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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)

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Pulmicort Flexhaler

(budesonide)

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Summary for Qvar RediHaler

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.

Indications for Qvar RediHaler

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

Pros and Cons for Qvar RediHaler

Pros

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

Common Side Effects for Qvar RediHaler

Warnings for Qvar RediHaler

  • 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

Summary for Pulmicort Flexhaler

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 for Pulmicort Flexhaler

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

Pros and Cons for Pulmicort Flexhaler

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 for Pulmicort Flexhaler

Warnings for Pulmicort Flexhaler

  • 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

Price Card Drug Icon
Qvar1 redihaler / 10.6g of 80mcg
$263.89$366.28
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Price Card Drug Icon
Budesonide30 ampules / 0.5mg/2ml
$48.30$127.00
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