Entocort EC

budesonide

Budesonide Oral

What is budesonide?

Budesonide is a corticosteroid medication. Corticosteroids are a type of steroid hormone that reduces inflammation throughout the body. It works by suppressing the immune system's response, thereby decreasing swelling, redness, and irritation.

Primarily, budesonide is used to treat mild to moderate Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. It helps manage the inflammation in the digestive tract, easing symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Budesonide may also be prescribed for other inflammatory conditions, but this should always be under the direction of a physician. Always check with your doctor before using budesonide for any condition beyond its labeled uses.

Important Information

Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor and pharmacist. Carefully read the medication label and package insert. Be sure to inform all your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies (including drug allergies), and all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently taking. This ensures the safest and most effective treatment.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use budesonide if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. An allergic reaction can range from mild (rash, itching) to severe (difficulty breathing, swelling). If you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to a medication, it’s vital to disclose this to your doctor.

Before starting budesonide, tell your doctor if you have or have had:

• Tuberculosis (TB), either currently active or in the past.

• A serious infection, such as a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. Budesonide can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.

• A weakened immune system due to illness or medication. This includes HIV/AIDS, cancer treatments, or other immunosuppressants.

• High blood pressure. Budesonide can potentially worsen high blood pressure.

• Cirrhosis or other liver disease. The liver plays a role in processing budesonide, and liver impairment can affect how it works in your body.

• A stomach ulcer or history of ulcers. Steroids can increase the risk of ulcers.

• Osteoporosis or low bone mineral density. Long-term use of corticosteroids can increase the risk of bone thinning.

• Eczema or other skin conditions.

• Any allergies to medications, food, or environmental substances.

• A personal or family history of diabetes, cataracts, or glaucoma. These conditions can be affected by corticosteroid use.

Pregnancy: It's unknown if budesonide harms a developing fetus. Discuss this with your doctor before taking budesonide if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding: Budesonide passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing infant. You should not breastfeed while using this medication.

Children: Budesonide is not approved for use in children under 18 years of age.

How should I take budesonide?

Always follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and instructions. Do not adjust the dose yourself or take it for longer than prescribed. Incorrect usage can negatively impact treatment effectiveness and potentially lead to side effects.

Typically, budesonide is taken orally in the morning with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules or tablets; swallow them whole. This ensures proper absorption and avoids irritation to the mouth or throat.

Your dosage might need adjustment during periods of stress, illness, or if you undergo surgery. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Contact your doctor if your symptoms don't improve or worsen during treatment. This is important for ensuring the medication is working effectively or exploring alternative treatment options if necessary.

Budesonide can weaken your immune system. Report any signs of infection (fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, vomiting) to your doctor immediately.

Long-term use may require regular medical checkups and tests to monitor your overall health and assess any potential side effects.

Store budesonide at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What should I avoid while taking budesonide?

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with budesonide, potentially causing harmful effects. Avoid these products during treatment. This is due to the effect grapefruit has on the enzymes that metabolize the medication.

Minimize contact with people who are sick or have infections. If exposed to chicken pox or measles, call your doctor for preventive treatment. These infections can be particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.

Budesonide side effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Contact your doctor immediately if you have:

• Thinning skin, easy bruising, increased acne, or excessive facial hair.

• Ankle swelling.

• Weakness, fatigue, lightheadedness, or feelings of fainting.

• Nausea, vomiting, or rectal bleeding.

• Pain or burning during urination.

• Menstrual problems (women), impotence, or decreased sex drive (men).

• Stretch marks or changes in body fat distribution (particularly in the face, neck, back, and waist).

Common side effects may include:

• Headache

• Nausea, stomach pain, gas, bloating, constipation

• Fatigue

• Joint pain

• Acne

• Cold symptoms (stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat)

This isn't a complete list of potential side effects. Report any unusual or bothersome side effects to your doctor.

What other drugs will affect budesonide?

Many medications can interact with budesonide, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Always inform your healthcare providers of all medications you’re taking, whether you've started, stopped, or are currently using.