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Compare Qvar RediHaler vs. Pulmicort Flexhaler

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

Key takeaways

Qvar RediHaler (beclomethasone) and Pulmicort Flexhaler (budesonide) are both inhaled corticosteroids used to control and prevent asthma symptoms, but they have some differences. Qvar RediHaler is approved for use in children as young as 4 years old, whereas Pulmicort Flexhaler is approved for children starting at age 6. Both medications need to be taken every day and are not suitable for treating sudden asthma attacks. Qvar RediHaler should not be used with a spacer, while Pulmicort Flexhaler does not have this restriction. Both medications can cause fungal infections in the mouth and throat, so you should rinse your mouth after each use. Pulmicort Flexhaler starts controlling asthma symptoms within 8 days, whereas it may take up to 2 weeks for there to be noticeable effects for Qvar Redihalelr. Additionally, it can take up to 6 weeks to see the full effects of Pulmicort Flexhaler, while the full effects of Qvar RediHaler are seen within 4 weeks.

  • 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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