Do you also have asthma? It must be very difficult to do your daily activities due to the constant wheezing and difficulty breathing, right? Doctors usually recommend two types of inhalers for such people. One is the 'Reliever' inhaler, which is used when asthma suddenly worsens. The other is the 'Controller' inhaler, which keeps the asthma under control and prevents attacks. Today we are going to talk about the inhaler containing the drug Budesonide, which belongs to this second type and is used by many people.
What actually happens with this inhaler?
Simply put, Budesonide is a medicine that belongs to a class of medicines called 'inhaled steroids' . It works by reducing the inflammation and sensitivity in the airways that connect your lungs. When this inflammation is reduced, the airways open up and it becomes much easier to breathe.
The most important thing is that this is a controller inhaler that prevents and controls asthma symptoms. It is used to keep asthma at a good level in the long term. It will not help to use it for a sudden asthma attack. In such a case, you should use the 'Reliever' (e.g. Salbutamol) inhaler that your doctor has prescribed.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this
Before prescribing Budesonide inhaler to you, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Health condition/problem | Description |
|---|---|
| Allergies | If you have previously had an allergy to budesonide, other steroids, other medicines, foods or preservatives. |
| Current infections | Especially if you have a viral infection like chickenpox, herpes, or any other type of infection in your body. |
| Eye diseases | If you have eye diseases such as glaucoma. |
| Bone weakness | If you have a bone thinning disease such as osteoporosis. |
| Use of other medications | If you are using other steroids like Prednisone. |
| Other points | If you have recently had surgery, have a problem with your immune system, are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother. |
How exactly do you use this?
The only way to get the most out of this inhaler is to use it correctly.
1. Correct technique: Read the instructions that come with each inhaler carefully. Prepare the inhaler as directed and take a deep breath in through your mouth. If you are unsure how to use it, ask your doctor for instructions.
2. Rinse your mouth: After using the inhaler, be sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out. Do not swallow the water. This is to prevent things like thrush from developing in your mouth and throat.
3. Time of day: Take this medicine at the same time every day as prescribed by your doctor. If taking it twice a day, take it at the same time in the morning and evening.
4. With other inhalers: If you have been given a 'Reliever' inhaler (e.g. Albuterol, Salbutamol) and need to use both inhalers at the same time, use the 'Reliever' inhaler first . Then, wait about 5 minutes, and use this Budesonide inhaler.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
Suppose you forget to take your morning dose. Take it as soon as you remember. But if it is only a few hours before your next dose (the evening dose) when you remember, skip the missed dose and take the evening dose at the scheduled time. Do not take a double dose for any reason.
What if it is used too much?
If you think you have used too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using
- Regular check-ups: Keep seeing your doctor to check your condition. If your symptoms don't improve or get worse, tell your doctor.
- Asthma Action Plan: You and your doctor can work together to create a personalized 'Asthma Action Plan' that will help you understand what to do when your asthma is getting worse (yellow zone) and when you need to seek immediate medical attention (red zone).
- Protection from infections: Your immunity may be slightly reduced when using this medicine. So try to stay away from people who are sick. If you experience symptoms like fever, cold, or sore throat, do not self-medicate and see a doctor.
Side effects of the medicine
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. However, most people do not experience serious side effects.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Breathing difficulties | If you experience increased difficulty breathing or wheezing after using the inhaler. |
| Fungal infections of the mouth (Thrush) | White spots inside the mouth. |
| Decreased adrenal function | Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, extreme fatigue, dizziness. |
| Other features | Symptoms of a cold or flu such as fever, body aches, headache, pain or numbness in the limbs. |
| Usually nothing to worry about (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Throat allergy | Hoarseness |
| Cough | Feeling a change in taste |
| Runny nose or stuffy nose | |
Storing medicine
- Keep your inhaler out of the reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not store in areas with excessive heat, cold, or humidity.
- Throw away the inhaler when the dose counter reads "0" or when the expiration date has passed.
Take-Home Message
- Budesonide is a long-term controller inhaler for asthma. It cannot be used for an asthma attack.
- After using the inhaler, be sure to rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.
- Inform your doctor about any other medical conditions you have or any other medications you are taking.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at the same time.
- If you experience increased difficulty breathing or other serious allergic symptoms after using the inhaler, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions or concerns about your asthma, talk to your doctor.
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