Pulmicort Turbuhaler
Overview
- About Pulmicort Turbuhaler
Pronounced: PULL-mi-cort
Generic name: Budesonide
Why is Pulmicort Turbuhaler prescribed?
Budesonide, the active ingredient in Pulmicort Turbuhaler, is an anti-inflammatory steroid medication. Inhaled on a regular basis, Pulmicort helps prevent asthma attacks. It is sometimes prescribed in addition to oral steroids, and may reduce or eliminate the need for them.
Pulmicort Turbuhaler is used to treat asthma in adults and children over age 6. Children 12 months to 8 years of age can be treated with another form of budesonide, Pulmicort Respules, which is given by nebulizer. Both types of Pulmicort are preventive medicines. They will not relieve an acute or life-threatening episode of asthma.
Most important fact about Pulmicort Turbuhaler
Because steroids can suppress the immune system, people taking Pulmicort may become more susceptible to infections, and their infections could be more severe. If you are taking Pulmicort, avoid exposure to infectious diseases such as chickenpox and measles. If you are exposed, contact your doctor immediately.
How should you take Pulmicort Turbuhaler?
Use Pulmicort Turbuhaler exactly as directed. The effectiveness of this medication depends on its regular use. Your doctor will prescribe the lowest effective dose. Do not take more or less medication than the amount prescribed. When starting therapy, carefully read the instructions that come with the inhaler. Your asthma symptoms may begin to improve in 24 hours, although you may not see the maximum benefit for 1 to 2 weeks or longer. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, contact your doctor.
Pulmicort Turbuhaler delivers a dose of medication in dry powder form. To assure the correct dose, the inhaler must be held in an upright position, with the mouthpiece on top, during priming and loading.
Before its first use, each new inhaler must be primed. To prime the inhaler, hold it upright and turn the brown grip fully to the right, then fully to the left until it clicks. Repeat this procedure a second time. The unit is now primed.
