Pulmicort Turbuhaler

If you have previously been taking oral steroids, the usual starting dose is 400 to 800 milligrams twice a day. The maximum long-term dosage is 800 milligrams twice daily.

If you are taking oral steroids, you will continue to do so while starting Pulmicort Turbuhaler. After one week, the doctor will lower your dose of oral steroids, then gradually lower it further at one- or two-week intervals.

CHILDREN AGE 6 AND OLDER

As with adults, the child's usual dosage depends on previous treatments.

If the child has previously been using only a fast-acting bronchodilator the usual starting dose is 200 milligrams twice a day. The maximum long-term dosage is 400 milligrams twice daily.

If the child has previously been using inhaled steroids, the usual starting dose is 200 milligrams twice daily. (A once-a-day dose of 200 or 400 milligrams may be prescribed instead.) The maximum long-term dosage is 400 milligrams twice daily.

If the child has previously been taking oral steroids, the highest recommended dose is 400 milligrams taken twice a day. As with adults, the dosage of oral steroids will be gradually reduced while the child continues to take Pulmicort.

Overdosage

Excessive doses of steroid medications taken for long periods can stunt growth or cause a condition called Cushing's syndrome. Symptoms of this condition include weight gain, a "moon face," muscle wasting, weakness, and poor wound healing. If you think a problem is developing, check with your doctor immediately.