Budesonide helps alleviate constant runny nose, sneezing and itching associated with allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the inside lining of the nose caused by allergens).
This medicine may also be used to treat nasal polyps (small growths on the inside lining of your nose).
Use Budesonide exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.
This medicine is available as a nasal spray.
To use the nasal spray, follow these steps:
- If you are using Budesonide nasal spray for the first time or if you have not used the spray for a long period, remove the cap and press the pump a few times (usually about 5-10 times), and spray into the air until it releases a fine mist. If you are using this medicine at shorter intervals, you may press the pump just once into the air to get an even spray before using.
- Blow your nose gently to clear your nostril before using the nasal spray.
- Shake the bottle well and remove the protective cap.
- Hold the bottle straight and upright, then place the nozzle into your nostril.
- Spray into the nostril while breathing in slowly through your nose. Take the nozzle out and breath out through your mouth.
- Repeat steps to spray into the other nostril. If more than one dose is required for each nostril, alternate the sprays between nostrils.
- After using your spray, wipe the nozzle with a clean tissue and replace the protective cap.
Make sure you know how to use your nasal spray. If you have problems or do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Avoid any contact of the mist with your eyes. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine accidentally gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyesight.
Do not share your nasal spray with others as it could spread infections.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on your condition and response to the medication.
Budesonide must be used regularly for it to be effective. Continue using this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop using it suddenly as it may worsen your condition.
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose to make up for the missed dose.
If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- recent nasal ulceration or surgery
- nasal injury that has not yet fully healed
- heavy or frequent nose bleeding
- eye infection or eye disease e.g. glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), cataract (clouding of the lens of the eye)
- active or a history of TB (infection known as tuberculosis)
- untreated infections
- diabetes
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Budesonide to a child.
Avoid exposure to anyone who is infected with chickenpox or measles. If you are exposed to these infections, inform your doctor immediately.
If you are going to undergo a laboratory test (e.g. ACTH stimulation test), or an operation, including minor surgery or dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are using Budesonide.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. Monitoring for growth rate, and signs and symptoms of infections, or visual disturbances may be needed while you are being treated with this medicine.
Budesonide may cause any of the following side effects: nose bleeds, nose dryness, irritation or stinging sensation, or sneezing.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- rashes, breathlessness, swollen face, eyes, tongue or throat
- blurring of your vision or other visual disturbances
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience any other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for HIV infection e.g. ritonavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, cobicistat
- medicines to treat fungal infection e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole
- certain antibiotics e.g. clarithromycin
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Budesonide.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Store the bottle in an upright position in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light, heat and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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