Usually used in the morning and evening to reduce inflammation in the lungs. Used correctly, Pulmicort Turbohaler can help to prevent asthma attacks.

Taking Pulmicort Turbohaler

Usually, you will be prescribed 1-2 puffs twice a day.

Pulmicort Turbohaler comes in 3 different strengths. We will advise which strength you need. Always use this medicine exactly as your doctor has told you. If you have any questions, contact us via your Patient Record.

How it works

The active ingredient in Pulmicort Turbohaler (budesonide), is one of a group of medicines called corticosteroids, which are often referred to simply as steroids. Steroids have an anti-inflammatory action, reducing the irritation and swelling in the airways, and so ease breathing problems like asthma.

Effectiveness

Used daily, Pulmicort Turbohaler can help prevent asthma attacks and control symptoms, such as wheeze or a night-time cough. You should notice a difference in a few days. Pulmicort Turbohaler does not help control asthma immediately.

You should also have a reliever inhaler like Ventolin (salbutamol) to hand in case of sudden breathing problems.

Correct inhaler use

1. Unscrew the white cover and remove. Hold your Pulmicort Turbohaler upright with the brown base at the bottom. Do not shake the inhaler.
2. To load a dose, turn the brown base as far as it will go in one direction, then turn it as far as it will go in the other direction until you hear a click.
3. Hold your Pulmicort Turbohaler away from your mouth and breathe out gently as far as is comfortable. Place the mouthpiece between your teeth (do not bite it) and close your lips to make a seal. Breathe in as deeply and as hard as you can through your mouth.
4. Remove the inhaler from your mouth and breathe out gently. Repeat if you are taking another dose. Once you have taken your prescribed dose, replace the cover and rinse your mouth out.

Side effects

Can cause throat irritation or thrush in the mouth. You can help by brushing your teeth, gargling, and/or rinsing your mouth out with water after each use.

For full information on side effects, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, contact us via your Patient Record.

Safety: taking other medicines

You should be able to use Pulmicort Turbohaler alongside other medicines. However, it is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are taking so that we can prescribe Pulmicort Turbohaler safely.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have ever needed intensive care treatment for your asthma, or have been admitted to hospital because of your symptoms in the last year, we will be unable to prescribe you Pulmicort Turbohaler.