(Click Qvar Uses for more information on what Qvar is used for, including possible off-label uses of the medication.)
Qvar is made by Ivax Laboratories.
Normally, air moves easily into and out of the lungs through a network of airways. If you have
asthma, however, the inside walls of your airways are inflamed (swollen). The inflammation makes the airways very sensitive, and they tend to react strongly to things that you are allergic to or find irritating
(see Asthma Triggers). When the airways react, a few things happen. The muscles around these airways tighten, inflammation inside the airways increases, and cells inside the airways produce more mucus. This narrows the airways and makes it harder to breathe.
Qvar is an
asthma medication that belongs to a group of drugs called inhaled corticosteroids, or steroids for short. Inhaled steroids go directly into the lungs and help to decrease the inflammation of airways that makes asthma attacks more likely. Because Qvar does not work quickly, it should not be used for treating an asthma attack. Rather, it is used twice a day in order to prevent asthma attacks.
Because Qvar is inhaled directly into the lungs, the rest of the body is exposed to lower steroid levels, compared to steroids taken by mouth. This helps reduce or eliminate many of the side effects associated with long-term steroid use.
(Click Asthma Treatment for information about other medicines used for treating asthma.)
In clinical studies, people taking Qvar had improvements in breathing and
asthma symptoms, compared to those not taking Qvar. In studies, people already taking oral steroids for
asthma were able to decrease or eliminate their oral steroid when they began taking Qvar.
Qvar is not an asthma cure.
When and How to Take Qvar
Some general considerations for when and how to take Qvar include the following:
- Qvar comes in a metered-dose inhaler (called an "MDI").
- Qvar is taken twice a day every day. It is used to prevent asthma attacks, not to treat them.
- You should "test spray" a Qvar inhaler before your first use of it or if you have not used it for more than ten days. To test spray the inhaler, spray it into the air twice by pressing the top of the canister.
- Wait at least one minute in between inhalations.
- Rinse your mouth (without swallowing) after each Qvar dose in order to prevent thrush.
- It is important to learn exactly how to use your Qvar inhaler. It may be difficult at first and may require practice.
- The spray should be inhaled into the lungs, not sprayed onto the back of the throat and swallowed. To accomplish this, you will need to breathe in while spraying the inhaler.
- Most people put the mouthpiece of the inhaler directly into their mouths. However, many healthcare professionals now recommend placing the inhaler an inch or two away from the mouth. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way for you to use the inhaler.
- Each inhaler contains 100 sprays. Try to keep track of approximately how many sprays you have used in order to know when to replace the inhaler. Do not place the inhaler in water to see if it is empty (although it was recommended to do so in the past).
- For Qvar to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medication will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Qvar that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- The severity of your asthma
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your Qvar dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
(Click Qvar Dosage for more information about dosing for Qvar.)
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Qvar. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When Qvar side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of Qvar include, but are not limited to:
(Click Qvar Side Effects to learn about specific side effects of Qvar, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Qvar
At this time, there are no known drug interactions with Qvar.
Qvar: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Qvar if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
In studies, high doses of Qvar did not cause serious problems. However, if you happen to overdose on Qvar, seek medical attention immediately.
Qvar should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Keep Qvar and all medications out of the reach of children.
Qvar: What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Qvar as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of Qvar.
Qvar inhalers are available in two strengths:
- Qvar 40 mcg inhaler, containing 100 inhalations with 40 mcg per inhalation
- Qvar 80 mcg inhaler, containing 100 inhalations with 80 mcg per inhalation.
Is There a Generic Version of Qvar?
Currently, there is no generic Qvar licensed for sale.
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