Pulmicort Nebules (Budesonide)

Do’s

• Before starting to use Pulmicort Nebules and each time you get a refill, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist.
• Pulmicort Nebules should be administered using a nebulizer, which is a machine that turns the medication into a fine mist that can be inhaled. The nebulizer should be a compressed air jet nebulizer with a face mask or mouthpiece.
• The dosage of Pulmicort Nebules is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The medication comes in different strengths; check that you are using the correct strength.
• Inhale Pulmicort Nebules by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily. While inhaling the medication, breathe calmly and deeply until the mist stops, usually over 5 to 10 minutes.
• To prevent dry mouth, hoarseness, and oral yeast infections, gargle and rinse your mouth with water after each use. Additionally, wash your face where the face mask or mouthpiece has touched your skin to prevent skin reactions and irritation.
• Use Pulmicort Nebules regularly to get the most benefit from it. Use it at the same time(s) each day to help you remember.
• Learn which inhalers or medications you should use every day as controller drugs and which ones to use for sudden worsening of breathing as quick-relief drugs. Consult your healthcare provider to understand what to do in case of new or worsening symptoms.

Don’ts

• Do not swallow the rinse water. 
• Do not increase your dose, use it more often, or stop using the medication without consulting your healthcare provider first.
• If you are regularly taking a different corticosteroid by mouth, such as prednisone, do not stop taking it unless directed by your healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping the drug may worsen certain conditions. Your healthcare provider may gradually lower the dose of your old medication after you begin using Pulmicort Nebules.

Common Side Effects:

• Thrush
• Cough or hoarseness
• Nasal congestion
• Headache

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. If you have any concerns about the side effects of Pulmicort Nebules, consult with your healthcare provider.

Pulmicort Nebules should not be used with an ultrasonic nebulizer. 

Do not mix Pulmicort Nebules with other medications in the nebulizer cup (reservoir).

A parent or other responsible adult should supervise a child who is using Pulmicort Nebules with a nebulizer.

In rare cases, Pulmicort Nebules may increase the risk of respiratory infections. If you experience symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.

Pulmicort Nebules, like other inhaled corticosteroid products, may impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, especially in susceptible individuals, younger children, and patients given high doses for prolonged periods.

Rarely, Pulmicort Nebules may be associated with eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, and increased intraocular pressure.

This is not an exhaustive list of warnings and precautions. If you have any concerns or questions about the use of Pulmicort Nebules, consult with your healthcare provider.