Budesonide
Entocort (budesonide) is a locally acting corticosteroid medication available in oral, inhaled, and nasal formulations. The oral formulation is primarily used to treat mild to moderate Crohn's disease affecting the ileum and ascending colon, while inhaled and nasal versions address asthma and allergic rhinitis respectively.
Entocort is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the intestines, lungs, or nasal passages depending on the formulation prescribed.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 153171
- Generic
- Entocort
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Oral capsules are indicated for mild to moderate Crohn's disease involving the ileum and/or right colon. Inhaler forms treat asthma, and nasal spray formulations address allergic rhinitis and nasal polyposis.
As a glucocorticoid receptor agonist, budesonide binds to steroid receptors in target tissues, inhibiting inflammatory mediators and suppressing immune cell activity. Its high topical potency with limited systemic absorption allows for localized anti-inflammatory effects.
Systemic side effects are generally milder than traditional corticosteroids due to extensive first-pass metabolism. However, adrenal suppression may occur with prolonged use. Patients should not discontinue abruptly and should be monitored for signs of infection, bone density changes, and glaucoma with long-term therapy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy