What are the potential harms of budesonide in children?
Feb 21, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
Budesonide is a corticosteroid medication. Under normal circumstances, potential adverse effects of budesonide in children include metabolic disturbances, growth suppression, immunosuppression, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular system effects. Budesonide should always be used under the guidance of a physician, according to individual patient conditions, and must not be used indiscriminately.
Budesonide is a glucocorticoid medication. Under normal circumstances, potential adverse effects of budesonide in children include metabolic disturbances, growth suppression, immunosuppression, osteoporosis, and effects on the cardiovascular system. The specific details are as follows:
1. Metabolic disturbances
Budesonide may cause metabolic disturbances in children, reduce immune function, disrupt normal microbial flora, and lead to obesity.
2. Growth suppression
Long-term use of budesonide may affect children's growth and development, especially when the drug is administered orally or via inhalation. This effect is usually reversible, with recovery occurring after discontinuation of the drug. However, close monitoring of height and weight is necessary during treatment.
3. Immunosuppression
Budesonide is an immunosuppressant, and long-term use may impair immune system function in children, increasing the risk of infections. Children receiving high doses or prolonged therapy may experience higher rates of viral, bacterial, or fungal infections.
4. Osteoporosis
Long-term use of budesonide may increase the risk of osteoporosis in children. This is because budesonide inhibits bone formation and mineralization, potentially leading to reduced bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
5. Effects on the cardiovascular system
Long-term use of high-dose budesonide may lead to certain cardiovascular side effects, such as hypertension and edema. Although these side effects occur at relatively low rates in children, close monitoring and evaluation are still required.
It should be noted that budesonide must be used under the guidance of a physician, based on individual patient conditions. Blind or unguided use should be avoided.
