Alvesco is a new generation inhaled corticosteroid with novel release and distribution properties. Inhaled corticosteroids are considered to be the foundation of asthma treatment, and they work by reducing inflammation the underlying disease process - in the lungs and airways.
Alvesco CFC-free aerosol inhaler contains the active ingredient ciclesonide, which is a type of medicine known as a corticosteroid.
Corticosteroids are hormones that are produced naturally by the adrenal glands. They have many important functions, including control of inflammatory responses. Ciclesonide is a synthetic corticosteroid and is used to decrease inflammation in the lungs. (NB. Corticosteroids are often simply called steroids, but it should be noted that they are very different from another group of steroids, called anabolic steroids, which have gained notoriety because of their abuse by some athletes and body builders.)
When ciclesonide is inhaled into the lungs it is absorbed into the cells of the lungs and airways. Here the medicine becomes activated. It works by preventing the release of certain chemicals from the cells. These chemicals are important in the immune system and are normally involved in producing immune and allergic responses that result in inflammation. By decreasing the release of these chemicals in the lungs and airways, inflammation is reduced.
In asthma, the airways tighten due to inflammation and can also be blocked by mucus. This makes it difficult for air to get in and out of the lungs. By preventing the inflammation and excess mucus formation, ciclesonide makes it easier to breathe and helps prevent asthma attacks.
Ciclesonide is taken using an inhaler device to treat asthma. Inhaling the medicine allows it to act directly in the lungs where it is needed most. It also reduces the potential for side effects occurring in other parts of the body, as the amount absorbed into the blood through the lungs is lower than if it is taken by mouth.
Ciclesonide taken by inhaler is known as a preventer. This is because it is taken regularly to reduce the inflammation in the lungs and prevent asthma attacks. Symptoms usually start to get better about 24 hours after starting treatment. However, it is important to continue using this medicine regularly, even after your asthma symptoms have improved, in order to prevent them coming back.
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Unexpected narrowing of the airways (paradoxical bronchospasm), Bad taste, Throat irritation, Dry mouth or throat, Hoarseness, Cough, Rash, Eczema, and Systemic effects (eg, Cushing's syndrome, adrenal suppression, slowed growth in children and adolescents, decreased bone mineral density, cataract and glaucoma) may occur after high doses for prolonged periods.