Information on Qvar Inhaler

Qvar is a brand name of the prescription inhalant corticosteroid medication beclomethasone dipropionate. Doctors typically prescribe Qvar for the treatment of asthma.

Function

• When inhaled, Qvar enters your lungs, where it reduces inflammation by blocking the work of immune-system cells and chemicals that contribute to the narrowing of your airways.

Effects

• Because Qvar relieves inflammation, using the inhaler daily decreases the severity and frequency of your asthma symptoms over time, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Types

• Qvar is available in 40mcg and 80mcg versions. Your doctor will select the formulation best for you based upon your age, size, severity of symptoms and the other medications you use to control your asthma, if any.

Risks

• The most common side effects of Qvar include cold-like symptoms, coughing, dry mouth or throat, headaches, sore throat, hoarseness or a deepening of your voice. Because Qvar suppresses the activities of your immune system, it makes you more susceptible to infections like chicken pox and measles, reports RxList.

Considerations

• Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, doctors restrict the use of Qvar in pregnant women to instances where there is no safe alternative to treatment. If you have a history of cirrhosis, glaucoma, hypothyroidism, untreated bacterial or fungal infections, bone disease or tuberculosis, it may not be safe for you to take Qvar due to its side effects, according to the Mayo Clinic.