QVAR inhalers from the US and from the UK deliver exactly the same dose per actuation. The difference on the label is because the medicine is measured at a different point in the device. QVAR from the USA is identical to QVAR form the United Kingdom.
Information about QVAR Inhaler (Beclomethasone)
QVAR is an inhaler that contains beclomethasone dipropionate, a corticosteroid medication used to prevent and control asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms. As a long-acting inhaled corticosteroid, beclomethasone works by reducing inflammation in the airways, making it easier to breathe. The QVAR inhaler is typically used as a maintenance treatment and is not designed for immediate relief during an asthma attack.
Product Highlights
- QVAR is used for the long-term management of asthma symptoms in both adults and children over the age of 4. It helps prevent asthma attacks by decreasing inflammation in the airways.
- It is used as part of the maintenance treatment for COPD to improve lung function and reduce flare-ups associated with the disease.
- QVAR may also be used to prevent bronchoconstriction (narrowing of the airways) triggered by exercise in some patients.
Key Ingredient
- Beclomethasone Dipropionate
Key Benefits
- Helps to decrease airway inflammation, preventing symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
- By reducing swelling in the airways, QVAR improves airflow and lung function over time.
- Regular use helps to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
- Provides continuous, long-term control of asthma and COPD symptoms with regular use.
- As a local treatment for the lungs, QVAR has a lower risk of systemic side effects compared to oral corticosteroids.
Direction of Use
- Shake the inhaler well before use.
- The standard dose is determined by the severity of the condition and the patient's age. The usual starting dose for asthma in adults is 40-80 mcg twice daily, which can be adjusted based on response. For COPD, dosing varies, but generally, it is used once or twice a day.
Inhalation Technique
- Remove the cap from the inhaler.
- Shake the inhaler well.
- Breathe out fully, away from the inhaler.
- Place the mouthpiece in your mouth, seal your lips around it, and inhale deeply and slowly while pressing down on the canister to release the medication.
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds to allow the medication to reach and settle in the airways.
- If a second dose is required, wait a minute before inhaling again.
- After using the inhaler, rinse your mouth to prevent the risk of oral thrush and other potential side effects.
Safety Concerns
- Inhaled corticosteroids may raise the risk of fungal infections in the mouth or throat. Rinsing the mouth after each use helps reduce this risk.
- Some users may experience hoarseness or throat irritation.
- Long-term use of high doses of beclomethasone in children may affect growth, although this is generally a rare side effect.
- Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to bone thinning or osteoporosis, particularly in adults.
- Long-term use of corticosteroids can affect the adrenal glands, particularly if the medication is abruptly stopped.
- Steroid use may increase the risk of infections due to its immune-suppressing effects.
- Prolonged use may contribute to cataracts or glaucoma.
Avoid QVAR Inhaler (Beclomethasone) If
- Avoid use if you have a known allergy to beclomethasone or any other ingredients in the inhaler.
- QVAR is not intended for the treatment of an acute asthma attack. A fast-acting inhaler (such as albuterol) should be used for immediate relief.
- Avoid using QVAR if you have an untreated infection in the respiratory system, as corticosteroids can suppress the immune system and worsen the infection.
- Patients with active tuberculosis or other serious infections should not use QVAR.
- Children with a history of growth suppression due to corticosteroid use should use QVAR under careful medical supervision.
- Individuals with severe liver or kidney issues may need special dosing instructions or monitoring while using QVAR.
