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Compare Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Beclomethasone (Qvar RediHaler) and budesonide (Pulmicort Flexhaler) are both inhaled corticosteroids used for the maintenance treatment of asthma. They help reduce inflammation and swelling in the lungs, making it easier to breathe. However, there are some differences between the two medications. Qvar RediHaler is approved for use in people ages 4 and older, while Pulmicort Flexhaler is for those 6 and older. Qvar RediHaler is a breath-actuated inhaler, meaning it releases medication when you inhale, whereas Pulmicort Flexhaler is a dry powder inhaler that requires priming before first use. Both medications are typically taken twice daily. Additionally, Pulmicort Flexhaler contains lactose, so it is not suitable for those with a milk protein allergy. Common side effects of Qvar RediHaler include upper respiratory tract infections and oral thrush, while Pulmicort Flexhaler may cause symptoms of the common cold and sore throat. Both medications are only avaialble in a branded version.

  • Qvar redihaler (beclomethasone)
    Pulmicort flexhaler (budesonide)
  • Qvar redihaler (beclomethasone)
    Pulmicort flexhaler (budesonide)

  • Summary of Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

    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 Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)
    Prescription only

    Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide) is an inhaled corticosteroid. It's used in adults and children for the maintenance treatment of asthma. It's a type of dry powder inhaler that's inhaled through the mouth twice per day. Side effects include the common cold and sore throat.

  • Indications of Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

    Indications for
    •Maintenance treatment of asthma in people ages 4 years and older
    Indications for
    •Maintenance treatment of asthma in people ages 6 years and older

  • Pros and Cons of Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

    Pros and Const for Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)
    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
    Pros and Const for Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for controlling asthma symptoms
    •Inhaling into the lungs, which has fewer side effects than taking steroid pills by mouth
    •Possible option for children as young as 6 years old
    Cons
    •Doesn't treat an asthma attack
    •Needs to be inhaled twice per day
    •Contains lactose, so not a good choice for people with a milk protein allergy

  • Common Side Effects of Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

    Common Side Effects for
    •Fungal infection in the mouth or throat (up to 7%)
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (up to 4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Common cold (9%)
    •Stuffy nose (3%)
    •Sore throat (3%)

  • Warnings of Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

    Common Side Effects for
    •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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Not for use in asthma attack or for worsening breathing
    •Fungal infection in the mouth
    •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

  • Prices with our coupons for Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

    Learn more about Qvar redihaler
    Learn more about Pulmicort flexhaler

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