Azmacort

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Azmacort Azmacort (triamcinolone inhaled) 75

Azmacort Azmacort Inhalation Aerosol (Aerosol

Prescription Drug Information, Side Effects & Interactions for Azmacort

Uses
Inhaled corticosteroids work directly in the lungs to open airways and make breathing easier by relieving inflammation. This medication must be used regularly to prevent wheezing and shortness of breath caused by asthma, bronchitis or emphysema. This medication does not work immediately. Therefore it does not relieve an acute attack.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.
Inform all your doctors you use (or have used) this medication.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
Keep from getting too cold or freezing.

Azmacort

How To Use

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: Make sure you understand how to use the inhaler properly.
Shake the canister well before using.
When using the inhaler for the first time, test the unit by spraying at least once into the air.
A fine mist indicates that the inhaler is working properly.
It is recommended you use a spacer/holding chamber.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this.
If using without a spacing device, place the canister near your mouth and exhale.
Depress the canister as you inhale deeply.
Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the drug to be absorbed.
Shake the inhaler again before using.
If more than one inhalation is prescribed, wait one full minute between inhalations so you get the full effects of the first dose.
If using other inhalers, wait several minutes between the use of the inhalers and use this one (the corticosteroid) last.
Gargle and rinse your mouth after using this to help prevent dryness, relieve throat irritation and to prevent oral yeast infections.
Do not swallow the rinse solution.
Use this medication exactly as prescribed.
Do not use it more frequently without your doctor's approval.

Side Effects

May cause a cough, a dry irritated throat, unpleasant taste, hoarseness or nasal congestion, pain or headache.
If these effects continue or become bothersome, contact your doctor.
Notify your doctor if you experience white-colored tongue or prolonged mouth, throat irritation or vision changes.
Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following signs of low steroid levels: unusual weakness, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, fainting or dizziness.
In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before you use this drug, tell your doctor your medical history including all illnesses, infections, recent exposures to contagious diseases (e.g., chickenpox), glaucoma, cataracts or any allergies, especially of any drug allergies.
If within the past 12 months you have switched from an oral corticosteroid (e.g., prednisone) to this inhaler, or if you had been using this product in higher-than-usual doses and suddenly stopped using it, your body may not produce enough natural steroids.
You may need to start taking additional corticosteroids, especially if your body is stressed due to major infection, surgery or injury.
Consult your doctor.
If you cough up mucus that has thickened or changed color from clear white to yellow, green, or gray, contact your doctor; these changes may be signs of an infection.
Children and teenagers should be monitored for proper growth patterns while using any corticosteroid medicine.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This drug may be excreted into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Missed Dose

Use the missed dose as soon as remembered.
Use the remaining doses for that day at evenly spaced intervals.

Drug Interactions

Before you use this drug tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are taking, especially oral corticosteroids (e.g., betamethasone, prednisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone or triamcinolone).
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.