Pulmicort Respules

If the child experiences a period of stress or a severe asthma attack during the switch to Pulmicort, begin giving the oral medication again (in large doses) and contact your doctor immediately. The child should carry a medical identification card indicating that he or she may need additional medication during periods of stress or a severe asthma attack.

Transfer from oral steroids to Pulmicort may unmask allergic conditions previously controlled by the oral drugs, such as nasal inflammation, conjunctivitis (pinkeye), and eczema. Transfer from oral steroids may also be accompanied by withdrawal symptoms, including joint or muscle pain, fatigue, and depression, even while Pulmicort is improving the child's asthma symptoms.

Like other inhaled asthma medications, Pulmicort occasionally triggers an asthma attack. If this occurs, immediately administer a fast-acting inhaled bronchodilator, stop using Pulmicort, and contact your doctor. The youngster will need to switch to a different asthma medication. Also alert your doctor immediately if the usual doses of the child's fast-acting bronchodilator no longer work. Oral steroids may be needed for a while.

Steroid medications can stunt growth in children and teenagers. Your doctor will prescribe the lowest effective dose of Pulmicort in order to minimize this problem, and will monitor the child's growth carefully.

While using this medication, some people develop fungal infections in the mouth and throat. If this occurs, the doctor can prescribe antifungal medication while the child continues to use Pulmicort. Individuals with tuberculosis, ocular herpes simplex, or any untreated fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection should use inhaled steroids with caution. Caution is also in order if the child has liver disease.

In rare instances, inhaled steroids have been known to cause glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) and cataracts.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Pulmicort Respules

If Pulmicort is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either can be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Pulmicort with ketoconazole (Nizoral).