Alvesco once-a-day inhaler for asthma.

How does it work?

Alvesco aerosol inhaler contains the active ingredient ciclesonide, which is a type of medicine known as a corticosteroid. Ciclesonide is a synthetic corticosteroid and is used to decrease inflammation in the lungs. When ciclesonide is inhaled into your lungs it is absorbed into the cells of the lungs and airways. It is here that Alvesco is activated and prevents the release of certain chemicals from the cells. These chemicals are important in the immune system and are usually involved in creating immune and allergic responses that can result in inflammation. Therefore by decreasing the release of these chemicals in the lungs and airways, inflammation is reduced. Inhaling Alvesco allows it to act directly in the lungs where it is needed most. It also reduces the potential for side effects occurring in other parts of the body, as the amount absorbed into the blood through the lungs is lower than if it is taken by mouth.

How does Alvesco work on asthma?

In asthma, the airways tighten due to inflammation and can also be blocked by mucus. This makes it hard for air to get in and out of your lungs. By preventing the inflammation and excess mucus formation, Alvesco makes it easier to breathe and helps prevent asthma attacks.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic disease in which sufferers have repeated attacks of difficulty in breathing and coughing. Asthma can be triggered by external agents, such as irritants in the atmosphere which are breathed in, or by internal reactions within the body that have been caused by an external influence. To acquire asthma, people seem to need to have been born with a predisposition to the disease. It may not reveal itself until they have been exposed to some asthma irritants.

What do I need to know about Alvesco?

• This medicine is known as a preventer and it should be taken regularly to prevent asthma attacks. Alvesco should not be used to relieve an asthma attack.
• Do not exceed the dose of this medicine that your doctor has prescribed for you.
• Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor suggests otherwise, as your asthma symptoms are likely to return.
• Use with caution if you have active or inactive tuberculosis infection of the lungs, other lung infections, or severely decreased liver function.
• Alvesco should be used with caution during pregnancy and only if the benefits outweigh any risks to the fetus.

What about side effects?

Because a side effect is listed here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

• Unexpected narrowing of the airways
• Bad taste
• Throat irritation
• Dry mouth or throat
• Hoarseness
• Cough
• Rash
• Eczema

If side effects persist or worsen while taking Alvesco contact your doctor right away.