Indications
Qvar Inhaler is a prescription medication used as a long-term maintenance treatment for asthma. It contains the active ingredient beclomethasone. Beclomethasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works directly in the lungs to make breathing easier by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways.
Beclomethasone is a breath-actuated inhaler, which means that it is activated by your breathing. It is indicated for use in patients 4 years of age and older. It is a corticosteroid that helps prevent and control symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
Qvar Inhaler is available in 100 mcg/actuation (equivalent to 80 mcg) and 50mcg/ actuation (equivalent to 40 mcg).
Uses and Dosage
Qvar Inhaler is a breath-actuated inhaled medicine that should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Inhale this medication by mouth, usually 2 times a day or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
If your prescribed dose is 2 puffs, wait at least one minute between them. If you are using other inhalers at the same time, wait at least 1 minute between the use of each medication, and use this drug (the corticosteroid) last. Follow the instructions for priming the inhaler if you are using a canister for the first time or if you have not used it for 10 days or more. Do not shake the inhaler. Avoid getting the medication in your eyes when priming or using the inhaler.
The recommended starting dosage of QVAR inhaler varies depending on the patient's previous asthma therapy, age, and whether they are currently on an inhaled corticosteroid. Here are some of the recommended starting dosages:
- For patients 12 years of age and older who are not on an inhaled corticosteroid the recommended starting dosage is 40 to 80 mcg twice daily.
- For adults and children 12 years of age and older, the recommended starting dosage is one puff two times a day. Each puff contains 40 or 80 micrograms (mcg) of QVAR.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Qvar Inhaler (Beclomethasone):
- Cough
- Dryness of the throat or throat irritation
- General pain
- Headache
- Hoarseness
- Nausea
- Pain in the mouth or throat
- Stomach upset
- Stuffy nose
- Voice changes
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Qvar Inhaler (Beclomethasone):
- Allergy symptoms
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Fungal infection in the mouth or throat
- Increased thirst or urination
- Mental or mood changes
- Muscle weakness or pain
- Nose and throat inflammation
- Oral thrush or white patches on the mouth
- Puffy face
- Signs of infection (persistent sore throat, fever, chills)
- Sinus inflammation
- Slow wound healing
- Thinning of the skin
- Unusual hair growth
- Unusual tiredness
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Vision problems
Form and Strength
Qvar Inhaler (Beclomethasone) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Qvar Inhaler: Inhaler
- 50 mcg
- 100 mcg
Beclomethasone: Inhaler
- 100 mcg
Caution
- Do not use QVAR inhaler to treat sudden severe symptoms of asthma. Always have a rescue inhaler with you to treat sudden symptoms.
- Do not use QVAR inhaler if you are allergic to beclomethasone di propionate or any of the ingredients in QVA inhaler.
- Do not use QVAR inhaler more often than prescribed.
- Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take and about all your health conditions.
- It is not a rescue inhaler and should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks.
- It may take a few weeks of use to notice the full benefits of the medication.
- It should be used with caution in patients with active or quiescent tuberculosis infections and in patients with untreated fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.
- It may not be suitable for use in people with specific medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is beclomethasone used for?
Beclomethasone is a corticosteroid medication used to treat inflammation in the lungs, such as in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
How is beclomethasone administered?
Beclomethasone can be administered via an inhaler, a nasal spray, or as a pill.
Can beclomethasone be taken during pregnancy?
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their healthcare provider before taking beclomethasone. It is considered safe, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects on pregnancy and lactation.
How should Qvar Inhaler be stored?
Qvar Inhaler should be stored at room temperature between 68-77°F (20-25°C). It should be kept away from heat or direct sunlight.
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