Budesonide
Also sold as: Pulmicort, Rhinocort
Prescription neededAsthma and breathing
Comes as:InhalerNebuliserNose spray
Usual adult dose
Dose is set by your doctor. Usual adult inhaled dose: 200 to 400 micrograms twice a day; nebuliser 0.5 to 1 mg twice a day. Rinse your mouth after use. It does not relieve a sudden attack.
Your doctor may give you a different dose. Children's doses depend on weight.
Side effects
Common
- hoarse voice
- sore throat
- white patches in the mouth (thrush)
- cough
- nosebleed (nasal spray)
Serious — get help
Stop taking it and see a doctor straight away if you notice:
- worsening wheeze right after use
- severe allergic reaction
- blurred vision with long high-dose use
Do not take it, or take care, if
- Untreated tuberculosis or fungal infection of the lungs (use with caution)
- Not for the relief of a sudden asthma attack
- Do not stop suddenly after long high-dose use without your doctor
Interactions
Medicines that can react with this one.
Moderate2 medicinesTake together only with care. Ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- Itraconazole
Itraconazole raises budesonide levels and can cause steroid side effects.
- Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole raises budesonide levels and can cause steroid side effects.