Description
Generic Name: beclomethasone dipropionate
Drug Class: corticosteroid
Indications
Qvar Inhaler is an oral prescription inhalation used as maintenance treatment and prophylactic therapy for asthma among patients 5 years of age and above. It controls breathing symptoms, such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.
Qvar Inhaler Dosage
This is available in Qvar 50 mcg and 100mcg per actuation.
Qvar Inhaler Mechanism of Action
The exact action of this oral inhaler is still unknown. However, it acts on multiple cell types and mediators that are responsible for inflammation. It works directly in the lungs by reducing the swelling of the airways to make breathing easier.
How to use Qvar
Before you take Qvar Inhaler product, you must read the patient information leaflet or brochure that comes with it. Do not use this oral inhaler unless you thoroughly understand all the information and instructions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
This is usually prescribed twice a day, twelve hours apart. Make a dosing regimen so you don’t forget to take your medication. Do not increase/decrease your Qvar Inhaler dosage or use this inhaler more frequently than prescribed.
Step-by-step Guide on using Qvar Inhaler.
- First, remove the cap from the mouthpiece. Ensure that the canister is inserted correctly into the device or actuator.
- Prime the inhaler by checking the black dot on the dose counter. Hold the inhaler in an upright manner, with the mouthpiece away from you. Press the canister two times to release two actuations in the air. Then, check the dose counter if it displays “120”, which indicates that the inhaler is ready to use.
- Exhale fully but deeply.
- Still in a vertical position, put the mouthpiece inside the mouth and seal your lips around it.
- Breathe in deeply & slowly as you press the canister into the device.
- Hold your breath for around 10 seconds, or as long as you feel comfortable doing so.
- Release the canister and remove the mouthpiece from your mouth.
- Exhale gently.
- If you need to take two actuations, repeat steps 3-7.
- Once finished, rinse your mouth with water and put the mouthpiece cap back.
Qvar Inhaler Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Headache
-Hoarseness
-Dry or sore throat
-Voice changes
-Bad taste in the mouth
-Stuffy nose
Severe Side Effects:
-Ear pain
-Fever
-Chills
-Oral thrush
-Unusual tiredness
-Easy bruising or bleeding
-Puffy face
-Vision problems
-Muscle weakness
-Slow wound healing
-Mental or mood changes
Note: This is not a complete list of possible negative effects. You must contact your doctor or a healthcare professional if any side effects persist or worsen.
Warnings and Precautions
Do not take this oral inhalation spray if you have an allergy to beclomethasone or any inactive ingredients it contains. Signs of serious allergic reactions are severe dizziness, skin rashes, swelling of the face and neck, hives, swollen lymph nodes, and trouble breathing. This must be considered a medical emergency. Immediately call for emergency help if this happens.
Qvar Inhaler drug may be contraindicated for people with a history of gastrointestinal problems, thyroid problems, eye disease, liver disease, diabetes, bone loss, recent infections, mental or mood disorders, and bleeding problems. Due to possible drug interactions, it is also important to talk about all the prescription drugs, OTC drugs, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
A weakened defense system can be caused by the use of steroids. This drug can possibly mask signs of infection or make you more likely to get an infection. Do not come in contact with people who have or have recently acquired infections, such as flu, chickenpox, or measles.
If you are pregnant/breastfeeding, you should talk to your doctor about the possible risks of Qvar Inhaler and the possible effects on unborn babies and breastfed infants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Qvar a steroid inhaler?
Qvar Inhaler (generic: beclomethasone) belongs to the drug class corticosteroids. It helps by reducing pulmonary inflammation.
How quickly does Qvar work?
Some patients experience breathing symptoms relief within 24 hours. However, it may take about three to four weeks before you experience the full benefits of this inhalation.
Can Qvar be used as a rescue inhaler?
This oral inhaler is not indicated to manage acute bronchospasm. You must have a separate quick-relief inhaler for asthma attacks.
Are Qvar and Ventolin the same?
Both oral inhalations are used to control and prevent asthma. On the other hand, only Ventolin can be used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm.
Does Qvar make you gain weight?
Weight gain is not a direct effect of this oral steroid inhalation. Its steroid content is low. Thus, gaining weight is hardly an adverse reaction.
Can I buy a Qvar Inhaler over the counter?
This inhaler is a prescription medication. You need to have a valid prescription before purchasing this from any pharmacy. Check out the Qvar Inhaler price on top of this page by clicking here.