QVAR (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA) Inhalation Aerosol
Asthma and Airway Inflammation

Asthma and Airway Inflammation

Inflammation is a key part of what causes asthma symptoms. Inflammation makes the airways in the lungs more sensitive to asthma triggers like pollen, smoke, and pet dander. Even when people with asthma don't have symptoms, their airways may still be inflamed.1

QVAR® is a type of long-term control medication for asthma called an inhaled corticosteroid (or ICS). QVAR® works by reducing inflammation. QVAR® can help prevent asthma symptoms and improve lung function2-4 for many people with asthma.

Other medicines that are used to treat asthma include short-acting beta agonists (SABAs), which are typically used in quick-relief asthma inhalers, and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), which are most often prescribed for daily use. SABAs and LABAs both work by relaxing the muscles around airways, which makes it easier to breathe.
QVAR® (beclomethasone dipropionate HFA) Inhalation Aerosol is indicated in the maintenance treatment of asthma as prophylactic therapy in patients 5 years of age or older. QVAR® is also indicated for asthma patients who require systemic corticosteroid administration, where adding QVAR® may reduce or eliminate the need for systemic corticosteroids.

Important Safety Information


QVAR® does not replace fast-acting (rescue) inhalers for sudden symptoms.

CAUTION: If you are switching from an oral corticosteroid to QVAR®, follow your doctor's instructions to avoid health risks when you stop using oral corticosteroids (See WARNINGS, Prescribing Information).

Inhaled corticosteroids may cause a reduction in growth rate. The long-term effect on final adult growth is unknown.

In clinical studies, common side effects included headache and pharyngitis.

Do not stop taking QVAR® abruptly without talking to your doctor.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

References
  1. NHLBI Expert Panel Report 3 (EPR3): Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/asthma/asthgdln.htm. Accessed April 20, 2010.
  2. Thongngarm T, Silkoff PE, Kossack WS, Nelson HS. Hydrofluoroalkane-134A beclomethasone or chlorofluorocarbon fluticasone: effect on small airways in poorly controlled asthma. J Asthma. 2005;42(4):257-263.
  3. Busse WW, Brazinsky S, Jacobson K, et al. Efficacy response of inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate in asthma is proportional to dose and is improved by formulation with a new propellant. J. Allergy Clin Immunol. 1999;104(6):1215-1222.
  4. Data on file. Teva Respiratory, LLC; 2010.
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