Medicine Information

Budicort

Name: Budicort
Brand: Budicort
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Nasal Suspension for Inhalation0.5 mg/2 mLCorticosteroids (Respiratory)ATC: R03BA02

Generic Name

Budesonide

Manufacturer

AstraZeneca

Country

Sweden

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
budicort 05 mg suspension	৳ 45.00	N/A

Description

Overview of the medicine

Budicort 0.5 mg Suspension is an inhaled corticosteroid used to manage and prevent asthma symptoms and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. It reduces inflammation in the airways.

Uses & Indications

Maintenance treatment of asthma

Prophylaxis of asthma

Management of COPD exacerbations in some cases

Dosage

Adults

Typical starting dose for asthma is 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily, usually divided into two doses (e.g., 0.5 mg twice daily) via nebulizer. For COPD exacerbations, up to 2 mg twice daily may be used.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment required, but monitor for systemic side effects.

Renal_impairment

No dose adjustment needed, but use with caution.

How to Take

For inhalation only, via a jet nebulizer equipped with a mouthpiece or face mask. Do not inject or swallow. Dilute with saline if necessary according to physician's advice.

Mechanism of Action

Budesonide is a potent glucocorticoid that exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by activating glucocorticoid receptors, leading to decreased synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators (e.g., cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins) and reduced cellular infiltration (e.g., eosinophils, mast cells, lymphocytes) in the airways.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Therapeutic effects begin within hours, but full benefits may take 1-2 weeks.

Excretion

Excreted mainly via urine and feces as metabolites.

Half life

Approximately 2-3 hours in adults.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed into the systemic circulation after inhalation, with about 34% bioavailability due to extensive first-pass metabolism.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP3A4, to inactive metabolites.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to budesonide or any excipients
Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma where intensive measures are required

Drug Interactions

Other corticosteroids

Increased risk of systemic corticosteroid effects.

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, ritonavir)

May increase systemic exposure to budesonide, potentially increasing risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects. Co-administration should be avoided or dose adjusted.

Storage

Store upright at room temperature (below 30°C), away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Once opened, use promptly and discard any unused portion.

Overdose

Acute overdose is unlikely to cause severe problems. Chronic overdose may lead to systemic corticosteroid effects like adrenal suppression or Cushingoid features. Treatment is supportive.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed. Budesonide is considered to have a low risk of fetal harm. Small amounts may be excreted in breast milk; caution is advised, but generally considered compatible with breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

20 x 2 mL ampoules (0.5 mg/2 mL)

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years, check package for specific expiration date.

Availability

Pharmacies, hospitals

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide, including FDA and DGDA

Patent Status

Generic available

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials support its efficacy and safety in asthma and COPD management, demonstrating significant improvements in lung function and reduction in exacerbations.

Lab Monitoring

Growth monitoring (in children)
Bone mineral density (long-term use)
Ophthalmologic exams (long-term use)

Doctor Notes

Educate patients on proper nebulizer technique and oral rinsing.
Monitor for signs of systemic corticosteroid effects, especially in pediatric patients and with long-term use.
Assess adrenal function if transitioning from systemic corticosteroids.

Patient Guidelines

Rinse mouth with water after each use to prevent oral candidiasis.
Use regularly as prescribed, even when feeling well.
Do not stop abruptly without consulting a doctor.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.