Generic
Ciclesonide
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Ciclesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid used to prevent the symptoms of asthma (wheezing and shortness of breath).
Description
Ciclesonide is used to prevent the symptoms of asthma (wheezing and shortness of breath). It is a corticosteroid and is known as a "preventer". You need to have a fast-acting "reliever" as well because this medicine will not stop an asthma attack that has already started. Your doctor will tell you how often you need to use your inhaler. It is important that you take the lowest dose needed to effectively control your asthma. The effect of this medicine may be noticeable after a few days but will only reach its maximum after a few weeks. This medicine must be used regularly to be effective, so go on taking it even if you do not have any symptoms. That means it is doing its job. If you stop taking it your asthma may get worse. It should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (reliever).
Ciclesonide is a steroid. It prevents the cells in the lungs and breathing passages from releasing chemical messengers that cause inflammation (swelling) of the airways. This widens the airways and makes breathing easier.
Indications
- Asthma
- Allergic rhinitis (nasal spray)
Therapeutic class
Corticosteroids (Inhalation)
Pharmacological class
Inhaled Corticosteroid
Pharmacology
Ciclesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, is converted by esterases in the lungs to the active metabolite, desisobutyryl-ciclesonide, which has anti-inflammatory activity. It reduces the activity of inflammatory cells in the airways and decreases airway hyperresponsiveness.
Mechanism of action
Ciclesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, is converted by esterases in the lungs to the active metabolite desisobutyryl-ciclesonide, which has anti-inflammatory activity. It prevents the release of inflammatory mediators and widens the airways.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Inhalation - Asthma): Usual dose 160 mcg once daily (preferably in the evening) from a metered-dose inhaler; reduced to 80 mcg once daily for maintenance; may increase to 160 mcg twice daily.
Adult Dose (Nasal Spray - Allergic Rhinitis): 1 spray (50 mcg/spray) in each nostril once daily. Maximum total daily dose should not exceed 2 sprays in each nostril (200 mcg/day).
Pediatric Dose (>12 years): Same as adult dose.
Administration
Rotacaps must not be swallowed. Check the label for directions before use. Place the capsule at the base of rotahaler, not in the mouthpiece. Twist the mouthpiece completely until you hear a click and breathe in deeply through the mouthpiece. Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds. If some powder remains, repeat the process.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Ciclesonide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Hoarseness of voice
- Sore throat
- Oral fungal infections (oral candidiasis)
Rare Side Effects: Adrenal suppression, growth retardation (children), decreased bone density (osteoporosis), glaucoma, cataracts.
Precautions & warnings
- Ciclesonide dampens down inflammation in the lungs for long-term maintenance treatment of asthma.
- Will not work for an ongoing asthma attack. Use your rescue inhaler for sudden breathing difficulty.
- Learn the correct technique of using inhalers to ensure medication reaches your lungs and side effects are minimized.
- Gargle with warm water after each inhalation to avoid fungal infections in your mouth and throat.
- Take it at the same time every day to prevent asthma attacks.
- Do not open and close the cover unnecessarily as you may lose the medicine.
Contraindications
- Status asthmaticus or severe acute asthma where intensive measures are needed.
- Hypersensitivity to any ingredients of Ciclesonide nasal spray.
Drug interactions
Increased ciclesonide concentrations with concomitant ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, nelfinavir or other potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.
Food interactions
[SAFE] Consuming alcohol with Ciclesonide does not cause any harmful side effects.
Use in pregnancy
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Ciclesonide may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor. Pregnancy Category C.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
[SAFE IF PRESCRIBED] Ciclesonide is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dose (>12 years): Same as adult dose. Safety and efficacy in children under 12 years have not been established.
Geriatric use
Limited information is available regarding dose adjustment for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No dose adjustment is required in kidney or liver problems.
Overdose effects
Acute overdose may cause hypercortisolism symptoms. Chronic overdose may cause adrenal suppression.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C in a dry and cool place. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Ciclesonide