COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pulmicort

USES: This is an anti-inflammatory medication (corticosteroid) used in the prevention of asthma. It is not used to relieve an asthma attack. If an asthma attack occurs, use other medication as prescribed

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is inhaled into the lungs using a special inhaling device.

To use the inhaler, unscrew the cover and lift it off. Hold the inhaler upright, turn the grip fully in one direction until it stops and twist it back again until it clicks (this action loads the dose) . 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 the device. Replace the cover.

If the inhaler device is dropped or you accidentally breathe into the device after the dose has been loaded, you will lose your dose. Load and inhale another dose.

Learn proper use and cleaning of this product from your pharmacist to receive the most benefit from the treatment.

If two inhalations are prescribed, wait at least one minute between inhalat ions.

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.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dry or irritated throat, hoarseness or coughing may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. A bad taste in the mouth, headache, nausea, diarrhea, thirst and tiredness have also been reported. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor.

Notify your doctor if you develop a rash, sore throat, mouth sores, swelling of the face, wheezing, breathing trouble or behavioral changes (especially in children) while taking this medication.

PRECAUTIONS: Before you use this drug, tell your doctor your medical history including all illnesses, infections, recent exposures to contagious diseases (e.g., chicken pox) , glaucoma, cataracts or any allergies, especially of any drug allergies.

If you are switching or have switched within the last 9 months from an oral corticosteroid to an inhaled one (as is this medication) and experience loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, headache, fever, dizziness, joint and muscle pain or weight loss, contact your doctor. You may need to increase your dose of the oral corticosteroid temporarily or start taking it again.

If you cough up mucus that has thickened or changed color from clear white to yellow, green, or gray, contact your doctor; these changes may be signs of an infection.

If you experience unusual stress such as surgery, injury or an infection, contact your doctor.

Tell every doctor, dentist and surgeon who treats you that you use this medication.

Children and teenagers should be monitored for proper growth patterns while using any corticosteroid medicine.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take especially oral corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and other asthma medication.

NOTES: Each inhaler contains about 200 doses. When a red mark appears in the window under the mouthpiece, there are only 20 doses left. The inhaler is empty when the red mark reaches the lower edge of the window. Once empty, discard the inhaler as it cannot be refilled.

Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Always replace the cover. Store inhaler at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a dry place away from moisture.