Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
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)
Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Qvar redihaler (beclomethasone)
Fexofenadine (Allegra)
Summary of Qvar RediHaler vs. Allegra
Summary for Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)
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.
Summary for Antihistamine
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 of Qvar RediHaler vs. Allegra
Indications for
•Maintenance treatment of asthma in people ages 4 years and older
Indications for
•Short-term relief of allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, itchy nose or throat)