Pulmicort Turbuhaler

Adults and children over 12 years of age: The usual starting dose ranges from 400 µg to 2,400 µg daily, divided into 2 to 4 equal doses. The usual maintenance dose is 200 µg to 400 µg twice daily. People who need only 400 µg per day can take it once daily in the morning or in the evening. Treatment with Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh) should not be discontinued abruptly, but slowed down gradually. If asthma worsens while using Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh), your doctor may instruct you to increase the dose or use the medication more frequently. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Children 6 to 12 years of age: The usual starting dose ranges from 200 µg to 400 µg daily divided into 2 equal doses. The usual maintenance dose depends on the individual child.

To ensure the proper dosage and administration of the medication, ask for instruction from your doctor, pharmacist, or other health professional in the use of the medication dispenser.

The budesonide turbuhaler is breath activated. The amount of powder inhaled with each dose is very small. You may not be able to taste it or feel in going into your lungs. However, the medication will be getting into your lungs if you follow the instructions on how to use the inhaler. Listen for a "click" sound when you load a dose into the delivery unit. If you do not hear this sound, the device is not working properly and it is unlikely that you will receive the dose of medication. If you believe the turbuhaler is not working properly, contact your pharmacist for further instructions.

To reduce the risk of thrush infection in the mouth, rinse and gargle with water after inhaling the medication.

It is important to remember that Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh) will not provide immediate relief for an asthma attack that has already started. Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh) is intended for long-term relief. Inhalers that contain "reliever" medications with fast action (e.g., salbutamol, terbutaline) will still be needed while using Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh) on a regular basis.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important to use Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh) exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose and remember within 6 hours, use it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is more than 6 hours when you remember, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Clean the outside of the mouthpiece once a week with a dry tissue. Never use water or any other fluid.

Store Pulmicort Turbuhaler (Budesonide-inh) at room temperature with the cover in place, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.