From the Guidelines
Flovent (fluticasone propionate) is a good alternative to Qvar (beclomethasone dipropionate) Redihaler HFA for asthma management, as it is a highly effective inhaled corticosteroid that reduces airway inflammation and prevents asthma symptoms. According to the expert panel report 3 (EPR-3) guidelines for the diagnosis and management of asthma 1, inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) are the most consistently effective long-term control medication for persistent asthma. Flovent HFA is typically dosed at 88-220 mcg twice daily, depending on asthma severity.
When switching from Qvar to another inhaled corticosteroid, it's essential to understand that dosing equivalencies vary - for example, 40 mcg of Qvar is roughly equivalent to 88 mcg of Flovent. Patients should continue their prescribed regimen of twice-daily use and proper inhaler technique remains crucial for effectiveness. Side effects are similar across these medications and may include oral thrush, hoarseness, and throat irritation, which can be minimized by rinsing the mouth after use.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine in 2020 1 suggests that achieving optimal asthma control requires a progressive increase in inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting b2 agonist therapy to a maintenance inhaled corticosteroid dose that causes the same magnitude of systemic side effects as oral prednisone at a 5-mg daily dose. However, this study does not change the fact that Flovent (fluticasone propionate) is a suitable alternative to Qvar (beclomethasone dipropionate) Redihaler HFA, and any medication switch should be done under medical supervision to ensure appropriate dosing and continued asthma control.
Some key points to consider when switching to Flovent or other inhaled corticosteroids include:
- Proper inhaler technique to ensure effective medication delivery
- Monitoring for side effects such as oral thrush, hoarseness, and throat irritation
- Adjusting dosing as needed to achieve optimal asthma control
- Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider to assess asthma control and adjust treatment as needed.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Alternatives to Qvar Redihaler HFA
If your insurance no longer covers Qvar Redihaler HFA, there are alternative options for asthma management.
- Fluticasone propionate: Studies have shown that fluticasone propionate can be an effective alternative to beclomethasone dipropionate (Qvar) 2, 3, 4.
- Fluticasone-salmeterol combination: A combination of fluticasone propionate and salmeterol (a long-acting beta2-agonist) has been shown to be effective in improving bronchoprotection, bronchodilatation, and clinical control in patients with asthma 2.
- Other inhaled corticosteroids: Other inhaled corticosteroids, such as beclomethasone dipropionate extrafine aerosol, may also be considered as alternatives to Qvar Redihaler HFA 5.
Key Considerations
When considering alternative treatments, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs. Factors to consider include:
- Efficacy: How well does the alternative treatment control asthma symptoms?
- Safety: What are the potential side effects of the alternative treatment?
- Dosage: What is the recommended dosage of the alternative treatment, and how does it compare to Qvar Redihaler HFA?
- Insurance coverage: Is the alternative treatment covered by your insurance plan?
Comparison of Qvar and Alternative Treatments
Studies have compared the efficacy and safety of Qvar Redihaler HFA with other inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone propionate 3, 4. These studies have shown that fluticasone propionate can be an effective alternative to Qvar Redihaler HFA, with similar or improved efficacy and safety profiles. Additionally, a study comparing the respiratory tract deposition of HFA-beclomethasone (Qvar) and HFA-fluticasone found that Qvar had increased lung deposition and decreased oropharynx deposition compared to fluticasone propionate 6.