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Budesonide
This page contains brief details about the drug budesonide, it’s indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.
Background and Date of Approval
Budesonide contains an active ingredient named Budesonide. It is a synthetic glucocorticoid medication used as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agent. It can also help prevent asthma attacks and reduce the need for rescue inhalers. A healthcare provider will monitor your symptoms and perform blood tests periodically while taking Budesonide to ensure it works effectively and check for any potential side effects. Additionally, if you take this medication to treat inflammatory bowel disease, your healthcare provider may recommend dietary changes to help manage your symptoms. Budesonide should not be used in people who are hypersensitive or allergic to the medication or its ingredients. The FDA approval date for budesonide as an inhalation aerosol for the treatment of asthma was December 22, 1993.
Mechanism of Action of Budesonide
The effectiveness of budesonide stems from its ability to reduce inflammation in the body. In conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and eosinophilic esophagitis, budesonide helps alleviate inflammation in the airways, lungs, or intestines. This can lead to improvements in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and difficulty swallowing.
Uses of Budesonide
Budesonide is mainly used as an inhaler to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by reducing airway inflammation. Additionally, it is used as a nasal spray to alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis and as a rectal foam or enema to treat inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Budesonide Drug administaration and Dosage available
To use a budesonide inhaler, shake it well and breathe out fully. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth and inhale deeply and slowly while pressing down on the inhaler to release the medication. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly.
For budesonide nasal spray, which treats allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps, shake the bottle well and gently blow your nose before use.
Budesonide capsules or tablets are taken orally to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Typically, the medication is taken once a day, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole without crushing or chewing it.
Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of Budesonide
Warnings
Budesonide has several warnings that should be taken into consideration before use. It can cause serious side effects, including adrenal suppression, immune system suppression, and increased risk of infection. Long-term use may also increase the risk of osteoporosis, cataracts, and glaucoma. It may also cause psychiatric effects such as depression, anxiety, and behavioural changes. Patients with a history of liver disease or tuberculosis should use budesonide with caution, as it may worsen these conditions.
Precautions
Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking, and monitor blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. Patients should avoid contact with people with contagious illnesses and report any signs of infection to their healthcare provider immediately.
Side Effects
Budesonide can cause side effects such as dry mouth, sore throat, hoarseness, cough, headache, and nausea. Rarely, it can cause more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions, increased risk of infections, and adrenal suppression (which can occur with long-term use at high doses).
Word Of Advice
Budesonide is a medication that should not be used without consulting a healthcare provider. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unexpected side effects. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before using this medication. Individuals with diabetes should closely monitor their blood sugar levels while using budesonide, as it can affect blood glucose levels. Budesonide is not a rescue medication and should not be used as a substitute for fast-acting bronchodilators like albuterol. This medication should not replace healthy lifestyle practices. If you have a current infection or are at high risk of developing one, your healthcare provider may recommend closer monitoring or adjusting your treatment plan. For any concerns or questions about your digestive health, it is best to consult a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Question
While there have been some studies on using budesonide in COVID-19 patients, it is not currently recommended as a treatment for the virus. It is important to follow guidance from healthcare providers and public health officials regarding COVID-19 treatment and prevention.
Budesonide is sometimes used to treat nasal symptoms associated with allergies or sinusitis, but it is not typically used to treat sinus infections. Other medications or treatments may be more effective for treating sinus infections.
Weight gain is not a common side effect, but it is possible. Discussing this with your healthcare provider is important if you experience unexplained weight gain while taking this medicine.
High blood pressure is not a common side effect of budesonide. However, corticosteroids like it can increase blood pressure in some people, especially with long-term use or in higher doses.
Budesonide is sometimes used to treat vocal cord dysfunction, a condition that can cause breathing difficulties due to the abnormal movement of the vocal cords.
Disclaimer
The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.