How to Take Pulmicort: Side Effects, Dosage
How to take Pulmicort: dosage guidelines, common side effects, and tips for inhaler use to manage asthma.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
Support for Your Daily Wellness
We’re here to help you stay organized, informed, and in control of your routine.
Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Pulmicort
How to Take Pulmicort (Budesonide)
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Pulmicort is taken by inhalation. Your exact dose depends on whether you use the Flexhaler (dry-powder inhaler) or the nebulizer suspension, and is set by your clinician.
Pulmicort Flexhaler (dry-powder)
- Adults and teens 12+: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, typical doses range from 360–720 mcg twice daily. Common starting doses are 180–360 mcg twice daily.
- Children 6–11: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, 180 mcg twice daily is a typical starting dose.
- How to use: Exhale fully away from the device, place mouthpiece between your lips, breathe in quickly and deeply, then hold your breath about 5–10 seconds.
- Do not shake the Flexhaler; load each dose by twisting as instructed.
- Rinse your mouth and spit after each use.
Pulmicort Respules (nebulizer solution)
- Adults: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, doses are typically 0.5–1 mg twice daily, as directed by your clinician.
- Children 12 months–8 years: Per FDA-approved prescribing information, 0.25–0.5 mg twice daily (or 0.5 mg once daily for milder control), as directed by your clinician.
- How to use: Empty the ampule into the nebulizer cup, sit upright, and breathe the mist in calmly until the chamber is empty.
- Use with a jet nebulizer connected to a compressor; ultrasonic devices are not recommended per FDA-approved prescribing information.
- Rinse mouth and face afterward; wipe around the nose/mouth if using a mask.
General Tips
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, use Pulmicort every day at about the same times as directed for ongoing asthma control.
- Do not use for sudden breathing trouble; per FDA-approved prescribing information, Pulmicort is a maintenance inhaler — keep your rescue inhaler available for acute symptoms.
- Keep devices clean: wipe Flexhaler mouthpiece dry; wash nebulizer parts after each use and air-dry.
Warnings Before Taking Pulmicort
Per FDA-approved prescribing information:
• Tell your doctor about any infections, especially tuberculosis or fungal issues.
• Share if you have glaucoma, cataracts, liver disease, or immune problems.
• Let your clinician know about recent systemic steroid use, as transfer to inhaled steroids may unmask adrenal insufficiency.
• Discuss any pregnancy or breastfeeding concerns.
• Seek guidance if you have had allergic reactions to corticosteroids.
Pulmicort Side Effects
Common
mild
Hoarseness or Voice Changes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, hoarseness is a recognized adverse effect of inhaled budesonide. Rinsing your mouth and gargling after each use may help reduce this effect.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
a few hours
Uncommon
moderate
Oral Thrush
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, oropharyngeal candidiasis (thrush) — presenting as white patches, mild soreness, or altered taste — is a recognized adverse effect of inhaled corticosteroids. Rinsing your mouth and spitting after each inhalation helps reduce risk.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 days
Common
mild
Mild Cough or Throat Irritation
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, cough and throat irritation are recognized adverse effects of inhaled budesonide.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
5–20 minutes
Uncommon
mild
Dry Mouth
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, dry mouth may occur with inhaled budesonide use. Hydration and gentle mouth care may provide relief.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–2 hours
Uncommon
mild
Headache
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, headache is a recognized adverse effect of budesonide.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 hours
Uncommon
mild
Nasal Congestion or Runny Nose
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, nasal symptoms including congestion or drainage may occur with budesonide use, particularly early in treatment.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
30 minutes–2 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Pulmicort
What If You Forgot to Take Pulmicort?
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose of Pulmicort, take it as soon as you remember. If it is already close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and return to your normal routine. Do not double up — taking extra doses does not provide added benefit and may increase adverse effects.
If you find yourself forgetting often, small habits can help:
- Use a phone alarm or reminder.
- Keep the inhaler or nebulizer supplies where you normally take your medications.
What If You Took Too Much Pulmicort
What If You Took Too Much Pulmicort (Accidentally)?
If more than the prescribed amount was used, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Per FDA-approved prescribing information, inhaled budesonide generally has low acute toxicity, but excessive doses may cause systemic corticosteroid effects.
- Do not use additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or your clinician.
- If you feel unwell or are uncertain about the amount taken, seek medical guidance promptly.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Pulmicort Cost
Pulmicort Cost With Insurance
With most U.S. insurance plans, Pulmicort (Flexhaler and Respules) coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, formulary tier, deductible status, and pharmacy. Contact your insurance plan or pharmacy for your exact copay amount. Some insurers may offer lower copays for 90-day fills.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy or insurance plan for current pricing.
How Much Does Pulmicort Cost without Insurance
How Much Does Pulmicort Cost Without Insurance?
Without insurance, the price varies depending on the form (Flexhaler or Respules), dosage strength, and pharmacy. Contact your local pharmacy or use a pharmacy price-comparison tool for current cash pricing. Manufacturer and pharmacy discount programs may be available; ask your pharmacist for details.
Pricing information is subject to change. Contact your pharmacy for current pricing.
