Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh).
Asthma attacks: Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) is not a "reliever" medication. If you start developing asthma symptoms, be sure to use your "reliever" medication for rapid relief of your asthma symptoms. It is very important that you have your "reliever" medication with you at all times. If you persistently use more of your "reliever" medication, contact your doctor.
Bone effects: Long-term use of corticosteroids such as beclomethasone may affect bone density and increase the risk of fracture. Your doctor will monitor your bone health while you are taking Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh).
Eye problems: If you have glaucoma or cataracts or are at risk of developing them, have your eyes checked by your doctor before starting long-term treatment with Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh). Have your eyes monitored at regular intervals while using Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh).
Growth effects: Long-term use of corticosteroids, including inhaled forms such as Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh), may slow the growth of children and adolescents. It is important to use the lowest effective dose for managing asthma symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Infections: Corticosteroids such as beclomethasone may worsen existing infections, mask the signs of infection, and increase the risk of new infections, especially for people who are also taking medications that suppress the immune system (e.g., Azathioprine, cancer medications, Cyclosporine). If you use Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) for several months or longer, your doctor will monitor you periodically for signs of infection. If you have not had chicken pox or Measles or have not been vaccinated against these infections, take special care to avoid exposure to them.
Medical conditions: If you have a Thyroid disorder or liver disease, discuss with your doctor how Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Oral hygiene: Adequate oral hygiene is very important in minimizing the overgrowth of microorganisms such as candidiasis (thrush). Proper oral hygiene includes rinsing your mouth with water after using the inhaler. Using a spacer device with the inhaler can greatly reduce how much medication stays in your mouth. Thrush infections, should they occur, may require treatment with appropriate antifungal therapy or the discontinuance of treatment with fluticasone, depending on the severity of the infections.
Steroid medication use: If you have taken or are still taking oral steroid medications over the last several months, consult with your doctor before using Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh). In times of stress or during a severe asthma attack, your doctor may want you to start your oral steroid medication again.
Stopping medication: Do not stop Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) abruptly, as this may cause your condition to get worse. When Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) is stopped, it should be stopped gradually as directed by your doctor.
Worsening of asthma: Increasing use of your bronchodilators (e.g., salbutamol) to control asthma symptoms is an indication that your asthma may be worsening. Sudden and progressive worsening in asthma control is potentially life-threatening, and consideration should be given to increasing the dose of fluticasone inhalation. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about how to properly monitor for symptoms of worsening asthma.
Wheezing: Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) may cause the airways to spasm immediately after using the inhaler. If this happens, use your rescue inhaler as soon as possible to relieve the symptoms, then call your doctor as soon as possible.
Pregnancy: Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking beclomethasone, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Qvar (Beclomethasone-inh) have not been established for children under 5 years or age.
