Qvar

A Qvar inhaler is a preventative asthma inhaler used to treat asthma. It is a type of inhaler known as an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) which contains a mild steroid. It is also sold under several other brand names, such as AeroBec.

You take it daily to keep inflammation in the airways down and prevent you from reacting to asthma triggers like weather, pollen and dust mites. It also helps prevent symptoms of an asthma attack.

However, it cannot treat an asthma attack once it has started. You will still need to carry your blue reliever inhaler and use it when an asthma attack starts.

It is available as three different types of metered dose inhalers (MDIs): Qvar Aerosol, Autohaler and Easi-Breathe inhalers.

Asthma symptoms are caused by inflamed airways. This makes them more sensitive to environmental triggers which causes them to narrow.

The active ingredient of Qvar is a steroid called beclometasone. It works by reducing inflammation in the airways throughout the day.

This means your lungs and respiratory system are not so sensitive to asthma triggers. You can go about your day without worrying about an asthma attack. You should still always carry your reliever inhaler with you.

Qvar has extra-fine particles which means it is stronger than other beclometasone inhalers like Clenil Modulite.

Qvar inhalers are suitable for most people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Only in some cases should you be cautious. You should consult your doctor before taking it if you:

• have ever had tuberculosis (TB)
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• are taking other medicines (especially corticosteroids)

You should not use a Qvar inhaler if you are allergic to beclometasone.

Always ask your doctor if you’re not sure.

All Qvar inhalers come with instructions on how to use them. Read the information leaflet thoroughly before using your inhaler.

Some people find the Autohalers and Easi-Breathe inhalers easier to use. This is because they require less coordination. Your doctor may also recommend you use a spacer.

If it’s a new inhaler or you have not used it for 2 weeks or more, test it before using it. Press two puffs in the air to check it works.

You should also clean your inhaler regularly using dry tissue or cloth. Do not use water - this can damage your device. Cleaning it will prevent side effects like oral thrush.

How to use a Qvar Aersol inhaler

1. Take the cover off the mouthpiece
2. Breathe out as far as is comfortable and then immediately place the mouthpiece in your mouth. Close your lips around it.
3. Start to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth. Press down on the canister inside the inhaler. Carry on breathing in as the puff is released.
4. Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly. Repeat steps 2 - 4 if your doctor has told you to take more puffs.
5. Rinse your mouth with water after use.

How to use a Qvar Autohaler

1. Take the cover off from the mouthpiece by pulling down on the lip at the back.
2. Hold the device upright. Push the lever up so it stays up. Make sure your hand is not blocking the air vent at the bottom of the device.
3. Breathe out as far as is comfortable and then immediately place the mouthpiece in your mouth. Close your lips around it.
4. Breathe in slowly and deeply through the mouthpiece. You should hear a slight click and feel the puff in your mouth. Keep breathing in after the puff is released.
5. Hold your breath for 10 seconds and then breathe out slowly.
6. Lower the level after each puff. If your doctor has told you to take more than one puff, repeat steps 2 - 6.
7. Rinse your mouth with water after use.

How to use a Qvar Easi-Breathe inhaler

1. Open the inhaler by folding down the cap on the mouthpiece. The vent should open on the top of the device.
2. Breathe out as far as is comfortable. Hold the mouthpiece firmly between your lips and ensure your hand is not blocking the vent.
3. Breathe in slowly and deeply through the mouthpiece. Keep breathing in as the inhaler releases the dose into your mouth.
4. Take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for 10 seconds. Then breathe out slowly.
5. Once you have finished, hold the device upright and close the cap immediately.
6. If your doctor has told you to take another dose, wait one minute and repeat steps 1 - 5.
7. Rinse your mouth with water after use.

Each inhaler is available in 50mcg and 100mcg per actuation (puff).

Your GP will instruct you on how many puffs you should take each day. If you forget to take your inhaler, take your dose as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.

If you use more than you should, consult your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.

Like most prescription medications, Qvar inhalers may cause some side effects. Most common side effects are mild and go away on their own.

However, if any common side effects continue, talk to your doctor.

Qvar side effects include the following.

Rarely, you may experience more severe side effects such as an allergic reaction.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• hives
• swelling around the face and neck
• difficulty breathing

If you experience these signs, stop using your inhaler and seek immediate medical attention.

Qvar inhalers can also affect cortisol levels in your body. Keep taking your inhaler but talk to your doctor if you experience unexplained symptoms such as:

• abdominal pain
• nausea
• weakness

Read the patient information leaflet for a full list of side effects.

If you have been diagnosed with asthma, your GP will prescribe you Qvar if they think it’s appropriate for you. It will be part of your asthma action plan with your reliever inhaler.

You can then get it on a repeat prescription from your local pharmacy. You can also order it from an online pharmacy and have your inhaler delivered to your door.