Qvar Inhaler

Qvar (Beclomethasone) is an aerosol corticosteroid medication for controlling asthma in adults and children above age 4. The drug does not relieve bronchospasm and, therefore, should not be used during asthmatic attacks.

What is Qvar Inhaler, and How Does it Work?

Qvar Redihaler, the brand name for the beclomethasone inhaler, belongs to the class of medicines known as inhaled corticosteroids. The aerosolized medication is used as prophylactic therapy in the maintenance treatment of asthma. When inhaled, beclomethasone acts directly on the lungs to decrease inflammation (swelling) and open the airways. Thus, regular use of the Qvar inhaler will prevent or reduce the severity and number of asthmatic attacks.

Note: Beclomethasone is a control medication that does not relieve the symptoms of an ongoing asthma attack. Therefore, do not inhale Qvar when having an exacerbation (status asthmaticus).

What Does Qvar Inhaler Treat?

Beclomethasone inhaler is an FDA-approved prophylactic drug for asthma; it prevents and controls the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe asthma. Improvement of asthma symptoms, including shortness of breath and wheezing, usually begins after 1-2 weeks of regular and correct use, with full benefits evident after about a month. When symptoms do not improve after a week, inform the healthcare provider. Since symptom relief does not occur immediately, those experiencing asthma attacks should use rescue inhalers as prescribed and not beclomethasone breath-actuated medication.

Do not use a Qvar inhaler unless it was prescribed for you, even if you have similar symptoms.

How to Use Qvar Inhaler: Form(s), Dosage, and Administration

Beclomethasone inhaler comes in two strengths, 40 micrograms, and 80 micrograms. Each actuation of the aerosolized, pressurized medication releases 40 or 80 micrograms of the drug, depending on the strength.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of beclomethasone dipropionate varies depending on the age and previous asthma therapy.

Adolescents and adults above 12

The initial dose for those above 12 and not on any other inhaled corticosteroid medication is 40-80 mcg twice daily, taken through oral inhalation approximately 12 hours apart. For those switching to Qvar Inhaler from another inhaled corticosteroid, the start dose is based on the previous dosage and response to treatment. Therefore, their initial dosage could be between 40-320 mcg taken twice per day. A dose increment can grant relief if symptoms do not improve after the first two weeks of therapy. The maximum recommended daily dosage for those above 12 is 640 mcg, taken in two equally divided doses.

Individuals between 4 and 11 years

The initial dose for this pediatric population is 40 mcg twice daily, taken through oral inhalation. If an adequate response does not occur after two weeks of therapy, the dose can be increased by 40 mcg. The maximum pediatric dosage is 80 mcg twice daily.

Once the asthma symptoms are adequately controlled, the doctor might gradually reduce the dose to the least amount needed.

Using Beclomethasone Inhaler

Before using the Qvar Inhaler or upon getting a refill, read the Patient Leaflet provided by the pharmacist and follow the illustrated steps for proper use. If any direction is unclear, consult the healthcare provider.

Inhale the drug by mouth as directed by the doctor, usually two times a day. If the prescribed dose requires more than one actuation, wait at least one minute before taking the next puff. For instance, a dose of 160 mcg will need two actuations if using the 80-mcg inhaler and four puffs if using the 40-mcg inhaler.

Sometimes the doctor might prescribe reliever medications, such as a terbutaline inhaler, in conjunction with a Qvar inhaler. In such instances, use the other inhalers first and take beclomethasone last.

Qvar Inhaler Tips

• The Qvar Redihaler does not require priming and should not be used with a spacer or volume-holding chamber.
• Shaking before use is not necessary (shaking the inhaler with the cap open can cause actuation of the device).
• Always keep the inhaler clean and dry. Do not dip any part of the inhaler, including the mouthpiece, in water. If the mouthpiece needs cleaning, wipe it with a dry cloth or tissue.
• The Qvar inhaler has a dose counter attached to the actuator. A new inhaler usually displays the number 120 on the counter and decreases with every puff taken. Contact the provider for a refill once the number drops to 20 and the counter color changes to red. The beclomethasone inhaler should be discarded if the counter reads 0 or it expires.

After oral inhalation, gargle or rinse the mouth with water and spit out to prevent the development of oral candidiasis leading to mouth dryness, throat irritation, and voice hoarseness. Avoid swallowing the rinse water, as this would be counterintuitive.

Use the medication regularly and do not exceed the prescribed amount or frequency. Do not change the dose or stop using the inhaler unless the doctor directs. Sudden discontinuation might precipitate corticosteroid withdrawal symptoms such as joint pain, weight loss, general body weakness, and depression. Doctors usually decrease the dose gradually to prevent such effects.

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible and resume the regular inhalation schedule. But if it is near the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the usual routine. Use beclomethasone strictly as instructed by the provider.

Qvar Inhaler Possible Side Effects

Like other drugs, the Qvar inhaler has potential side effects. But remember, the doctor only prescribes this medication after determining the benefits outweigh the risks. Common side effects experienced by those using beclomethasone dipropionate include:

• Cough
• Nausea
• Mouth and throat irritation
• Voice changes with horseness
• Headache
• Sleep problems

These side effects usually disappear with continued use of the inhaler. However, if they persist or worsen, contact the doctor promptly.

Severe side effects

Some unwanted effects of beclomethasone medication are rare but potentially serious. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if the following occur while using the inhaler.

• Asthma exacerbation or sudden attack
• Adrenal insufficiency. Often occur after discontinuation of systemic corticosteroids and starting a Qvar inhaler and is characterized by dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, and nausea
• Increased infections. Signs of infection include fever, chills, joint pains, and malaise
• Severe allergic reaction
• Osteoporosis, especially in the elderly
• Slowed growth in children

If side effects besides those listed above occur, inform the doctor or contact the emergency service department.

Warnings

• Breathing problems might ensue immediately after using the Qvar inhaler. In the event of such, stop using beclomethasone and take a reliever medication such as a salbutamol inhaler.
• Long-term use of Qvar (beclomethasone) can cause changes in vision due to cataracts. Eye pressure might also increase to cause glaucoma. Talk to the doctor if blurry vision develops when using this medication.

Drug Interactions and Contraindications

Qvar can interact with other drugs affecting how it works. Before using, discuss with the healthcare provider all the current medications, including herbal products and supplements. Drug-drug interactions can occur between beclomethasone and:

• Aldesleukin
• Mifepristone
• BCG
• Desmopressin
• Other immune-suppressing drugs like azathioprine

Qvar inhaler is contraindicated in individuals allergic to the active ingredient, beclomethasone, and its excipients.

Alternatives to Qvar Inhaler

• Fluticasone (Flovent HFA)
• Budesonide (Pulmicort Flexhaler)
• Mometasone (Asmanex Twisthaler)
• Ciclesonide (Alvesco

Buying Qvar Inhaler from A Trusted Online Source

Kiwi Drug offers affordable access to all medications to people on all continents. Subject to industry regulations, Kiwi uses professional pharmacists to ensure the clients receive the best services and maintain optimum quality of life. You need a doctor’s prescription when purchasing Qvar Inhaler or getting a refill. However, Kiwi’s online doctor may issue you one via the online doctor service from Kiwi, subject to a review of your medical profile. Otherwise, purchasing Qvar Inhaler from Kiwi Drug is straightforward and quick, involving:

• Signing up and adding the product to the cart
• Clicking on Checkout Now
• Answering the questions presented on the next page
• Entering payment details and waiting for your order to arrive.