Qvar Inhaler (Beclomethasone)

Do’s

• Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before starting to use Qvar Inhaler and each time you get a refill. This leaflet contains detailed instructions for the proper use of the medication. If you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider.
• Follow the instructions for priming the inhaler, especially if you are using a canister for the first time or if you have not used it for 10 days or more. There is no need to shake the inhaler.
• Inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 2 times a day. The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment.
• Wait at least one minute between puffs if your prescribed dose is 2 puffs. Additionally, if using other inhalers at the same time, waiting at least 1 minute between the use of each medication and using the corticosteroid last is advised.
• To prevent dry mouth, hoarseness, and oral yeast infections from developing, gargle, rinse your mouth with water, and spit out after each use.
• Keep track of the number of inhalations used and discard the canister after using the labeled number of inhalations on the package, even if it feels as though there is medication left in the canister. Follow the instructions for cleaning the inhaler.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.
• Learn which of your inhalers should be used every day (controller drugs) and which should be used if your breathing suddenly worsens (quick-relief drugs). Ask your healthcare provider ahead of time what you should do in various scenarios related to your breathing.
• While you may begin to feel this medication working within 24 hours, it may take 3 weeks or longer before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Inform your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Don’ts

• Avoid getting the medication in your eyes when priming or using the inhaler.
• Do not swallow the rinse water after washing your mouth.
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed.
• Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare provider. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped, and your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
• If you are regularly taking a different corticosteroid by mouth (such as prednisone), do not stop taking it unless directed by your healthcare provider. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped, and withdrawal symptoms may occur.

• Paradoxical Bronchospasm
• Hypersensitivity reactions, such as urticaria, angioedema, rash, and bronchospasm
• Hypercorticism and adrenal suppression
• Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
• Reduction in bone mineral density
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Increased susceptibility to infections due to immunosuppression

The above information is not exhaustive, and individuals using Qvar Inhaler should consult their healthcare provider for comprehensive guidance and advice tailored to their specific medical history and condition.

Qvar Inhaler is not a rescue medicine for asthma attacks. It should not be used to treat an asthma attack that has already begun. In case of an asthma attack, use fast-acting inhalation medicine and seek medical attention if breathing problems worsen quickly.

Read and carefully follow the instructions for using Qvar Inhaler, priming the inhaler device, and cleaning the device. Additionally, do not open the cap until ready to take the inhalation, and never breathe out into the inhaler mouthpiece.

Stopping the use of Qvar Inhaler suddenly may worsen the condition. Use all asthma medications as directed, and any changes in dosage should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Qvar Inhaler is contraindicated in the primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma where intensive measures are required. 

Patients using Qvar Inhaler, as with other corticosteroids, are more susceptible to infections and should avoid contact with individuals with contagious diseases. Discuss any concerns about immunosuppression with a healthcare provider.

Individuals allergic to beclomethasone (the active ingredient in Qvar Inhaler) or any other drugs, foods, or substances should inform their healthcare provider about the allergy and any related signs experienced.