Has your doctor told you that you have Crohn's disease? Or are you being treated for a condition that causes constant inflammation and pain in your stomach? Then you have probably been prescribed a medicine called ' Budesonide '. The name may sound a little scary, but don't worry. Today, we'll talk about this medicine in a simple and friendly way, how it works, what to be careful about when taking it, and its side effects .
What exactly is Budesonide?
Simply put, Budesonide is a medication that reduces inflammation in your digestive system, especially in your intestines. In conditions like Crohn's disease, our body's immune system attacks our intestines and causes inflammation. Budesonide works by controlling that inflammation.
This belongs to a class of drugs called steroids . However, since it is often formulated to work directly in the intestines, it has relatively little effect on other parts of the body. Your doctor may have prescribed this medication under a brand name like ``Entocort EC''.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although Budesonide is a very useful medication, it can interact with other health conditions you may have. Therefore, it is extremely important to tell your doctor your complete health history before starting this medication .
If you have any of the conditions listed in the table below, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Your health condition or opportunity | Why should I inform you? (Simply) |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | This medicine may increase blood sugar levels. |
| Eye diseases (e.g. glaucoma, cataracts) | Budesonide can increase eye pressure and increase the risk of cataracts. |
| High blood pressure | Blood pressure may increase further. |
| Liver disease | The process of removing this medicine from the liver may be affected. |
| Infections in the body (e.g. tuberculosis (TB), fungi, viruses) | Because this medicine suppresses the immune system, existing infections may worsen. |
| Weakening of bones (Osteoporosis) | Taking this medicine for a long time can make your bones weaker. |
| Stomach ulcers | Stomach ulcers can be slow to heal and may recur. |
| If you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | You should talk to your doctor about the possible effects on the baby and make a decision. |
| If you have recently had or are about to have surgery | This medicine may affect wound healing. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
As the doctor says, it is very important to take the right dose at the right time.
- Swallow the capsule whole: Swallow the medicine whole with a glass of water. Never break, crush, or chew it.
- Special tip: Sometimes, if you have difficulty swallowing a capsule, such as Entocort EC, you can carefully open the capsule, mix the small seeds inside with a tablespoon of applesauce, and swallow them whole without chewing . But ask your doctor before doing this.
- With or without food: This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
- Don't forget this: Do not take this medication with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can change the way the medication is absorbed by the body and increase side effects.
Important: Do not stop taking the medication until your doctor tells you to. It is very important to complete the prescribed course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, do not panic and immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) . Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
When using this medicine, it's best to pay a little more attention to your body.
- Be careful of infections: This medicine may reduce your body's immunity a little. Therefore, the chances of getting sick are higher. If you have symptoms like fever, cold , or sore throat , do not self-medicate and see a doctor. Be careful in crowded places and around sick people.
- Surgery: If you are going to have surgery, be sure to tell the doctor that you are taking Budesonide.
- Blood sugar levels: This medicine may increase blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels regularly.
- Eyesight: Taking this medicine for a long time may affect your eyes. Therefore, have your eyes checked as directed by your doctor. If you notice any changes in your vision, tell your doctor immediately.
- Bone health: Long-term use can cause weak bones (osteoporosis). Talk to your doctor about getting a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medicine, Budesonide can cause side effects in some people. However, not everyone gets them. The important thing is to know what these side effects are and what to do if they occur.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of Cushing syndrome | Fat accumulation in areas such as the stomach, neck, and back, rounding of the face, pink/purple streaks on the skin, thinning of the skin and easy bruising. |
| Increased blood sugar (Hyperglycemia) | Thirst more than usual, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds. |
| Mental changes | Excessive anger, restlessness, depression, suicidal thoughts. |
| Stomach bleeding | Black, tarry stools, vomiting with coffee grounds. |
| Body swelling | Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | Frequent headaches. |
| Nausea | Stomach discomfort, feeling like vomiting. |
| Acne | Acne on the skin. |
| Insomnia | Difficulty falling asleep at night. |
Take-Home Message
- Budesonide is a very important medication used to control intestinal inflammation, such as Crohn's disease.
- Before starting this medication, be sure to tell your doctor about all of your health conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Take the prescribed dose at the prescribed time, exactly as your doctor tells you. Never stop taking your medication or change the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking the medication.
- If you develop signs of infection such as fever, cough, or any other serious side effect, contact your doctor immediately.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to ask your doctor.
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