About Budesonide
Medically reviewed by Dr Khizer Hussain Junaidy, MD Pharmacology, Diabetologist & Bariatric Physician, on 23 Oct 2026.
What it is for
An inhaled steroid that calms swelling in the airways. Used daily to prevent asthma and COPD symptoms. Also used as a nasal spray and in nebulisers.
How to take it
Use it every day, even when you feel well. Rinse your mouth and spit after each use.
Common side effects
- Hoarse voice.
- White patches in the mouth (thrush) if the mouth is not rinsed.
Call your doctor if
- Breathlessness not relieved by your reliever inhaler.
- Using your reliever more than twice a week.
Take care
On its own, it is a preventer, not for sudden attacks. If your inhaler also contains formoterol, follow the doctor's advice on whether to use it for symptoms too.
From our clinic: Ask our pharmacist to check your inhaler technique. Most problems come from the technique, not the medicine.