Budesonide nasal spray

What is this medicine?

BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) nasal spray is a corticosteroid. It helps decrease inflammation in your nose. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of allergies like sneezing, itching, and runny or stuffy nose.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use in the nose. Follow the directions on your prescription label. This medicine works best if used regularly. Do not use more often than directed.

Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. You will get an information sheet with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. This sheet may change.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine has been used in children as young as 6 years of age.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• wheezing

• white patches or sores in the nose

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• burning, irritation or pain in the nose or throat

• cough

• headache

• nosebleed

• slow growth in children

What may interact with this medicine?

• cimetidine

• clarithromycin

• erythromycin

• itraconazole

• ketoconazole

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F) in an upright position. Do not freeze. Throw away the canister after 120 sprays or after the expiration date, whichever comes first.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• glaucoma

• infection, like tuberculosis, herpes, or fungal infection

• liver disease

• recent surgery or injury of nose or sinuses

• taking corticosteroids by mouth

• an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, other steroids, or any other food or medicine, sulfites, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve in 2 weeks of regular use or if they get worse. Do not stop using your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.

Do not come in contact with people who have chickenpox or the measles while you are taking this medicine. If you do, call your doctor right away.