Is QVAR a Good Inhaled Steroid for Asthma?

Question: Is QVAR a Good Inhaled Steroid for Asthma?

Answer: Yes. QVAR (beclomethasone) is an inhaled steroid used to treat the underlying inflammation that occurs in most cases of asthma. Inhaled steroids, which control the underlying inflammation of asthma, are usually taken on a daily basis, while albuterol inhalers are used as-needed to treat the immediate symptoms of asthma. QVAR is indicated for adults and children 5 years of age and older, at a recommended starting dose of 40 micrograms twice a day for children 5 to 11 years of age, and at 40 to 160 micrograms twice a day for adults and children 12 years of age and older. QVAR is available in two strengths, 40 micrograms per puff and 80 micrograms per puff.

There are many brands of inhaled steroids available to treat the underlying inflammation of asthma, and these medications all work about the same. QVAR does have some advantages over the other inhaled steroids, however. QVAR typically costs less than most other inhaled steroids (depending on the medical insurance company), and according to Drugstore.com, is more than 20% less than the next-cheapest inhaled steroid.

In addition, QVAR may work more efficiently by reaching deeper into the lungs than other inhaled steroids. The QVAR particle is far smaller than most inhaled steroids, which allows the medication to reach all the way to small airways, and even the aveoli. This apparently is an important characteristic for an inhaled steroid, as a study published in September 2010 showed that asthmatics using QVAR were able to achieve control of their asthma with lower comparable doses, which may translate into fewer steroid side effects.

Learn more about best medications for the treatment of asthma.

_Sources:

_{Price D, Martin RJ, Barnes N, et al. Prescribing Practices and Asthma Control with Hydrofluoroalkane-Beclomethasone and Fluticasone: A Real-World Observational Study. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;126:511-8.}

_{QVAR Package Insert. Teva Pharmaceuticals. Website accessed February 28, 2011.}

_{Drugstore.com. Website accessed Februrary 28, 2011.}

_{Expert Panel Report 3 (EPR3): Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma. Accessed Februrary 28, 2011.}

_{DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Please see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.}