Alvesco (Ciclesonide) for COPD

Overview
Alvesco is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008 for maintenance treatment of asthma in people 12 years of age and older. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Alvesco helps prevent bronchospasms. Alvesco is not indicated for rescue usage during acute bronchospasms. Alvesco is also known by its drug name, Ciclesonide.

Alvesco is a glucocorticoid steroid, a drug that suppresses the immune system. Alvesco is believed to work by reducing inflammation in the lungs, lowering the risk of bronchospasm.

How do I take it?
Alvesco is inhaled orally twice a day. Alvesco should be taken at the same times each day, 12 hours apart. For instance, Alvesco may be taken morning and evening.

It is important to prime a new Alvesco inhaler before the first use by pumping it three times. You should also prime an inhaler that has not been used for 10 days or longer.

Rinse your mouth and throat with water after taking a dose of Alvesco in order to help prevent infections.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Alvesco.

Side effects
Common side effects of Alvesco include cold symptoms, headache, sinus infection, bad taste in the mouth, and pain in the sinuses, throat, back, joints, or extremities. You may be more susceptible to infections, including yeast infections in the mouth, while taking Alvesco.

Inform your doctor if you experience chest tightness or pain, vision changes, white patches in your mouth or throat, fast heart rate (tachycardia), swelling in your ankles or feet, or worsening COPD symptoms while taking Alvesco.

Many drugs can cause allergic reactions which, in the most serious cases, can result in death. Seek immediate medical help if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips or tongue.