Pulmonary
- Critical Care Associates
of East Texas
Jeffrey M.
Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P.
Catherine M. Martinez, M.D.
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Jeffrey M.
Shea, M.D., F.C.C.P. |
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COMMON BRAND NAME(S) : Azmacort, Beclovent,
USES: Inhaled corticosteroids work directly in the lungs to open airways and make breathing easier by relieving inflammation. This medication must be used regularly to prevent wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma, bronchitis or emphysema. This medication does not work immediately. Therefore it does not relieve an acute attack. HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly. Shake the canister well before using.When using the inhaler for the first time, test the unit by spraying at least once into the air. A fine mist indicates that the inhaler is working properly. It is recommended you use a spacer/holding chamber. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this. If using without a spacing device, place the canister near your mouth and exhale. Depress the canister as you inhale deeply. Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed. Shake the inhaler again before using. If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait one full minute between inhalations so you get the full effects of the first dose. If using other inhalers, wait several minutes between the use of the inhalers and use this one (the corticosteroid) last. Gargle and rinse your mouth after using this to help prevent dryness1 relieve throat irritation and to prevent oral yeast infections. Do not swallow the rinse solution. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval. SIDE EFFECTS: May cause a cough, a dry irritated throat, unpleasant taste, hoarseness or nasal congestion, pain or headache. If these effects continue or become bothersome, contact your doctor.Notify your doctor if you experience white-colored tongue or prolonged mouth or throat irritation while using this medication. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing. 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: Before you use this drug tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking, especially oral corticosteroids (e.g., betamethasone, prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone or triamcinolone)MISSED DOSE: Use the missed dose as soon as remembered. Use the remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Keep from getting too cold or freezing. |
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