Are you also someone who suffers from Crohn's disease and the discomfort it causes, such as stomach pain and inflammation? Then your doctor may have prescribed you to use this medicine called Budesonide. When you hear this name, you may be a little unfamiliar. "What medicine is this? Is it good for the body? What does it do?" Many questions may come to mind. Don't worry. Today, let's talk about what Budesonide is, how it works, and what you need to be aware of when using it.
What kind of medicine is Budesonide?
Simply put, Budesonide is a special medicine that is given to control inflammation in the intestines, such as Crohn's disease. It is a type of steroid . Now, some people are afraid of steroids, but it is very useful when used correctly under the advice of a doctor.
Imagine that you have a small fire in your intestines. This is what happens in Crohn's disease. Budesonide works by extinguishing the fire. Then the symptoms you feel, such as stomach pain and bloating, gradually decrease. This medicine is sometimes given even after the symptoms are controlled and to prevent flare-ups.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before starting Budesonide, it is very important to give your doctor a complete picture of your health. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Your health condition | Why is it important to inform about it? |
|---|---|
| Any active infection (fever, cough, worms) | This medicine slightly reduces immunity, which may increase the risk of infections. |
| Cataracts or Glaucoma | Steroid medications can affect eye pressure. |
| Diabetes | Budesonide can increase blood sugar levels. |
| High blood pressure | Blood pressure may increase further. |
| If you have had stomach ulcers | The medicine may affect the stomach. |
| Liver disease | Because the liver removes medication from the body, its effects may change during illness. |
| Osteoporosis (bone thinning) | Long-term steroid use can affect bones. |
| If you are pregnant or expecting a baby | You need to talk to the doctor about the effects of the medicine and make a decision. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother | Discuss with your doctor whether the medicine will pass to your baby through breast milk. |
How to use the medicine correctly?
This is the most important part. To get the most out of the medicine, you need to take it exactly as prescribed.
- Swallow the capsule whole: Swallow the medicine with a glass of water. Never break, crush, or chew the capsule. These are made for "extended-release." This means that the medicine is released slowly in the intestines. If you break it, the medicine will go into your body all at once, which can increase side effects and may not work as well.
- Take in the morning: This medication is usually taken once a day, in the morning. Take it at the same time as your doctor tells you.
- Do not take with grapefruit: This may seem like a strange advice, but it is very important. Do not take this medication with grapefruit juice. It can change the way the medication is absorbed into the body.
- With or without food: This medicine can be taken before or after food. However, if you experience stomach discomfort, it is best to take the medicine with a small meal.
- Do not stop suddenly: Never stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. Doing so can cause discomfort to your body. If you do stop, do so gradually, as your doctor tells you.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much 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.
What if I miss a dose?
Yes, it can happen. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take two doses at once for any reason.
Other things that can interact with Budesonide
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, as well as vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbs you use. Budesonide may interact with the following, in particular:
- Some antiviral drugs for HIV or Hepatitis
- Some antibiotics like Clarithromycin and Erythromycin
- Antifungal medications like Ketoconazole and Itraconazole
- Cyclosporine
- Cimetidine
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice
This list is not complete, so it's safest to tell your doctor about everything you're taking.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- Be careful with your immune system: This medicine may slightly weaken your immune system. Therefore, stay away from people who have a disease like chickenpox or measles. If you have a wound that doesn't heal, tell your doctor.
- Blood sugar levels: If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels regularly while taking this medicine, as it may cause high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia).
- Surgery: If you are having any surgery, be sure to inform the surgeon that you are taking Budesonide.
- Keep an ID card with you: If you are taking this medication for a long time, it is a good idea to keep a card with your name, address, the name and dosage of the medication, and your doctor's details.
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medicine, Budesonide can cause some side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it is important to be aware of them.
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue. |
| Cushing syndrome | Fat deposits on the stomach, neck, and upper back (moon face), pink/purple streaks on the skin, and thin skin that bruises easily. |
| Increased blood sugar (Hyperglycemia) | Thirst more than usual, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, blurred vision. |
| Increased blood pressure | Severe headache, chest pain. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds. |
| Mental changes | Anxiety, irritability, depression, insomnia. |
| Swelling of hands, feet, and ankles | Swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the body. |
Things to tell your doctor if they are usually not serious, but are bothersome:
- Acne
- Headache
- Nausea
- Body discomfort and fatigue
- Weight gain
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, it is best to talk to your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- Budesonide is a steroid that controls inflammation of the intestines, such as Crohn's disease.
- Never break, crush, or chew this medicine capsule. Swallow it whole.
- Take the medicine in the morning. Avoid taking it with grapefruit juice.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you take and any other medical conditions you have.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of infection (fever, cough), severe mental changes, or other serious side effects while taking the medicine.
- Avoid stopping the medication suddenly without your doctor's advice.
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