Alvesco contains the active ingredient ciclesonide, a non-halogenated glucocorticoid, intended for oral inhalation. It is available in dosages of 80 mcg and 160 mcg as a pressurized metered-dose aerosol. The formulation includes key inactive ingredients such as propellant HFA-134a and ethanol. Alvesco is commonly used to deliver medication to the lungs via inhalation.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is inhaled through the mouth. Rinse your mouth with water after use. Make sure not to swallow the water. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop. This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions. Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep inhaler away from extreme heat, cold or humidity. Throw away when the dose counter reads "0" or after the expiration date, whichever is first. To get rid of medication that are no longer needed or have expired: -Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location. -If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: -Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat -Low adrenal gland function—nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual weakness or fatigue, dizziness -Thrush—white patches in the mouth -Wheezing or trouble breathing that is worse after use Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome): -Change in taste -Cough -Headache -Hoarseness -Runny or stuffy nose -Sore throat

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -Glaucoma -Immune system problems -Infection, especially a viral infection, such as chickenpox, cold sores, or herpes -Injury of mouth or throat -Osteoporosis, weak bones -Recent surgery -Taking steroids, such as dexamethasone or prednisone -An unusual or allergic reaction to ciclesonide, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives -Pregnant or trying to get pregnant -Breastfeeding

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may interact with the following: -Clarithromycin -Erythromycin -Grapefruit juice -Itraconazole -Ketoconazole

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. NEVER use this medication for an acute asthma attack. You should use your short-acting rescue inhaler for an acute attack. If your symptoms get worse or if you need your short-acting inhalers more often, call your care team right away. You and your care team should develop an Asthma Action Plan that is just for you. Be sure to know what to do if you are in the yellow (asthma is getting worse) or red (medical alert) zones. This medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your care team for advice if you get a fever, chills, or sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.