Budesonide
Budesonide Inhalation powder
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) is a corticosteroid. It helps to decrease inflammation in your lungs. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of asthma. Never use this medicine for an acute asthma attack.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
bone problems
glaucoma
immune system problems
infection, like chickenpox, tuberculosis, herpes, or fungal infection
recent surgery or injury of mouth or throat
taking corticosteroids by mouth
an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, steroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is inhaled through the mouth. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Make sure not to swallow the water. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not use more often than directed. Make sure that you are using your inhaler correctly. Ask you doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. 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.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
mifepristone
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
cimetidine
clarithromycin
erythromycin
ketoconazole
grapefruit juice
itraconazole
some vaccinations
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve. If your symptoms get worse or if you need your short-acting inhalers more often, call your doctor right away. Do not stop taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox.
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
breathing problems
changes in vision
white patches or sores in the mouth or throat
unusual swelling
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
coughing, hoarseness
dry mouth
loss of taste, or unpleasant taste
stomach upset
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store in a dry place at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not get the inhaler wet. Check if your inhaler has a way to show you if the doses are all gone. Throw away your inhaler when it is empty. Do not reuse this inhaler. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Budesonide Nasal spray, solution
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) nasal sprayis 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.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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
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.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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.
What may interact with this medicine?
cimetidine
clarithromycin
erythromycin
itraconazole
ketoconazole
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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.
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
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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.
Budesonide Nasal spray, suspension
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) nasal sprayis 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.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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
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.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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.
What may interact with this medicine?
cimetidine
clarithromycin
erythromycin
itraconazole
ketoconazole
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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.
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
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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.
Budesonide Nebulizer suspension
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) is a corticosteroid. It helps decrease inflammation in your lungs. This medicine is used to treat the symptoms of asthma. Never use this medicine for an acute asthma attack.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
bone problems
glaucoma
immune system problems
infection, like chickenpox, tuberculosis, herpes, or fungal infection
recent surgery or injury of the mouth or throat
taking corticosteroids by mouth
an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, steroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is used in a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose into your lungs. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Do not mix this medicine with other medicines in your nebulizer. Do not use more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose and continue with your regular schedule, spacing doses evenly. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
mifepristone
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
cimetidine
clarithromycin
erythromycin
itraconazole
ketoconazole
some vaccinations
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check with your health care professional if your symptoms do not improve. If your symptoms get worse or if you need your short acting inhalers more often, call your doctor right away.
The medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox.
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
breathing problems
changes in vision
unusual swelling
white patches or sores in the mouth or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
coughing, hoarseness
headache
runny nose
stomach upset
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at a room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep unopened vials in the foil pouch. When the package has been opened, the shelf life of the unused medicine is 2 weeks when protected from light. Unused medicine should be returned to the aluminum foil envelope right away to protect them from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Budesonide Oral capsule, gastro-resistant pellets
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) is a corticosteroid. It is used in the treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis which are types of inflammatory bowel disease.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
any active infection
cataracts
diabetes
immune system problems
glaucoma
high blood pressure
history of stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
liver disease
osteopetrosis
an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, other corticosteroids, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not cut, chew, crush, or break open this medicine. Take your dose in the morning. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
mifepristone
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
anastrozole
antacids
cimetidine
grapefruit juice
ketoconazole
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox.
You may need to avoid receiving certain vaccines or may need to have changes in the vaccination schedules to ensure adequate protection from certain diseases. Make sure to tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine before receiving any vaccine.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.
This medicine can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
Alcohol, grapefruit, and grapefruit juice can increase the risk of getting serious side effects while you are taking this medicine. Avoid grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and alcoholic drinks while taking this medicine.
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
changes in vision
fever, sore throat, sneezing, cough, or other signs of infection, wounds that will not heal
frequent passing of urine
increased thirst
mental depression, mood swings, mistaken feelings of self-importance or of being mistreated
pain in hips, back, ribs, arms, shoulders, or legs
severe stomach pain
swelling of feet or lower legs
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
headache
increased appetite
nausea
skin problems, acne, thin and shiny skin
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Budesonide Oral tablet, extended-release
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) is a corticosteroid. It is used in the treatment of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis which are types of inflammatory bowel disease.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
any active infection
cataracts
diabetes
immune system problems
glaucoma
high blood pressure
history of stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers
liver disease
osteopetrosis
an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, other corticosteroids, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not cut, chew, crush, or break open this medicine. Take your dose in the morning. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
mifepristone
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
anastrozole
antacids
cimetidine
grapefruit juice
ketoconazole
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox.
You may need to avoid receiving certain vaccines or may need to have changes in the vaccination schedules to ensure adequate protection from certain diseases. Make sure to tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine before receiving any vaccine.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.
This medicine can affect blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, check with your doctor or health care professional before you change your diet or the dose of your diabetic medicine.
Alcohol, grapefruit, and grapefruit juice can increase the risk of getting serious side effects while you are taking this medicine. Avoid grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and alcoholic drinks while taking this medicine.
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
changes in vision
fever, sore throat, sneezing, cough, or other signs of infection, wounds that will not heal
frequent passing of urine
increased thirst
mental depression, mood swings, mistaken feelings of self-importance or of being mistreated
pain in hips, back, ribs, arms, shoulders, or legs
severe stomach pain
swelling of feet or lower legs
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
headache
increased appetite
nausea
skin problems, acne, thin and shiny skin
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Budesonide Rectal foam
What is this medicine?
BUDESONIDE (bue DES oh nide) is a corticosteroid. It helps to reduce swelling, redness, and itching caused by ulcerative colitis.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
any active infection
cataracts
diabetes
glaucoma
high blood pressure
immune system problems
liver disease
osteoporosis
thyroid disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to budesonide, corticosteroids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for rectal use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash hands before and after use. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Before using foam, use the bathroom to empty the bowels. Use foam in a standing, lying or sitting position (e.g., while using the toilet). When using foam in the evening, use right before bedtime and do not try to have a bowel movement again until the next morning. Prepare the canister for use as directed. Use a new applicator for each dose. Place the forefinger on the top of pump dome and then turn the canister upside down. Insert the applicator gently into the rectum as far as it is comfortable. The easiest way to use foam is to keep one foot on the floor and raise the other foot onto a firm surface such as a chair or stool. Use the forefinger to fully push down the pump dome one time and hold it for about 2 seconds in that position. Release finger pressure on the pump dome and hold the applicator in place for 10 to 15 seconds. Remove the applicator. The foam will still expand a little and may drop out of the applicator or anus. Remove the applicator from the canister. Place the used applicator in the plastic bag provided. Throw the plastic bag away in household trash. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. Do not suddenly stop using your medicine because you may develop a severe reaction. Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. If your doctor wants you to stop using the medicine, the amount that you use may be slowly lowered over time to avoid any side effects.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you've taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
grapefruit juice
mifepristone
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
cimetidine
ketoconazole
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Consult your doctor or health care professional you do not start to get better after several days of use. Do not use if there is blood in your stools. Report rectal bleeding, pain, burning, itching, blistering, or any other sign of irritation to your doctor or health care professional.
This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Tell your doctor or health care professional if you are around anyone with measles or chickenpox, or if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are using this medicine.
The medicine can increase your blood sugar. If you are a diabetic check with your doctor if you need help adjusting the dose of your diabetic medicine.
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
changes in vision
cough
fever or chills
increased thirst
mental depression, mood swings, mistaken feelings of self-importance, mistaken feelings of being mistreated
nausea
pain or trouble passing urine
skin problems, acne, thin and shiny skin
sore throat
swelling of feet or lower legs
unusual bruising or red pinpoint spots on the skin
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
weight gain
wounds that will not heal
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):
diarrhea or constipation
difficulty sleeping
headache
increased appetite
increased sweating
menstrual problems
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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). Do not refrigerate. The product is flammable. Avoid fire, flames, and smoking during and right after use. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert