe out slowly through your mouth/nose, away from the inhaler.
- Rinse your mouth carefully with water and spit it out without swallowing.
- Put the white cover back on and turn it clockwise until it is tight.
- Check the dose indicator on the side of the inhaler.
- If prescribed more than one dose, wait about 30 seconds and repeat the process.
- Keep the inhaler dry, and never wash it with water.
- Store Pulmicort at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
- Clean the outside of the mouthpiece once weekly with a dry tissue.
- Never use the Turbuhaler if it has been damaged or if the mouthpiece has come apart.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Pulmicort Turbuhaler Work?
Pulmicort Turbuhaler contains budesonide, a corticosteroid that works by reducing inflammation in the airways. When inhaled, it directly targets the lungs, helping to decrease swelling and irritation, making breathing easier. This medication is used regularly to manage and prevent asthma symptoms, but it is not effective for immediate relief during an asthma attack. By consistently reducing inflammation, Pulmicort Turbuhaler helps to control asthma & reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
What Are the Important Safety Information for Using Pulmicort?
What Are the Side Effects of Pulmicort Turbuhaler?
Common Pulmicort Turbuhaler Side Effects: When using medications like the Pulmicort turbuhaler for asthma management, it’s common to experience some side effects, which usually last only a short period—from a few days to a few weeks. If these side effects linger, become bothersome, or intensify, it’s important to consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure your safety and adjust your treatment if necessary. Here are the common side effects you might encounter with Pulmicort Turbuhaler:
- Oral thrush: This is a yeast infection in the mouth, recognizable by white patches, redness, and sometimes a burning sensation inside your mouth or on your tongue. It occurs because the medication can affect the natural balance of microorganisms in your mouth.
- Throat irritation: You may feel a scratchy or sore throat after using the inhaler. This happens because the medication can cause irritation when it passes through your throat.
- Cough: Sometimes, inhaling the medication might trigger a cough reflex or irritate the airways slightly, leading to coughing shortly after use.
- Change in voice: Your voice might become hoarse or raspy. This occurs if the medication causes irritation or slight swelling in the vocal cords.
- Headache: Headaches can occur as a side effect, potentially due to changes in the body from the medication.
- Nausea: Feeling nauseous is another possible side effect, though it’s generally less common with inhaled medications like Pulmicort.
- Respiratory infection: Using Pulmicort might increase the risk of getting a respiratory infection because it affects the immune response in your airways.
Serious Pulmicort Turbuhaler Side Effects: While Pulmicort Turbuhaler is an effective medication for managing asthma, it can sometimes cause serious side effects. If you experience any of these, it’s crucial to contact your doctor immediately. For life-threatening symptoms or emergencies, call your local emergency services or 911. Here are Pulmicort serious side effects:
- Allergic reactions: Signs include itching, a rash, swelling (typically of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can indicate a severe allergic reaction that needs urgent medical attention.
- Immune system suppression: The medication can weaken your immune system, making it easier for you to catch infections and harder to fight them off.
- Adrenal suppression: This occurs when the medication affects your adrenal glands, reducing their ability to produce certain hormones. This might cause symptoms like extreme fatigue, weakness, and weight loss.
- Growth suppression in children: Long-term use of Pulmicort can potentially slow down growth in children. It’s important for children using this medication to have their growth monitored regularly by a healthcare provider.
- Glaucoma or cataracts: These are eye conditions that can lead to impaired vision. Glaucoma increases pressure in the eye, while cataracts cloud the eye’s lens.
- Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, making them more fragile and more likely to break. Long-term use of Pulmicort may contribute to decreased bone density.
- Paradoxical bronchospasm: Instead of opening up the airways, sometimes medications like Pulmicort can cause them to tighten suddenly. This is rare but serious and requires immediate medical treatment.
- Psychiatric effects: These may include unusual mood swings, agitation, anxiety, depression, and significant behavioral changes. It’s important to report these symptoms to your doctor as they may need to adjust your treatment.
- Bruising or thinning of skin: These symptoms can occur when the medication affects the skin’s natural resilience and healing capabilities.
- Pneumonia: Particularly in patients with chronic respiratory diseases, Pulmicort can increase the risk of developing pneumonia. Symptoms include chest pain, fever, and difficulty breathing.
[Note: This list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Using Pulmicort Turbuhaler?
Before starting your treatment or buying an affordable pulmicort for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, it’s vital to talk to your primary care physician about the possible benefits and risks. Here are some key warnings to keep in mind:
- You should not use this medication while you are having an asthma attack, as Pulmicort is not a rescue medication. You should only use a fast-acting inhalation medication during an asthma attack that has already begun.
- You should seek immediate medical attention if your breathing problems worsen quickly or if you suspect that your medications are not working as correctly as they should. An increased need for medication could be an early warning sign or a severe asthma attack.
- Your doctor may change your medication dosage if you are ill, having surgery, are under stress, or have recently had an asthma attack. You should talk to your doctor if your asthma medications are not working as well in preventing or treating asthma attacks.
- Patients transferring from systemic corticosteroids to Pulmicort may need careful monitoring due to potential adrenal insufficiency.
- If you also use an oral steroid medication, you should not abruptly stop taking this medication as you may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor if you are thinking about discontinuing the drug. They may help you taper off the medication before stopping completely.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Taking Pulmicort?
When using Pulmicort Turbuhaler for managing asthma, it’s important to take certain precautions to ensure it works safely and effectively. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Allergies: Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to Pulmicort or any of its components, such as lactose or milk proteins, which are present in some formulations. These ingredients could trigger allergic reactions.
- Medical History: Share your complete medical history with your doctor, particularly if you have conditions like eye diseases (e.g., cataracts, glaucoma), high blood pressure, liver or thyroid problems, diabetes, gastrointestinal issues (like diverticulitis or ulcers), osteoporosis, or if you’ve had infections like tuberculosis or herpes. Mention any bleeding disorders or mental health conditions such as psychosis, anxiety, or depression.
- Recent or Current Steroid Use: If you’ve recently switched from oral corticosteroids (like prednisone) to Pulmicort, or if you’ve been on high doses, inform your doctor. This is important because your body might react differently to physical stress. Notify your healthcare providers before any surgery or if you get seriously ill, and consider wearing a medical ID that notes your use of corticosteroids.
- Infections: Budesonide, the active ingredient in Pulmicort, can hide infection symptoms and make you more susceptible to new infections or worsen existing ones. Stay away from people with contagious diseases like chickenpox or measles, and consult your doctor if you think you’ve been exposed to an infection.
- Vaccinations: Let your doctor know you’re using Pulmicort before getting any vaccines, especially live ones, as there might be increased risks or a need for timing adjustments.
- Growth in Children: Long-term use of Pulmicort may temporarily slow growth in children. Regularly monitor your child’s growth if they are using this medication.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use Pulmicort turbuhaler for asthma management during pregnancy only when absolutely necessary, after discussing the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. Budesonide can pass into breast milk, so talk to your doctor before breastfeeding.
What Are the Contraindications for Pulmicort?
The medication in pulmicort turbuhaler for managing asthma is contraindicated for use in patients who have:
- A known hypersensitivity to budesonide or any of the ingredients present in the product.
- An acute asthma attack or status asthmaticus
- Active or inactive tuberculosis of the lungs
- Bacterial, fungal, or infections of the respiratory system.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Pulmicort Turbuhaler?
Here’s what you can do when you skip or miss a dose of Pulmicort Turbuhaler:
- If you have missed a dose of Pulmicort Turbuhaler, you should take it as soon as you remember.
- However, if it is almost time to take your next dose of the medication, you may omit the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take double or extra doses of the same medication simultaneously to compensate for the missed dose, as this may lead to unwanted side effects.
- To prevent missing doses, you can try setting a reminder on your phone. Medication reminders work best for this purpose.
[Note: If you have missed a medication dose and are still unsure when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much Pulmicort?
Taking pulmicort turbuhaler for managing asthma more than the prescribed dose on a single occasion is rarely life-threatening, but long-term overuse of the medication may cause Cushing’s syndrome. You should immediately seek medical attention if suspected. You can contact your doctor, call 911, or poison control helpline. You can also head to the nearest emergency room.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How Do You Store Pulmicort?
To store your medication properly, especially when you buy Pulmicort Turbuhaler online, you should follow the mentioned instructions below:
- You can keep a Pulmicort Turbuhaler in a tightly closed container at a controlled room temperature, away from moisture, excess heat, and direct sunlight.
- You can store it in a cool, dark, and dry place and close the cap tightly when not used.
- Keep all medications, including Pulmicort Turbuhaler, in a safe place, away from the sight and reach of children and pets.
- You should not keep medications that are outdated or no longer needed. Discard them safely.
- You should dispose of unwanted medications in a way that prevents children, animals, and others from consuming them.
- Do not flush them down the toilet, throw them in the household garbage bin, or pour them down the drain.
- You can consult your pharmacist, local waste disposal company, or healthcare provider to learn more about the proper ways to eliminate unwanted medications.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Drugs Interact with Pulmicort?
Pulmicort Turbuhaler can interact with various medications, potentially affecting how well it works or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to tell your doctor about all the medicines you are currently using, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements. This helps manage potential interactions effectively. Here’s how Pulmicort may interact with different types of medications:
- Antidepressants: These can affect how Pulmicort is metabolized (processed) in your body, potentially leading to increased side effects.
- Antifungals such as Itraconazole and Ketoconazole: These medications can slow down the breakdown of Pulmicort in your liver, increasing the levels of Pulmicort in your body and potentially its side effects.
- Atazanavir, Indinavir, Ritonavir, Nelfinavir, Saquinavir (HIV medications): These can also slow the breakdown of Pulmicort, leading to higher levels in the body.
- Atenolol, Metoprolol, Propranolol (Beta-blockers): These heart medications might interact with Pulmicort, affecting how your body handles both drugs.
- Certain antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin, Clarithromycin, Erythromycin, Telithromycin: Can increase the concentration of Pulmicort in your body, potentially leading to more side effects.
- Dexamethasone, Hydrocortisone, Methylprednisolone, Prednisone (Steroids): Using Pulmicort with other steroids can enhance the risk of hormonal imbalances and increase side effects.
- Diuretics: Commonly known as water pills, when used with Pulmicort, can affect electrolyte balance.
- Diltiazem, Verapamil (Calcium channel blockers): These drugs can impact how Pulmicort is metabolized, potentially leading to higher levels of Pulmicort in your blood.
- Estrogens and oral contraceptives: These can sometimes increase the effects of Pulmicort, necessitating dosage adjustments.
- Fluconazole: Similar to other antifungals, Fluconazole can increase Pulmicort levels and the potential for side effects.
- Immunosuppressants: These drugs, when taken with Pulmicort, can increase the risk of infections and other side effects due to both drugs suppressing the immune system.
- Ipratropium, Tiotropium (Bronchodilators): Using these with Pulmicort may enhance the overall effect on breathing but also side effects.
- NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can affect kidney function, which in turn might influence how Pulmicort is cleared from the body.
- St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement can reduce the effectiveness of Pulmicort by increasing its breakdown and elimination from the body.
What Are the Other Pulmicort Turbuhaler Interactions?
Pulmicort Turbuhaler, like many medications, can interact not only with other drugs but also with certain foods, drinks, herbs, or dietary supplements. These interactions can affect how well the medication works or increase the risk of side effects. Here’s a simple explanation of these types of interactions:
- Foods and Drinks: While Pulmicort does not have many known food interactions, consuming caffeinated beverages might exacerbate side effects like nervousness or trouble sleeping in some individuals. It’s generally a good idea to monitor how your body reacts to certain foods while taking any medication.
- Herbal Supplements: Some herbs, like St. John’s Wort which is often used for depression, can decrease the levels of Pulmicort in your blood, making it less effective. It’s important to discuss any herbal supplements you are taking with your doctor, as these can have unexpected effects on your medication.
- Dietary Supplements: Certain vitamins and minerals may also interact with Pulmicort. For example, high doses of vitamin C could theoretically affect the metabolism of Pulmicort, although this is more of a theoretical concern unless you are taking large supplement doses.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Pulmicort Turbuhaler. Tell your doctor about prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products.]
What Are the Alternatives to Pulmicort?
People look for alternative medicines for pulmicort turbuhaler for asthma management when the medication does not suit them, or they do not get the desired results from it. However, you should always consult a licensed healthcare professional before changing your medication, and they will help you determine which substitute of Pulmicort will work best for you based on your medical condition and needs. Based on the conditions these medications treat, they are categorized as follows:
Alternatives for Asthma
- QVAR (beclomethasone)
- Flovent (fluticasone)
- Alvesco (ciclesonide)
- Asmanex (mometasone)
- Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol)
- Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol)
- Fasenra (benralizumab)
- Dupixent (dupilumab)
Alternatives for COPD
- Spiriva (tiotropium)
- Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium)
- Flovent (fluticasone)
- Pulmicort (budesonide)
- Prednisone (prednisone)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Pulmicort Turbuhaler Coupons & Cost
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Pulmicort Turbuhaler to work?
Pulmicort Turbuhaler doesn’t provide immediate relief for an asthma attack. For best results, it should be used daily. You might start to notice its effects within 2 hours of use, but it generally takes 1 to 2 weeks to experience the full benefits.
What does Pulmicort do for the lungs?
Pulmicort works by reducing inflammation directly in the airways, helping to manage and prevent asthma symptoms effectively. It is essential to use it regularly as it is a preventative medication. Pulmicort Respules can also be used for treating croup in young children and infants.
How do I know if my Turbuhaler is working?
To check if you are using the Turbuhaler correctly, cover the mouthpiece with a dark cloth before inhaling. If you inhale properly, a fine layer of powder will appear on the cloth, indicating the medication is being drawn from the device.
Is Turbuhaler better than other inhalers?
Research indicates that the Turbuhaler can deliver a more effective dose in severe asthma cases compared to the same dose from a standard pMDI (pressurized Metered Dose Inhaler) and Nebuhaler. It provides a better bronchodilating effect, which helps to open the airways more effectively.
How often can I use my Pulmicort inhaler?
You should use your Pulmicort Turbuhaler exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually twice a day for asthma management. The specific frequency and dosage might vary based on the severity of your symptoms and how well you respond to treatment.
How do I know when my Pulmicort Turbuhaler is empty?
The Turbuhaler comes with a dose indicator on the side, which shows how many doses are left. As you use it, the indicator moves closer to a red zone. When it enters this zone, it means there are fewer than 20 doses remaining, signaling it’s time to get a replacement.
Can Pulmicort Turbuhaler be used during a sudden asthma attack?
Pulmicort Turbuhaler is not intended for quick relief during an asthma attack. It is designed for regular use to decrease the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms. For sudden asthma symptoms, you should use a fast-acting rescue inhaler and ensure you always have one accessible.
How does Pulmicort Turbuhaler affect children’s growth?
Long-term use of Pulmicort, which contains the corticosteroid budesonide, could potentially affect a child’s growth. Though the medication is crucial for controlling asthma, which can hinder growth, its impact on growth rates needs to be monitored.
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