Cesonide

Ciclesonide inhalation aerosol is indicated for treatment to control persistent asthma in adults (18 years and older).

Ciclesonide, which is a new once daily inhaled corticosteroid, is an ester prodrug that requires hydrolyzation by endogenous esterases in the lung to form its active metabolite (B-9207-021). The activated ciclesonide has an approximately 100-fold greater affinity for glucocorticoid receptors compared with the parent compound and produces high local anti-inflammatory activity.

Co-administration with a potent inhibitor of the cytochrome P450 3A4 system (e.g. ketoconazole, itraconazole and ritonavir or nelfinavir) should be considered with caution. The risk of clinical adverse effect (eg cushingoid syndrome) cannot be excluded.

Common (1-10%): Paradoxical bronchospasm; uncommon (0.1-1%): Bad taste, application site reactions, application site dryness, hoarseness, cough after inhalation, rash and eczema.

Systemic effects of inhaled corticosteroids may occur, particularly at high doses prescribed for prolonged periods. These effects are much less likely to occur than with oral corticosteroids. Possible systemic effects include adrenal suppression, growth retardation in children and adolescents, decrease in bone mineral density, cataract and glaucoma. Patients with severe hepatic impairment should be monitored for potential systemic effects.

As with other inhaled glucocorticoids, Ciclesonide should only be used during pregnancy or lactation if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the mother, foetus or child. The lowest effective dose of Ciclesonide needed to maintain adequate asthma control should be used.

As with all inhaled corticosteroids, Ciclesonide should be administered with caution in patients with active or quiescent pulmonary tuberculosis, fungal, viral, or bacterial infections, and only if these patients are adequately treated. As with all inhaled corticosteroids, Ciclesonide is not indicated in the treatment of status asthmaticus where intensive measures are required, or to relieve acute asthma symptoms for which an inhaled short-acting bronchodilator is required. Patients should be advised to have such rescue medication available. Patients transferred from oral steroids should be monitored regularly and their dose of systemic steroid reduced cautiously. Treatment with Ciclesonide should not be stopped abruptly.

Respiratory corticosteroids

The inhaler should be stored below 30°C, protected from direct sunlight and heat. The canister should not be broken, punctured or burnt, even when apparently empty. Keep away from eyes. Keep out of reach of children.