How does it work?

Budesonide belongs to a sub group of corticosteroid medicines known as glucocorticosteroids. Corticosteroids works by acting within cells to prevent the release of certain chemicals that are important in the immune system. These chemicals are normally involved in producing immune and allergic responses, resulting in inflammation. By decreasing the release of these chemicals in a particular area, inflammation is reduced. In Crohn's disease, parts of the small and large intestine can become red and swollen and ulceration may occur. Budesonide is used in Crohn's disease to decrease the symptoms and inflammation associated with the disease, especially at times of flare up. The exact mechanism of action of budesonide in the treatment of Crohn's disease is not fully understood. However, being a glucocorticosteroid, budesonide has a high local anti-inflammatory effect. The oral capsule form of budesonide has a special way of releasing the medicine in a slow and controlled manner. This enables the active ingredient (budesonide) to act more effectively on a specific part of the gut, where it is needed most.

What is it used for?

Reducing the severity of symptoms of mild to moderate Crohn's disease

Warning!

When treatment is to be discontinued, the dose should be reduced for the last 2 to 4 weeks of therapy.

Use with caution in

Cataracts

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Diabetes mellitus

Elderly people

Glaucoma

Heart attack

Heart failure

High blood pressure

History of depression

History of diabetes

History of glaucoma

Hypothyroidism

Individuals who have not had chicken pox or measles previously. Such individuals should take care to avoid exposure while taking this medicine

Individuals with existing supressed production of hormones from the adrenal gland (adrenal suppression)

Infection

Mouth ulcers and sores

Osteoporosis

Peptic ulcer

Tuberculosis

Not to be used in

Bacterial infections

Children

Fungal infections

Viral infections

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be used with caution during pregnancy, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the foetus. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers, and only if the expected benefit to the mother is greater than the possible risk to the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

Do not take indigestion remedies at the same time of day as this medication.

Follow the printed instructions you have been given with this medication.

Take this medication half to one hour before food.

This medication is to be swallowed whole, not chewed.

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