Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Qvar RediHaler (beclomethasone) and Breo Ellipta (fluticasone/vilanterol) are both inhalers used to manage asthma, but they have some key differences. Qvar RediHaler is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) used twice a day to control asthma by reducing inflammation in the lungs. It doesn't have a generic form and shouldn't be used with a spacer. Breo Ellipta, on the other hand, is a combination of fluticasone, an ICS, and vilanterol, a long-acting beta agonist. It is taken once a day and can be used to manage both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Breo Ellipta is available in a generic form and contains lactose, which can be an issue if you're allergic to milk proteins. Both medications require you to rinse your mouth after use to prevent oral thrush, a type of fungal infection, but Breo Ellipta also has a risk of heart-related side effects due to the LABA component.
Qvar redihaler (beclomethasone)
Breo ellipta (fluticasone / vilanterol)
Qvar redihaler (beclomethasone)
Breo ellipta (fluticasone / vilanterol)
Summary of Qvar RediHaler vs. Breo Ellipta
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 ICS / LABA combo
Prescription only
Breo is a combination inhaler used for maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma in adults and children. It contains two active ingredients, fluticasone (an inhaled corticosteroid, or ICS) and vilanterol (a long-acting beta agonist, or LABA). Breo Ellipta (fluticasone / vilanterol) is inhaled through the mouth once per day. It's available as a lower-cost generic. Side effects can differ based on your age and your Breo Ellipta (fluticasone / vilanterol) dose, but generally include upper respiratory tract infections, sore throat, and headache.
Indications of Qvar RediHaler vs. Breo Ellipta
Indications for
•Maintenance treatment of asthma in people ages 4 years and older