Rhinocort

budesonide

Brand(s):

• Budenase AQ

Manufacturer:

• Cipla Limited

Disease(s):

• Allergy

Budesonide Nasal Spray

What is Budesonide Nasal Spray?

Budesonide nasal spray is a medication containing budesonide, a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids work by preventing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. This makes budesonide effective in treating nasal symptoms associated with both seasonal and year-round allergies, such as congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. It's also used to prevent the regrowth of nasal polyps after surgical removal. Keep in mind that this information is for general knowledge and shouldn't replace advice from a healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medication.

Important Information to Discuss with Your Doctor Before Use

You should not use budesonide if you have a known allergy to budesonide or any of its components. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor about your medical history, including:

• Any recent illnesses or infections. Treatment might need to be postponed until you're fully recovered.
• Allergies to any medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• Pre-existing conditions such as:
  • Liver disease
  • Glaucoma or cataracts
  • Herpes simplex virus affecting the eyes
  • Tuberculosis or other infections
  • Sores or ulcers inside the nose
  • Recent nasal injury or surgery
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding plans. Budesonide is categorized as FDA pregnancy category B, meaning it's not expected to harm an unborn baby, but it's crucial to discuss this with your doctor. The effects on breastfeeding infants are unknown, so inform your doctor if you're breastfeeding.

How to Use Budesonide Nasal Spray

Always follow your doctor's prescribed dosage and instructions precisely. Do not exceed the recommended amount or duration of treatment. The typical dose is 1 to 4 sprays in each nostril once daily, but your doctor will determine the right dosage for you.

Priming the Pump: Before the first use, and after any period of non-use longer than 2 days, prime the pump. Shake the bottle well and release 8 test sprays into the air away from your face until a fine mist appears. If more than 2 weeks have passed, rinse the applicator and prime with 2 test sprays.

Shake the bottle well before each use. It may take up to two weeks to see improvement in your symptoms. Continue using the medication as directed, even if symptoms improve quickly. If there’s no improvement after a week, consult your doctor.

Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the medication isn't causing any harmful effects. Follow-up appointments are crucial.

Storage: Store the spray upright at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Discard the bottle after 120 sprays, regardless of the remaining medication.

What if I Miss a Dose?

Take the medication as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Potential Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including:

• HIV/AIDS medications like nelfinavir (Viracept) or ritonavir (Norvir)
• Antibiotics such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Erythrocin), or troleandomycin (Tao)
• Antifungal medications like itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• SSRI antidepressants such as fluoxetine (Prozac), fluvoxamine (Luvox), or paroxetine (Paxil)
• Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Etrafon), amoxapine (Ascendin), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), doxepin (Sinequan), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), protriptyline (Vivactil), or trimipramine (Surmontil)

This is not an exhaustive list. Disclose all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, to your doctor to avoid potential interactions.

Things to Watch For While Using Budesonide

Regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial to monitor for any adverse effects on your nose and sinuses. Don't miss scheduled appointments.

Budesonide may reduce the number of blood cells that fight infections; therefore, avoid close contact with sick individuals. If exposed to chickenpox or measles, seek preventive treatment from your doctor immediately. These diseases can be serious or even life-threatening for those using budesonide.

Avoid getting budesonide in your eyes. If this occurs, rinse thoroughly with water and contact your doctor.

In children, steroid medications can affect growth. Discuss any concerns about your child's growth rate with your doctor.

Possible Side Effects

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

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious side effects:

• Severe or persistent nosebleeds
• Nose sores that don't heal
• Wheezing or breathing difficulties
• Vision problems
• Fever, chills, body aches, or flu-like symptoms

Less serious side effects may include:

• Dry or sore throat, cough
• Nasal irritation
• Throat pain, swelling, burning, itching, or irritation
• Sores or white patches inside or around the nose

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects. Consult your doctor for any concerns about side effects. You can report side effects to the relevant regulatory authority in your country.