Qvar RediHaler alternatives: What can I take instead of Qvar RediHaler?

In this article:

• Qvar RediHaler alternatives
• Fluticasone propionate
• Pulmicort Flexhaler
• Asmanex
• Advair
• Trelegy Ellipta
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch
• Choosing the right treatment

In this article

• Qvar RediHaler alternatives
• Fluticasone propionate
• Pulmicort Flexhaler
• Asmanex
• Advair
• Trelegy Ellipta
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch
• Choosing the right treatment

Qvar RediHaler is a brand-name inhaler that contains a corticosteroid called beclomethasone. This inhaled medication is used to control asthma and is a type of maintenance treatment that can be used in people 5 years of age and older. Qvar RediHaler works to reduce inflammation and help with breathing problems associated with asthma. This medication is used twice daily and is administered in a unique inhaler. As the name suggests, the RediHaler is ready-to-go and does not require any hand-breath coordination that other inhalers may require, as it is designed to release the medication with simply inhalation (no shaking or pressing the inhaler required).

While an effective treatment for some people, Qvar RediHaler may not be the best option for all people managing persistent asthma. There are a variety of other inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) medications available in different inhaler devices. People with less persistent asthma may only need a rescue inhaler like albuterol (Ventolin). On the other hand, some people with more severe asthma may need a few prescription drug therapies, such as combination inhalers.

RELATED: How much is Qvar RediHaler without insurance?

What can I take instead of Qvar RediHaler?

There are other options available to treat asthma symptoms and prevent asthma exacerbations that do not improve with Qvar RediHaler. Other inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and combinations with long-acting beta agonist (LABAs) exist. Triple combinations include an ICS, LABA, and a long-acting anticholinergic. There are oral options called leukotriene receptor antagonists such as Singulair (montelukast) and Accolate (zafirlukast). While Qvar RediHaler is currently only available as a brand-name inhaler, more affordable generics of alternatives have recently become available. Most of these alternative inhalers share common side effects of headache, oral thrush, hoarse voice, sinus infections, and upper respiratory infections. However, some alternatives have additional adverse effects that should be considered.

Top 5 Qvar RediHaler alternatives

The following are some of the most common alternatives to Qvar RediHaler.

1. Fluticasone propionate

Fluticasone propionate is a generic inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) medication formerly available under the brand names Flovent HFA and Flovent Diskus. This alternative is an asthma maintenance treatment that can be used in people 4 years of age and older. As a generic alternative, fluticasone propionate may be more affordable. Like Qvar RediHaler, this alternative is dosed twice daily and has similar side effects. Different types of inhalers are available, including a metered dose inhaler (HFA) and a dry powder inhaler (Diskus). The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) recommends using inhaled corticosteroids, like fluticasone, to help control asthma symptoms and exacerbations. This may be a well-suited alternative for those interested in a generic ICS medication with choices between types of inhalers.

RELATED: Qvar vs. Flovent: Differences, similarities, and which is better for you

2. Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide)

Pulmicort Flexhaler is a brand-name inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) medication used for asthma maintenance treatment in patients 6 years of age and older. The medicine in this inhaler is called budesonide. This alternative is used twice a day and is available as a Flexhaler device. Inhaler devices may differ in how they are administered, so it is important to learn the correct technique. This alternative may be suitable for those seeking an ICS inhaler for asthma maintenance.

3. Asmanex (mometasone furoate)

Asmanex is another brand-name ICS medication used for asthma maintenance treatment in patients 4 and older (Asmanex Twisthaler) and 5 years of age and older (Asmanex HFA). This inhaler contains the medication mometasone furoate. Available in two inhaler devices, Asmanex is used either once or twice a day, depending on the device, age, and previous therapies used. The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) recommends shared decision-making between the healthcare provider and patient when selecting an inhaler device to ensure the patient is properly trained to use the inhaler and is comfortable with administration. This alternative may be well-suited for those who require an ICS inhaler for asthma treatment.

4. Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol)

Advair is a brand name of a dual combination inhaler that is also available as a generic called fluticasone/salmeterol. Certain types of Advair inhalers can also be used to treat adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A benefit of this alternative is that a variety of inhaler devices are available, such as a metered dose inhaler (Advair HFA) and a dry powder inhaler (Advair Diskus), and there are generic options that can be more affordable. Advair contains two medications (corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonist) that can help improve asthma symptoms and lung function and reduce the risk of exacerbations. For people who require two medications, having them in one inhaler can help improve compliance. This may be a suitable alternative for those who need additional treatment support and want a variety of generic options and types of inhalers.

5. Trelegy Ellipta (fluticasone/umeclidinium/vilanterol)

Trelegy Ellipta is a triple combination brand-only inhaler used for asthma maintenance for people 18 or older. Also used for adults with COPD, this alternative is made up of three medicines that include an ICS (fluticasone furoate), a long-acting anticholinergic (umeclidinium bromide), and a LABA (vilanterol trifenatate). When asthma is not controlled despite trying dual combination inhaler therapy with an ICS and LABA, this alternative can help improve lung function and reduce exacerbations. Trelegy Ellipta has additional potential side effects, including altered taste, bronchitis, diarrhea, constipation, urinary tract infection, musculoskeletal pain, back pain, and pneumonia. This alternative may be best suited for people who need additional asthma treatment support or who have a history of severe asthma exacerbations.

Natural alternatives to Qvar RediHaler

While natural remedies can help complement prescription therapy, natural alternatives should not be used alone as there isn’t well-supported data. Lifestyle changes, diet modifications, and other therapies can help supplement an asthma treatment plan. The American Lung Association and Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) support controlling asthma symptoms by minimizing asthma triggers that can cause exacerbations.

Possible asthma triggers include:

• Air pollution
• Animal dander
• Aspirin
• Cigarette smoke
• Dust mites
• Exercise
• Fireplace or campfire smoke
• Food allergies, such as peanuts or shellfish
• High humidity
• Mold
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Respiratory infections (colds, flu, sinus infections)
• Strong emotions such as anxiety or fear
• Strong odors, including cleaning products, scented candles, and air fresheners
• Sudden or extreme temperature changes
• Trees or grass (pollen)

Other supported remedies are to quit smoking and vaping, as these activities are associated with an increased risk of asthma exacerbations. Pulmonary rehabilitation may help with exercise capacity and quality of life. This process typically includes aerobic training, nutritional advice, psychological counseling, and education. Regular exercise is encouraged for people with asthma. For those with exercise-induced asthma, techniques can be used to lessen this trigger by performing warm-ups before exercise, and taking a rescue inhaler or low-dose inhaled corticosteroid before the activity.

RELATED: 7 home remedies for asthma—and what to do if they don’t work

How to switch to a Qvar RediHaler alternative

1. Do not suddenly stop taking Qvar RediHaler

Before stopping Qvar RediHaler, make an asthma maintenance plan with a healthcare professional to avoid worsening asthma symptoms or exacerbations. Once a plan has been established, Qvar RediHaler can be safely discontinued and replaced with the new treatment.

2. Discuss all medications with a healthcare provider

Before switching asthma treatment, a healthcare provider should review all medication lists, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and supplements. Certain alternatives have drug interactions that must be avoided.

3. Discuss all health conditions with a healthcare provider

Healthcare providers must be aware of all medical conditions when switching asthma medication. Certain therapies must be used with caution or avoided with certain medical conditions.

Choosing the right path for asthma treatment

Each asthma treatment plan is personalized because asthma differs from person to person. Effective treatment is possible with a partnership between the healthcare provider and the patient to help meet specific needs. Proper training for inhaler administration is key to successful therapy and adherence, as improper technique could prevent the drug from being delivered.

It’s important to recognize the difference between maintenance inhalers and rescue inhalers. Rescue inhalers are short-acting and used for sudden asthma attacks, such as trouble breathing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, or shortness of breath. Maintenance inhalers are used daily to prevent asthma attacks and improve symptoms.