Common Trade Name of Budesonide 200mcg Inhaler in Australia
In Australia, the common trade name for budesonide 200mcg inhaler is Pulmicort Turbuhaler.
Background on Budesonide
Budesonide is a non-halogenated glucocorticosteroid with a high ratio of topical to systemic activity compared to other corticosteroids 1. It is widely used as an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) for the management of persistent asthma in both adults and children.
Available Formulations
Budesonide is available in Australia as:
- Pulmicort Turbuhaler: A dry powder inhaler delivering 200mcg per dose
- Pulmicort Respules: A suspension for nebulization (primarily used for younger children)
Dosing Information
The typical dosing of budesonide via Turbuhaler includes:
- Initial starting dose: 200mcg (1 puff) twice daily 2
- Dose range: Can be increased up to 800mcg twice daily in adults or 400mcg twice daily in children 2
- Once-daily option: For patients with mild-to-moderate asthma, once-daily administration (typically in the evening) can achieve clinical efficacy comparable to twice-daily regimens 3
Clinical Efficacy
Budesonide has demonstrated clinical efficacy equivalent to other inhaled corticosteroids such as fluticasone and beclomethasone, but with lower systemic bioavailability and fewer systemic side effects 2. The Turbuhaler device achieves lung deposition approximately twice that of a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with or without a spacer device 2.
Safety Profile
Common side effects of budesonide inhalation include:
- Dysphonia (voice changes)
- Oral candidiasis (thrush)
- Pharyngeal irritation 4
At usual dosages, budesonide appears to have little or no effect on adrenal function 1. It is the only inhaled corticosteroid to achieve a FDA pregnancy category B rating 5.
Patient Preference
Studies have shown that patients prefer the Turbuhaler to other delivery devices such as metered-dose inhalers, Diskhaler, and Rotahaler because it is easier to use and more convenient to carry 2.
Long-term Use
Long-term studies (52 weeks) have demonstrated that budesonide maintains improved pulmonary function and is well tolerated in adults and children with mild to severe persistent asthma 6.