Budesonide + Levosalbutamol

Dosage Forms Available

• Budesonide + Levosalbutamol is available as an inhalation suspension or solution for use with a nebuliser.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children above 6 years of age.

Contraindications

• Budesonide + Levosalbutamol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to budesonide or levosalbutamol. It is also contraindicated in patients with active or untreated infections, including fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This combination may interact with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as ketoconazole and ritonavir), beta-blockers (like propranolol and atenolol), diuretics (such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (including phenelzine and selegiline), and tricyclic antidepressants (like amitriptyline and clomipramine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Budesonide + Levosalbutamol may lead to symptoms such as tachycardia with rates up to 200 beats/min, hypertension or hypotension, nervousness, headache, tremor, dry mouth, palpitation, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, malaise, insomnia, hyperglycaemia, hypokalaemia, and metabolic acidosis. In case of overdose, discontinue the medicine and initiate appropriate symptomatic and supportive therapy.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage throat irritation or dry mouth after inhalation, rinse your mouth with water.

• If experiencing muscle cramps, gently stretch the affected muscles.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Budesonide + Levosalbutamol may cause tremor or palpitations. If you experience these symptoms after taking your medicine, it is advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until these effects subside.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Budesonide + Levosalbutamol during pregnancy or lactation should only occur if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is crucial to consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution should be exercised when using Budesonide + Levosalbutamol in patients with tuberculosis due to the potential exacerbation of infection. Patients with diabetes mellitus need to monitor their blood glucose levels regularly while using this medication due to the possible risk of hyperglycaemia.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

To support overall lung health and enhance the effectiveness of Budesonide + Levosalbutamol in managing asthma or COPD:

• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables that provide antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to help keep airways clear of mucus.

• Exercise regularly, but ensure activities are appropriate for your respiratory condition. Consult your doctor regarding suitable exercises.

• Avoid smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, as it can exacerbate respiratory conditions.

• Practice breathing exercises or yoga to improve breathing efficiency and reduce stress.