QVAR® RediHaler™ (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA)

QVAR® RediHaler™ Inhalation Aerosol (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA) is a breath-actuated inhaled corticosteroid. It is indicated to prevent asthma attacks in adults and children over age 4.^1-3 QVAR comes as a RediHaler. It is used as a maintenance treatment for bronchial asthma and is not indicated for the relief of an acute asthma attack.^2,3

How does QVAR work?

QVAR is a preventive drug, it does not take the place of a rescue inhaler. QVAR helps reduce airway inflammation.¹ It is in the class of drugs called corticosteroids. They have a wide range of anti-inflammatory effects on multiple cell types involved in the large and small airways that can trigger asthma.^1,2

Your doctor may prescribe short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol for emergency relief of an acute asthma attack.^1-3

What is the active ingredient in QVAR?

The active ingredient in QVAR is beclomethasone dipropionate HFA.^1-3

What are some of the possible side effects of QVAR?

The most common side effects of QVAR include:^1-3

• Headache
• Runny nose
• Sore throat or nose
• Upper respiratory or sinus infection

QVAR can cause rare but serious side effects, including:^1-3

• Fungal infections in your mouth or throat (thrush)
• Worsening asthma
• Reduced adrenal function
• Serious allergic reactions including rash, swelling of the mouth, tongue, and face
• Breathing problems including increased wheezing or choking
• Immunosuppression – an increased risk of infection due to weakened immune system
• Slowed growth in children
• Decreased bone density
• Changes in vision especially if there is a history of glaucoma, cataracts, or blurry vision

These are not all the possible side effects of QVAR RediHaler. Talk to your doctor about what to expect or if you experience any changes that concern you during treatment with QVAR RediHaler.

Things to know about QVAR RediHaler

Before starting QVAR, you should talk to your doctor about all drugs (prescription and over the counter), supplements, and vitamins you are taking. Some drugs or supplements may interfere with each other. This means both drugs may work less well, or you may have serious side effects.^1-3

Before starting treatment with beclomethasone dipropionate HFA, discuss all of your health conditions with your doctor, especially:^1-3

• Hypersensitivity to beclomethasone dipropionate HFA
• Hyperadrenocorticism
• Have been in contact with bacterial, fungal or viral infections; chicken pox or measles
• Tuberculosis, herpes, or other infections
• Osteoporosis
• Certain conditions of the eyes including toxicities or herpes simplex, blurry or tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights

Beclomethasone dipropionate HFA is not recommended for children under 4. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed while using QVAR^1-3

Other considerations

Asthma is usually treated with a combination of drugs. If symptoms arise between doses, an inhaled short-acting drug can be taken for immediate relief.^1-3 Because of certain side effects that can be caused by QVAR your doctor may recommend tests for monitoring changes in vision, lung function, and signs of infection.^2,3

A healthcare provider or respiratory therapist can show you how to use the inhaler properly.^1,3 QVAR should be stored at room temperature away from extreme heat or cold.^1-3

Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any questions about your drugs or your inhalation regimen.^1-3View full prescribing information.