Qvar

The active ingredient in Qvar is beclomethasone dipropionate. It belongs to a class of medications known as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Individuals with asthma symptoms have ongoing airflow problems in the lungs. These work to decrease the inflammation of the airways in your lungs to improve airflow and make breathing easier.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Qvar. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Qvar:

• Use this medication exactly as directed by your physician.
• With your lips firmly around the Qvar RediHaler mouthpiece, take a deep breath to get the medication into your lungs. Hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds to allow time for the medication to reach deep into your lungs, then breathe out. A spacer does not need to be used with this inhaler.
• Rinse your mouth with water and spit after each inhalation to prevent fungal infections.
• Clean the mouthpiece of the inhaler using clean, dry tissues at least once weekly. Don't wash any part of the inhaler with water.
• Use the dose counter to track how many doses you have left so you know when to get a refill. When the display window shows a red zone, that means you only have 20 inhalations left, and you should get a refill. When the display window reads "0", throw your inhaler away, even if the canister isn't completely empty.

The most common side effects of Qvar include:

• Yeast infection in the mouth (oral candidiasis).
• Sore throat.
• Upper respiratory tract infection.
• Sinusitis.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Qvar. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Fungal infections (thrush) in the mouth and throat.
• Reduced adrenal gland function (adrenal insufficiency) - feeling fatigued, low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, vomiting.
• Immune system effects - fever, chills, body aches.
• Worsening of existing tuberculosis, fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infection, or herpes eye infections.
• Increased wheezing (bronchospasm), worsening asthma, or sudden asthma attacks.
• Serious allergic reactions - hives, swelling, skin rash, shortness of breath.
• Slowed growth in children.
• Lower bone mineral density.
• Eye problems.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Qvar. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Qvar, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Osteoporosis.
• Issues with your immune system.
• Blurred vision, glaucoma, or cataracts.
• Current infections that have not been managed.
• Have not had or been vaccinated against chickenpox or measles.
• Tuberculosis.

• Previous allergic reaction/hypersensitivity to beclomethasone dipropionate or any of the inactive ingredients in the inhaler.
• Primary treatment of status asthmaticus or other acute episodes of asthma, where intensive measures are required.

Qvar may take several weeks to see the full benefits of use.

When Qvar is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Medications to control seizures.
• Corticosteroids.
• Medication that suppresses your immune system.

Qvar is available in a variety of dosage forms, including:

• 40 mcg per puff breath-actuated inhaler (120 actuations).
• 80 mcg per puff breath-actuated inhaler (120 actuations).

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Qvar.

There are no lower-cost generics of the brand-name Qvar.

Do not stop or adjust your use of this inhaler without first consulting with your healthcare provider. Stopping this medication suddenly can increase your risk of breathing problems and asthma attacks.

It is unknown if or how Qvar RediHaler could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown if Qvar RediHaler passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.