The Pulmicort Turbuhaler is an inhaler that releases powdered budesonide. Each puff of the inhaler releases 160 mcg budesonide from the mouthpiece. This drug is used for the maintenance of asthma in adults and children older than six years old. It is also used for patients requiring oral corticosteroid therapy for asthma and this drug may reduce or eliminate their need for oral corticosteroids over time.

How does the Pulmicort Turbuhaler work?

Budesonide controls and prevents symptoms of asthma, including wheezing and shortness of breath. Budesonide is a corticosteroid and reduces the irritation and swelling of the airways. This drug has to be used regularly to be effective. This is not a rescue inhaler and cannot relieve sudden asthma attacks.

Before taking this medication, read the patient information on the box as well as the advice of your pharmacist.

• Do not shake the inhaler and do not use a spacer with it.
• Take a deep breath and then put your mouth around the mouthpiece, then press the canister to release a dose of the medicated powder.
• Wait at least one minute before taking another puff, if you are prescribed two puffs.
• If you are using other inhalers, wait at least 1 minute between each medication and use the corticosteroid (Pulmicort) last.
• Gargle and rinse your mouth with water after each use to prevent dry mouth and oral yeast infections.

Tell your doctor if:

• You have a medical history of eye disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, thyroid problems, or bone loss.
• You have signs of infection. This medication may mask signs of infections or worsen current infections.
• You are going to receive new vaccines. Budesonide may cause vaccines not to work as well. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines.
• A child taking the drug stops growing. Pulmicort may temporarily slow down a child’s growth.
• You get an oral yeast infection. If you don’t gargle or rinse your mouth after taking the inhaler, yeast can grow on your tongue, creating a yeast infection.
• You are breastfeeding. This drug does pass into breast milk, so consult a doctor before breastfeeding.

Some common side effects include but are not limited to:

• Voice changes
• Hoarseness
• dry/irritated throat
• Nosebleeds
• Bad taste in the mouth
• runny/stuffy nose

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience the following:

• Worsening of breathing
• Worsening asthma problems
• Signs of infection like ear pain, sore throat, fever, chills
• Easy bruising
• Mood swings
• Weakness
• Increased thirst/urination

How do I know if my inhaler is empty?

When there are 20 doses remaining in the Pulmicort Turbuhaler, a red mark will appear in the indicator window. When you see the red line, you’ll know it’s time to refill your prescription.

How do I dispose of my inhalers?

It is important not to throw away your empty inhalers into the trash because the canister may explode when compacted or heated too much. The best way to get rid of inhalers is to give them to your pharmacy for the proper disposal.