Drug Name

Entocort (Budesonide)

Drug Uses

Entocort inhalation is used to prevent asthma attacks. It will not treat an asthma attack that has already begun.

How Taken

Use Entocort as directed by your doctor.

• This medication is inhaled into the lungs using a special inhaling device. Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully.
• If you are not sure how to use this device, reread the patient information leaflet or ask your pharmacist. After the dose is loaded, breathe out.
• Place the mouthpiece between your lips and breathe in rapidly and deeply through your mouth. The drug will be inhaled as you breathe in. Hold your breath for 10 seconds to assure it reaches deep into your lungs. Slowly breathe out.
• Do not exhale into device.
• Replace the cover. If the inhaler device is dropped, shaken, or you accidentally breathe into the device after the dose has been loaded, you will lose your dose. Load and inhale another dose.
• Do not use the inhaler if it has been damaged or if the mouthpiece has become detached. If two inhalations are prescribed, wait at least one minute between inhalations.
• If using other inhalers, use this one(the corticosteroid) last and wait several minutes after using the other(s) before using this one. To prevent dry mouth and hoarseness, rinse your mouth after each use.
• Do not swallow the rinse solution. It is important to practice good oral hygiene to prevent mouth infections while using this medication.
• This medication works best if used consistently at even intervals. It is usually used once in the morning and evening.
• Do not increase your dose, use this more frequently or stop using this medication without first consulting your doctor.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Entocort.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Entocort is a steroid. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Missed Dose

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Storage

Store Entocort between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Entocort out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Entocort if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Entocort;
• you are taking mifepristone.

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Important:

• Entocort may cause dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Take Entocort with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Entocort before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
• Entocort may lower the ability of your body to fight infection. Avoid contact with people who have colds or infections. Tell your doctor if you notice signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills.
• If you have not had chickenpox, shingles, or measles, avoid contact with anyone who does.
• Your doctor may have also prescribed a potassium supplement for you. If so, follow the dosing carefully. Do not start taking additional potassium on your own or change your diet to include more potassium without first checking with your doctor.
• Do not receive a live vaccine (eg, measles, mumps) while you are taking Entocort. Talk with your doctor before you receive any vaccine.
• Diabetic patients - Entocort may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels closely and ask your doctor before adjusting the dose of your diabetes medicine.
• Lab tests, including adrenal function assessment, may be performed while you use Entocort. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Entocort while you are pregnant. Entocort is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Entocort.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• back pain; changes in menstrual cycle; dizziness; gas; headache; indigestion; nausea; nervousness; pain; respiratory tract infection; stomach pain; tiredness; tremor; trouble sleeping; vomiting.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); acne; change in mood or behavior; chest pain; confusion; severe headache; sudden increase in weight; swelling of the ankles; unusual bruising; vision changes.

More Information

If you have any questions about Entocort, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Entocort is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.