Key takeaways
Beclomethasone (Qvar RediHaler) and fluticasone (Flovent) are both inhaled corticosteroids used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in people aged 4 years and older. They help reduce inflammation in the lungs to improve breathing. However, there are several differences between these medications. Beclomethasone is available only as the brand name Qvar RediHaler, while fluticasone is available as both the brand name Flovent and a lower-cost generic. Qvar RediHaler is a breath-actuated inhaler, whereas Flovent comes in two forms: the HFA inhaler, which uses a propellant, and the Diskus inhaler, which is a dry powder inhaler. The dosing for Qvar RediHaler ranges from 40 mcg to 320 mcg per inhalation, while Flovent HFA offers doses from 44 mcg to 220 mcg, and Flovent Diskus ranges from 50 mcg to 250 mcg. Both medications can cause an oral fungal infection (thrush). You can reduce your risk for thrush by rinsing your mouth out with water every time you use the inhaler.
