Qvar RediHaler vs. Allegra for Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Qvar RediHaler (beclomethasone) and Allegra (fexofenadine) are used for different health conditions and belong to different medication classes. Qvar is an inhaled corticosteroid used to manage asthma by reducing lung inflammation, while Allegra is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms and hives. Qvar requires a prescription and must be used twice daily, whereas Allegra is available over-the-counter and can be taken as needed. Qvar is not suitable for treating sudden asthma attacks, whereas Allegra starts working within 2 hours so it can be taken when allergy symptoms start. Additionally, Qvar can cause oral thrush if you don't rinse your mouth after use, while Allegra's common side effects include headache and dry mouth. Unlike Qvar, Allegra is available in multiple forms, including tablets, fast-melting tablets, and liquid.

Qvar RediHaler

(beclomethasone)

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Fexofenadine

(Allegra)

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Summary for Qvar RediHaler

Prescription only

QVAR RediHaler, the brand name for beclomethasone dipropionate HFA inhaler, is an inhaled corticosteroid. It's used in people ages 4 years and older for the maintenance treatment of asthma. This medication is inhaled through the mouth twice per day. Like other inhaled steroid medications, Qvar RediHaler (beclomethasone) can cause upper respiratory tract infections and oral thrush as side effects.

Indications for Qvar RediHaler

Maintenance treatment of asthma in people ages 4 years and older

Pros and Cons for Qvar RediHaler

Pros

Breath-actuated inhaler; might be easier to use than metered-dose inhalers
Works directly in the lungs, so it has fewer side effects compared to oral steroids
Considered safe while pregnant

Cons

Might need to use 4 inhalations daily (2 puffs twice daily)
Can take up to 2 weeks to have better control of asthma symptoms, and up to 4 weeks for full effects
Can cause fungal infections in the mouth and throat, especially if you don't rinse your mouth after each use

Common Side Effects for Qvar RediHaler

Fungal infection in the mouth or throat (up to 7%)
Upper respiratory tract infection (up to 4%)

Warnings for Qvar RediHaler

Not for use in asthma attack or for worsening breathing
Fungal infection in the mouth (thrush)
Narrowing of your airways (bronchospasm)
Higher risk of infections
Changes in stress hormone levels
Delayed growth in children
Weakening bones
Eye and vision problems
Allergic reactions

Summary for Allegra

Over-the-counter

Fexofenadine (Allegra) is an antihistamine. It's used to ease symptoms of allergy and hives in adults and children. Fexofenadine (Allegra) can be found over the counter as a tablet, fast-melting tablet, and liquid. This medication is taken once or twice per day, depending on the formulation. Fexofenadine (Allegra) starts to work in about 2 hours and its effects can last up to 24 hours. Fexofenadine (Allegra) doesn't make you as drowsy compared to some other antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Other possible side effects of fexofenadine (Allegra) include headache and dry mouth.

Indications for Allegra

Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat)
Treatment of hives

Pros and Cons for Allegra

Pros

First-choice option for relieving allergy symptoms
Some products can also be used to relieve itchiness from hives.
Available as 12-hour and 24-hour tablets, as well as a liquid and quick-dissolving tablets for those who have a hard time swallowing pills
All formulations available over the counter

Cons

Liquid form might not be the best choice for people on a low-salt diet because it contains sodium
Once-daily formulations not recommended for children younger than 12 years old
Might have a higher risk of side effects if you have liver or kidney problems
Can cause headache