What is Budesonide?

Budesonide and the brand name Entocort is a steroid that reduces inflammation and swelling within the digestive tract and is prescribed to treat mild to moderate Crohn’s disease. Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease where the body attacks the lining of the digestive tract which can cause pain, diarrhea, weight loss and fever. Entocort may also be prescribed to treat other bowel conditions such as ulcerative colitis.

How does Budesonide work?

Budesonide works inside the intestines and bowels to reduce inflammation, swelling, pain, diarrhea and other symptoms of Crohn’s disease or other bowel conditions. This medication works by decreasing the body’s natural defense or immune response. While budesonide does not cure these conditions it does decrease the symptoms of bowel diseases.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Entocort should be taken by mouth and may be taken with or without food. Swallow this medicine whole with a full glass of water.
• Do not crush or chew this medication as doing so may release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects
• Budesonide is usually prescribed to be taken once daily in the morning.
• Use this medication regularly as prescribed by your doctor. Try to take it at the same time each day to get the most benefit from it.
• Do not stop taking this medication without consulting with your doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skipped the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dosage to make up for a missed one.
• Keep this medication in the original container at room temperature and away from heat and moisture.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• If you, or anyone in your family, has had diabetes or glaucoma.
• If you have tuberculosis, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, stomach ulcer, cataracts or liver disease.
• If you have never had chicken pox or measles and you have not been vaccinated against these medications.
• If you are pregnant, planning on pregnancy or breast-feeding. This medication should only be used during pregnancy when clearly needed.

Also be aware that:

• You should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication. Doing so can increase the likelihood of experiencing side-effects.
• If you have surgery or emergency treatment, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication, or if you have used this medication within the last 12 months.
• Daily use of alcohol while using budesonide may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. You should limit your alcohol intake and consult with your doctor about what a safe amount of alcohol may be.
• This medication may mask signs of infection. It may make you more likely to get infections. Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infection and avoid contact with people with contagious infections.
• This medication may slow down a child’s growth if used over a long time. See a doctor regularly to check your child’s height and growth.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Nausea, stomach pain, gas, bloating or constipation.
• Headaches, tiredness or acne.
• Cold symptoms such as joint pain, stuffy nose, sneezing or sore throat.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Thinning skin, easy bruising or facial hair.
• Swelling in your ankles.
• Vomiting or rectal bleeding.
• Burning or pain while urinating.
• Menstrual problems in women or impotence or loss of interest in sex in men.
• Stretch marks or changes in the shape or location of body fat.

Q: What is the generic alternative for Entocort?

A: The generic alternative to Entocort is known as budesonide. Both brand name and generic medicines come in 3mg strength.

Q: What are the side effects of budesonide?
A: Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, bloating, constipation, gas headaches, tiredness, acne or cold symptoms.

Q: What is the strength of Entocort?

A: Entocort and the generic budesonide come in 3mg strength.