Alvesco (Ciclesonide)

Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.

NPC's mission is your health. We recognize your need for help when you are applying for discount programs for your prescription medications. We consist of friendly and experienced advocates that not only know how these free and discount programs work, but are ready to help. We are available to take your call and answer any questions you may have as you search for the right program to fit your needs. We can also explain any supporting material you may need to provide as you apply for these programs. If for any reason you are denied, we also are experienced in the best appeals process with a high success rate.

NPC's mission is your health. We recognize your need for help when you are applying for discount programs for your prescription medications. We consist of friendly and experienced advocates that not only know how these free and discount programs work, but are ready to help. We are available to take your call and answer any questions you may have as you search for the right program to fit your needs. We can also explain any supporting material you may need to provide as you apply for these programs. If for any reason you are denied, we also are experienced in the best appeals process with a high success rate.

Inhaled Corticosteroids

Asthma

Ciclesonide is used to help prevent the symptoms of asthma. When used regularly every day, inhaled ciclesonide decreases the number and severity of asthma attacks. However, it will not relieve an asthma attack that has already started . Ciclesonide is a corticosteroid or steroid (cortisone-like medicine). It works by preventing inflammation (swelling) in the lungs, which makes the asthma attack less severe . This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription . Other uses (PubMed Health)

Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. This medicine is used with a special inhaler and usually comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully before using this medicine. If you do not understand the directions or you are not sure how to use the inhaler, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medicine has a dose indicator that keeps track of how many more times you can use the inhaler before you need to open a new one. If the dose indicator is not working correctly, do not use the inhaler and return it to your pharmacy or doctor. Test spray in the air before using for the first time or if the inhaler has not been used for a while. Remove the cap and look at the mouthpiece to make sure it is clean. To inhale this medicine, breathe out fully, trying to get as much air out of the lungs as possible. Put the mouthpiece just in front of your mouth with the canister upright. Open your mouth and breathe in slowly and deeply (like yawning), and at the same time firmly press down on the top of the canister once. Hold your breath for about 5 to 10 seconds, and then breathe out slowly. When you have finished all your inhalations, rinse your mouth out with water. Do not swallow the water after rinsing. You may need to use this medicine for four weeks or longer before you notice improvement in your asthma. Tell your doctor if you do not begin to feel better after using the medicine for four weeks.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects: Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and body aches. Lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting. Problems with vision. Sores or white patches on your lips, mouth, or throat. Worsening of asthma symptoms. If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor: Back, arm, leg, or joint pains. Dry mouth or throat, hoarseness, or voice changes. Headache. If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking ketoconazole (Nizoral®).

Seek medical attention

Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Store the canister at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. Do not keep this medicine inside a car where it could be exposed to extreme heat or cold. Do not poke holes in the canister or throw it into a fire, even if the canister is empty. Keep your inhaler dry at all times. You may wipe the mouthpiece with a dry cloth or tissue, but do not wash it with water. Throw away the inhaler when the dose indicator is at number zero. Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.