Aerobid-M - Talk Medical

Generic Name: flunisolide inhalation

Brands: AeroBid, AeroBid-M

What is the most important information I should know about Aerobid-M?

· Aerobid-M will not stop an asthma attack that has already started. It is used to prevent attacks.

· Do not use more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much may cause serious side effects.

· Use Aerobid-M on a regular basis for best results. It may take several weeks to get the maximum effect of this medication.

· It is very important that you use your flunisolide inhaler properly, so that the medicine gets into your lungs. You doctor may want you to use a spacer with your inhaler. Talk to your doctor about proper inhaler use.

· Seek medical attention if you notice that you require more than your usual or more than the maximum amount of any asthma medication in a 24-hour period. An increased need for medication could be an early sign of a serious asthma attack.

What is Aerobid-M?

· Flunisolide is a steroid. It prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

· Aerobid-M is used to prevent asthma attacks and other conditions involving inflammation of the lung tissues.

· Flunisolide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not use Aerobid-M?

· Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you have a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection of any kind. The absorption of this drug into your system can inhibit your body's ability to fight off infections. You may not be able to use Aerobid-M if you have an infection.

· Aerobid-M will not stop an asthma attack that has already started. It is used to prevent attacks. Do not use Aerobid-M to treat an asthma attack. If you are having an asthma attack that is not responding to any treatment, seek emergency medical attention.

· Aerobid-M is in the FDA pregnancy C. This means that it is not known whether Aerobid-M will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is not known whether flunisolide passes into breast milk. Do not use Aerobid-M without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· Aerobid-M is not approved for use by children younger than 6 years of age.

How should I use Aerobid-M?

· Use Aerobid-M exactly as directed by your doctor. Read the information insert included with your inhaler. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· If you are also using a bronchodilator such as albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin), pirbuterol (Maxair), bitolterol (Tornalate), or another, use the bronchodilator first, then use your flunisolide inhaler. Using the medications in this order will allow more flunisolide to reach your lungs.

· Shake the inhaler several times and uncap the mouthpiece. Breathe out fully. For best results, hold the inhaler 1 to 2 inches in front of your open mouth or attach a spacer to the inhaler and place the spacer in your mouth, above your tongue and past your teeth. Take a deep, slow breath as you push down on the canister. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly. If you place your inhaler directly into your mouth, you may not receive the correct amount of medicine because it will be propelled onto the back of your tongue and/or throat. If you do use your inhaler directly in your mouth, be sure that it is above your tongue and past your teeth.

· To reduce the chance of developing a yeast infection in your mouth, rinse your mouth after using Aerobid-M.

· It is very important that you use your flunisolide inhaler properly, so that the medicine gets into your lungs. Your doctor may want you to use a spacer with your inhaler. Talk to your doctor about proper inhaler use.

· Do not use more of this medication than is prescribed for you, but use it consistently, as directed, even when you are feeling better. It may be several weeks before you see the effects of flunisolide. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

· Flunisolide will not stop an attack after it has started. It is used to prevent attacks from occurring. Keep another medicine on hand to treat attacks.

· Continue to take any oral steroid (pills or liquid) that your doctor has prescribed for you. Aerobid-M is not a substitute for an oral steroid.

· If you are switching from an oral steroid (pills or liquid) to Aerobid-M, carry or wear identification that will let others know that you may require a systemic steroid during a severe asthma attack or during another traumatic situation. Discuss with your doctor the precautions necessary when discontinuing an oral steroid.

· Rinse the inhaler in warm water as often as once a day to keep it clean and unclogged.

· Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

· An overdose of this medication is not likely to occur. If you do think an overdose has occurred, call an emergency room or poison control center.

What should I avoid while using Aerobid-M?

· Avoid items or activities that you know are allergens for you if they make your symptoms worse. Clean areas where dust or pet fur may aggravate your condition.

· Avoid exposing yourself to known sources of infection. Stay away from people with chicken pox, measles, or any other type of infection. Your immune system may not be strong enough to fight off an infection while you are using Aerobid-M.

What are the possible side effects of Aerobid-M?

· Serious side effects from Aerobid-M are not likely to occur. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop using Aerobid-M and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately: ·an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives); ·numbness, tingling, or pain; ·a rash or unexplained open sores or bruising; or ·worsening respiratory symptoms.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Aerobid-M and talk to your doctor if you experience ·dry mouth, nose, or throat after use; ·yeast (or another) infection in the mouth or throat (white patches); ·hoarseness or deepening of the voice, cough, or sore throat; ·wheezing; ·increased pressure in the eyes, glaucoma, or tearing of the eyes; ·headache or lightheadedness; ·unpleasant (or loss of) taste or smell; ·decreased growth in children taking large doses; or ·cataracts, which may develop after long-term use.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Aerobid-M?

· Before using this medication, tell your doctor and pharmacist about any other drugs you are taking. The use of other oral, nasal, or inhaled steroids may increase the chance of side effects or overdose.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Aerobid-M or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about Aerobid-M written for health professionals that you may read.