After using Budecort for a week, I noticed mild hoarseness and dry mouth. Has anyone else experienced this?

Dear Reader,

It’s common to experience mild hoarseness and dryness in the mouth or throat when using an inhaled corticosteroid such as Budecort (Budesonide) Respules. These effects are usually local and result from how the medicine is delivered directly into the airways.

When Budecort is inhaled, a small amount of the medicine can settle on the vocal cords and the lining of the mouth or throat. This may cause hoarseness (dysphonia), a temporary change in voice, or throat irritation and dryness. These are generally mild and not harmful, but they can be bothersome.

To help reduce these effects, it’s important to rinse your mouth and gargle with water after each use, then spit the water out rather than swallowing it. This simple step helps remove any residual medicine from the throat and mouth, lowering the risk of irritation or infection. Staying well-hydrated and sipping water frequently can also ease dryness and discomfort.

These local side effects are not typically a sign of overuse, provided you are following your prescribed dosage. However, if hoarseness becomes persistent or severe, or if you notice white patches in your mouth (which could indicate a fungal infection known as oral thrush), you should contact your doctor. They can review your inhalation technique and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Wishing you good health.