Generic
Budesonide
7 brands available in the market
At a glance
Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid used for the long-term preventive treatment of asthma and COPD. It reduces inflammation in the lungs, widens the airways, and helps prevent asthma symptoms.
Description
Budesonide is a corticosteroid used for the long-term preventive treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is available as an inhaler (preventer) or nebulizer solution.
Budesonide prevents the cells in the lungs from releasing inflammatory chemical messengers, thereby reducing airway inflammation and making breathing easier. It is effective when used regularly to prevent asthma symptoms but will not stop an asthma attack that has already started.
The lowest effective dose should be used to maintain asthma control. Rinsing the mouth after using the inhaler is essential to prevent side effects such as oral thrush and hoarseness.
Indications
- Asthma - long-term preventive treatment
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Therapeutic class
Corticosteroid
Pharmacological class
Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS)
Pharmacology
Budesonide is a corticosteroid that prevents the release of inflammatory chemical messengers in the lungs. It controls the rate of protein synthesis, depresses the migration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes and fibroblasts, and reverses capillary permeability and lysosomal stabilization to prevent and control inflammation. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver by CYP3A4. The therapeutic effects of inhaled budesonide are largely explained by its direct local action on the respiratory tract.
Mechanism of action
Budesonide prevents the release of inflammatory chemical messengers in the lungs. It reduces airway swelling and widens the airways, making breathing easier and preventing asthma symptoms.
Dosage
Adults (Inhaler): 1-2 inhalations twice daily. Some patients may require 4 inhalations twice daily.
Adults (Nebulizer solution): Severe asthma: 1-2 mg twice daily; Maintenance: 0.5-1 mg twice daily.
Children (2-12 years, Nebulizer): Initial: 0.5-1 mg twice daily; Maintenance: 0.25-0.5 mg twice daily.
Severe hepatic impairment: Avoid use. Moderate hepatic impairment: Reduce dose to 3 mg/day.
Note: Use the lowest effective dose. Continue regular use even if symptoms are controlled.
Administration
Follow the inhaler/nebulizer instructions. Rinse mouth with water after use and spit out, do not swallow. Shake the inhaler for 5 seconds before use. Use the nebulizer solution immediately after opening.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common side effects: Throat irritation, hoarseness, oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth and throat), respiratory tract infection.
Long-term use: Adrenal gland suppression, osteoporosis, glaucoma or cataracts, growth delay in children.
Precautions & warnings
- Use the lowest effective dose to control asthma.
- Budesonide will not stop an ongoing asthma attack; use a rescue inhaler.
- Rinse your mouth after using the inhaler.
- Long-term use may require bone density and eye pressure tests.
- Risk of infection may increase.
- Inform your doctor if you have liver disease.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to budesonide or any ingredients
Drug interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, itraconazole, grapefruit juice): May increase systemic budesonide exposure; avoid.
- CYP3A4 inducers (carbamazepine, rifampin): May decrease budesonide levels.
Food interactions
Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice (may increase drug levels).
Use in pregnancy
May be unsafe during pregnancy (Category C). Limited human studies available; animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Probably safe during breastfeeding (if prescribed). Limited human data suggests the drug does not pose significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy established in children; however, growth may be slowed. Limited data available for children under 6 years.
Geriatric use
No specific dose adjustment required for elderly, but caution advised.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause adrenal gland suppression, hypercorticism, and Cushing's syndrome. Consult your doctor if overdose is suspected.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Budesonide