Description
Same active ingredient (budesonide) as Pulmicort®, the US brand. Budecort Rotacap 100 mcg is an Indian brand, made and licensed in India. Compare all Generic Pulmicort (Budesonide) options.
About Budecort Rotacap 100 mcg
Budecort Rotacap 100 mcg is a prescription dry powder inhalation capsule containing 100 mcg of budesonide, made by Cipla Limited, used as a regular preventer for asthma. Each capsule goes into a Cipla breath-activated device (Rotahaler or Revolizer), which opens it so the powder can be breathed in. It is the lowest Rotacap strength, suited to school-age children and to adults on low doses or stepping down.
Rotacaps are for inhalation only and must never be swallowed.
How does it work?
Inhaled budesonide quiets the immune cells and chemical messengers that keep asthmatic airways inflamed. With regular use the airways become calmer and wider, so triggers provoke fewer symptoms. It does not relax tight airways within minutes, which is why it is not a treatment for an attack.
Why choose a dry powder capsule?
Powder devices are breath-activated, so there is no need to coordinate pressing a canister with breathing in. The capsule also shows whether the dose was taken, since it should be empty afterward. The trade-off is that a quick, forceful breath is needed to pull the powder out, which most children manage from about 5 or 6 years old. Younger children usually do better with an aerosol and spacer, or with a nebulizer.
How to take Budecort Rotacap 100 mcg
- With dry hands, open the device and place one capsule in the chamber.
- Close it and pierce or open the capsule as the device leaflet describes.
- Turn your head and breathe out fully, away from the device.
- Seal your lips on the mouthpiece and breathe in fast and deep; you may hear the capsule rattle.
- Keep the breath in for a count of ten if you can, then let it out gently.
- Look at the capsule: if powder remains, inhale again, then discard the shell.
- Rinse your mouth with water and spit.
Usual dosing
Children often take 100–200 mcg twice daily, one or two capsules each time. Adults with mild asthma may use 200 mcg twice daily or, when the doctor agrees, a once-daily routine. The prescriber sets the number of capsules; never take more than prescribed.
What to expect over the first weeks
- First few days: little obvious change, so keep taking it.
- Weeks 1–2: fewer nighttime coughs and less wheeze with activity.
- After a month or so: steadier control and less need for the reliever.
- At review: if asthma has been well controlled for some months, the doctor may lower the dose further.
What are the side effects?
Low doses are generally well tolerated. The usual problems are a hoarse voice, throat irritation, a cough right after inhaling the powder, and oral thrush. Doctors check children’s height at routine visits because inhaled steroids can slightly reduce growth rate. Get urgent help if wheeze gets worse just after a dose, if the face, lips or throat swell, or if an attack does not respond to the reliever.
Cautions
Mention any tuberculosis, untreated infection, liver disease, or exposure to chickenpox or measles in someone who is not immune. Tell your doctor about ritonavir, cobicistat, itraconazole or ketoconazole. Budesonide is commonly continued in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, because steady asthma control matters more than the small risks.
Pack sizes and storage
Sold in packs of 60, 90 or 120 capsules (30 per packet), from $12, for use with a compatible Rotahaler or Revolizer. Keep capsules in their strip until needed, in a dry place below 86°F (30°C), as humidity makes the powder clump.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a higher strength?
Yes, Budecort Rotacap 200 mcg. If you prefer an aerosol, there is Budecort Inhaler 100 mcg.
Which reliever works with the same device?
Asthalin Rotacaps contain albuterol (salbutamol) for quick relief.
How do powder inhalers compare with aerosols?
Read our asthma inhaler guide or browse the asthma category.
Information for general reading, not individual advice. Budecort Rotacap 100 mcg is a prescription medicine; check your technique with a pharmacist or nurse.
Helpful guides
- Types of Asthma Inhalers: Relievers, Preventers and How to Use Them CorrectlyLearn the types of asthma inhalers (relievers, preventers and combination inhalers), how each one works, and step-by-step tips for correct inhaler technique.