Theochron (branded generic) vs. Qvar RediHaler for Asthma: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Theophylline (Theo-24, Elixophyllin, Theochron) and Qvar RediHaler (beclomethasone) are both used to help manage asthma, but they work in different ways and have different uses. Theophylline is a nonselective PDE inhibitor that acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles in your airways to help you breathe easier. It is available in both pill and liquid forms, including generic versions. However, it is not a first-choice medication for asthma or COPD because it requires regular blood tests and can interact with other medications. On the other hand, Qvar RediHaler is an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in your lungs to prevent asthma attacks. It is used twice daily and should be taken consistently to be effective. It should not be used for treating sudden asthma symptoms. Unlike theophylline, Qvar RediHaler does not have a generic version. Additionally, Qvar RediHaler can cause fungal infections in the mouth if you don't rinse your mouth after use, while theophylline can cause side effects similar to having too much caffeine such as a headache or trouble sleeping.

Theophylline

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Qvar RediHaler

(beclomethasone)

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Summary for Theochron (branded generic)

Prescription only

Theophylline is a long-term medication that helps you breathe easier when you have asthma or COPD, but it is not a first-choice medication for these problems.

Indications for Theochron (branded generic)

Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Pros and Cons for Theochron (branded generic)

Pros

Can help you breathe easier when other medications do not work well enough
Available as a 24-hour pill form that can be taken once a day
Both the pill and liquid forms are available in cheaper generic versions

Cons

Does not work quickly and will not help if you are currently having an asthma or COPD attack
Requires regular blood tests to check theophylline lab levels
Can interact with with other medications or supplements
Food affects absorption, so you have to be consistent with how you take theophylline

Common Side Effects for Theochron (branded generic)

Feeling like you had too much caffeine (nausea, vomiting, headache, inability to sleep)

Warnings for Theochron (branded generic)

WORSENING OF OTHER CONDITIONS
THEOPHYLLINE TOXICITY
INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER MEDICATIONS

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

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