Do you also use a (Ciclesonide Metered Dose Inhaler - MDI) for asthma? Let's talk about this!

If you have asthma, your doctor may have told you to use an inhaler. There are different types of inhalers. Today we are going to talk about a Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) that contains a medicine called Ciclesonide. This is a medicine that many people use to help control their asthma. So, let's take a look at it in more detail.

What is this medicine called `(Ciclesonide)`?

Simply put, `(Ciclesonide)` is a medicine that helps prevent your asthma symptoms from coming on. It is called a `` controller inhaler`` . This means that it is not used when you suddenly have an asthma attack, but is used daily to control your asthma.

Think of our airways as small tubes. When you have asthma, these tubes become swollen or inflamed. It becomes difficult to breathe. This medicine (Ciclesonide) helps reduce the swelling (inflammation) in those airways and makes it easier to breathe. It is an inhaled steroid.

The most important thing is, do not use this for a sudden asthma attack. In such cases, you should use the quick-relief ``rescue inhaler`` that your doctor has given you.

This medicine may also be used for other purposes. If you have any questions about this, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What should I tell my doctor before using this medicine?

Before you start using this `(Ciclesonide)` inhaler, it is very important to tell your doctor about your health conditions. Especially if you have any of the following:

• If you have glaucoma, a condition in which pressure in the eyes increases.
• If there is any weakness in your body's immune system .
• If you have any kind of infection , especially viral infections like chickenpox and herpes.
• If there is a wound in the mouth or throat.
• If you have osteoporosis (a disease that weakens the bones).
• If you are already using another steroid medication, such as Dexamethasone or Prednisone .
• If you have recently had any surgery.
• If you have had an allergic reaction to this medicine (Ciclesonide), other medicines, foods, artificial colours, or food preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or expecting a baby.
• If you are a mother who is breastfeeding a baby.

By knowing these things in advance, it will be easier for the doctor to decide whether you can safely use this medication or whether you need to find an alternative.

So, how exactly do you use this inhaler?

This is a medicine that is inhaled through the mouth. It is very important to know how to use it correctly.

1. After using the medicine, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and spit it out. Do not swallow the water. Do you know why you do this? This is to reduce the risk of fungal infections such as ``Thrush``, which causes white patches in the mouth.

2. Use this medicine at the same time every day , exactly as your doctor prescribed.

3. Do not use more than the recommended amount.

4. Continue using this until your doctor tells you to stop.

There is an INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE leaflet in the box that comes with this medicine. Read it carefully. It is best to ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain exactly how to use the inhaler.

If this medicine is given to children: Children as young as 6 years old can be given this medicine in some selected cases. However, there are some special considerations to be taken into account. Therefore, talk to your doctor about it.

Oh, what do I do if I miss my medication?

Oh, don't panic at that time. Take your missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose. Never take two doses at the same time. Doing so may increase the dose.

What happens if you take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, call a poison control center or the nearest hospital emergency room immediately.

Remember, this medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not let anyone else use it.

What other things can interact with this medicine?

Some medications, foods, and drinks can interact with this `(Ciclesonide)` inhaler, meaning they can affect each other. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about everything you are taking. For example:

• `(Clarithromycin)` ( Clarithromycin )
• `(Erythromycin)` (Erythromycin)
• `(Grapefruit juice)` (Grapefruit juice - the juice of a large lime)
• `(Itraconazole)` (Itraconazole)
• `(Ketoconazole)` (Ketoconazole)

This list is not exhaustive. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you take (prescribed by your doctor or purchased from a pharmacy), herbal products, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you use, as well as if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some things may interact with your medication.

Things you need to be careful about when using this medicine

It's a good idea to be a little careful about your health when using this inhaler.

• See your doctor regularly to check your condition. Your doctor can then see if the medication is working properly for you and if any changes need to be made.
• If your asthma symptoms don't improve, or seem to be getting worse, tell your doctor.
• Very important: Never use this inhaler for an acute asthma attack. In such cases, you should use your short-acting rescue inhaler.
• If your asthma symptoms are getting worse, or you need to use your quick-relief inhaler more often , call your doctor right away.
• You and your doctor should work together to create an asthma action plan that works for you. This will give you a clear idea of ​​what to do when your asthma is getting worse (yellow zone) and what to do if your asthma is getting worse and you have an emergency (red zone).
• When using this medicine, you may be at slightly increased risk of developing infections. Therefore, if you develop symptoms such as fever, chills, sore throat, or a cold, seek medical advice. Do not self-medicate. Try to stay away from people who are sick.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Like all medicines, this one can cause some side effects, but not everyone gets them.

Side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, swelling (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat).
• Low adrenal gland function: This can cause nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling unusually tired, and dizziness.
• Thrush is a fungal infection that causes white patches in the mouth.
• If you feel worse or have difficulty breathing after using the inhaler.

Side effects that usually do not require medical advice (but should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome):

• Change in taste in the mouth
• Cough
• Headache (headache)
• Hoarseness
• Runny nose (snot) or stuffy nose
• Sore throat

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, ask your doctor.

How do you keep this inhaler safe?

It is also very important to store your medication properly.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Keep the inhaler away from extreme heat, extreme cold, or humidity.
• Discard the inhaler when the dose counter on the inhaler reads "0" or when the expiration date has passed (whichever comes first).

What do you do with used and expired inhalers?

It's not a good idea to just throw unused, expired medicine in the trash.

• If there is a medication take-back program, give it to it. You can ask your pharmacy or the police about such places.
• If this is not possible, ask your pharmacist or doctor how to safely dispose of this medicine.

Finally, the most important thing to remember

If you are using this `(Ciclesonide)` inhaler, it is very important to remember these things:

• This is a ``controller`` inhaler for asthma, not a ``rescue`` one for use in an emergency.
• Use it correctly and at the right time, as the doctor says.
• Don't forget to rinse your mouth.
• If you experience any side effects or notice any changes, tell your doctor.
• Be well-informed about your Asthma Action Plan.
• If you have any questions about your medication, never be afraid to ask your doctor or pharmacist.

We hope this information helps you manage your asthma well and stay healthy!

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