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Oral thrush from inhaler — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyRespiratory TherapeuticsOral thrush from inhalerGPhC CRA

A 41-year-old woman using high-dose budesonide/formoterol inhaler reports a sore mouth and removable white patches. She admits she rarely rinses her mouth after using the inhaler. What would you advise the patient?

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Correct answer: E — Seek treatment for oral candidiasis and rinse the mouth after future doses

Inhaled corticosteroids can predispose to oral candidiasis, especially if mouth rinsing is missed. The current symptoms require assessment and antifungal treatment where appropriate. Preventive counselling should include mouth rinsing, correct technique and spacer use if relevant.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS