Flonase vs Qvar

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Introduction

For patients dealing with persistent allergies or asthma, a class of drugs known as corticosteroids can provide significant relief by reducing inflammation in the airways. Flonase and Qvar are two such medications often prescribed for these conditions. Both work by suppressing the immune system's response, thereby decreasing swelling and irritation in the nasal passages or lungs. Flonase is a type of corticosteroid known as fluticasone propionate that primarily helps with nasal symptoms associated with rhinitis such as sneezing, congestion, or runny nose. On the other hand, Qvar contains beclomethasone dipropionate - another form of corticosteroid - but it is an inhaler used to control and prevent symptoms caused by asthma like wheezing and shortness of breath.

What is Flonase?

Fluticasone (the generic name for Flonase) is a type of corticosteroid that helps reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. It was first approved by the FDA in 1994. Flonase works by blocking the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, effectively "taming" an overactive immune response and providing relief from allergy symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, and itching of the nose. On the other hand, beclomethasone dipropionate (Qvar) is another form of corticosteroid but it's used to prevent and control symptoms caused by asthma like wheezing and shortness of breath. Qvar does this by reducing swelling and irritation in airways to allow easier breathing. While both are steroids meant to reduce inflammation, their effects target different areas causing fewer side effects than systemic oral steroids.

What conditions is Flonase approved to treat?

Flonase and Qvar are both approved for the treatment of different respiratory conditions:

Flonase is used to alleviate symptoms associated with allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, runny or itchy nose.
Qvar is a controller medication used daily to help prevent asthma attacks by reducing inflammation in the lungs. It's not intended for immediate relief of breathing problems.

How does Flonase help with these illnesses?

Flonase helps to manage allergies by reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. It does this by inhibiting a variety of cells and mediators involved in inflammation such as leukocytes and cytokines, so their levels can be maintained lower for longer periods of time. These inflammatory agents play an important role in allergic reactions, bodily defense responses, redness, swelling and other symptoms associated with inflammation. When individuals have allergies, they tend to have relatively higher levels of these inflammatory substances due to immune response against allergens. Therefore, Flonase works by decreasing these substances' activity it limits the negative effects of allergies and helps patients manage their condition making breathing easier.

On the other hand, Qvar is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma through its active ingredient Beclomethasone which reduces swelling/inflammation in the airways. Though both medications are types of corticosteroids that reduce inflammation; Flonase is more directed towards nasal allergy relief while Qvar targets lung related issues like asthma.

What is Qvar?

Qvar, also known as beclomethasone, is a corticosteroid inhaler used to prevent asthma attacks. It works by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways of the lungs. Unlike Flonase, which is primarily used for relieving nasal allergy symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing, Qvar focuses on enhancing lung function and preventing breathing difficulties caused by asthma. This medicine was first approved by the FDA in 2000. As Qvar doesn't have any antihistamine properties like Flonase does, it doesn't help with other allergy symptoms outside of those associated with asthma. However, its direct action on lung inflammation makes it effective for controlling chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). The common side effects of Qvar are different from that of Flonase; they can include throat irritation or dry mouth rather than potential sedation caused by some antihistamines.

What conditions is Qvar approved to treat?

Qvar, a corticosteroid inhaler, is formally approved for the treatment of:

Asthma as a preventive therapy
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

It's important to note that Qvar doesn't provide immediate relief in case of an asthma attack. Instead, it works over time by reducing inflammation and swelling in the airways to prevent future asthmatic episodes.

How does Qvar help with these illnesses?

Beclomethasone, which is the active ingredient in Qvar, is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and swelling of the airways. It works by suppressing immune responses and reducing production of substances that trigger allergic reactions. Its role in maintaining open airways makes it an important part of managing asthma symptoms. Flonase, on the other hand, also contains a corticosteroid (fluticasone) but is primarily used as a nasal spray for relieving allergy symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing and itching of the nose. While both medications are effective in their respective uses, Qvar's action specifically targets bronchial inflammation making it potentially more beneficial for individuals with persistent asthma. Since it does not significantly affect histamine levels like some antihistamines do (such as desloratadine), it may be prescribed when a patient does not respond well to typical over-the-counter allergy medications or can even be combined with them for increased effectiveness.

How effective are both Flonase and Qvar?

Both fluticasone propionate (Flonase) and beclomethasone dipropionate (Qvar) are corticosteroid medications used to control symptoms associated with asthma or allergic rhinitis, and both were approved by the FDA within a few years of each other in the 1990s. These drugs work by reducing inflammation in the airways, but their mechanisms of action differ slightly which can affect prescribing choices.

In direct comparisons between Flonase and Qvar for treating seasonal allergies, both drugs demonstrated similar effectiveness at relieving nasal allergy symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, itching or runny nose. However, Qvar is specifically indicated for use in asthma management while Flonase is more commonly prescribed for managing hay fever symptoms.

A review published in Respiratory Medicine found that treatment with Qvar led to significant improvements in lung function among patients with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma compared to placebo. The same study reported that Qvar was well-tolerated over long-term use with fewer side effects than older forms of inhalable corticosteroids. In contrast, a meta-analysis published in Clinical Therapeutics showed that fluticasone propionate significantly improves symptom scores and quality-of-life measures compared to placebo when used as a first-line therapy for perennial allergic rhinitis.

Despite these differences, both drugs have been shown to be safe and effective treatments within their respective indications. Their choice often depends on individual patient factors including specific diagnosis (asthma vs allergic rhinitis), co-existing health conditions or potential drug interactions.

abstract image of a researcher studying a bottle of drug.

At what dose is Flonase typically prescribed?

Inhaled doses of Flonase for adults and children aged 4 years and above range from 1-2 sprays in each nostril per day. Studies have shown that one spray in each nostril per day is usually sufficient to treat symptoms of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis. Children under 4 years should not use this medication unless directed by a doctor. For Qvar, the recommended starting dose for adults and adolescents (12 years or older) ranges from 40–160 mcg twice daily depending on the severity of asthma. Children aged between 5-11 years may start with a lower dose ranging from 20–80 mcg twice daily. In both cases, dosage can be adjusted based on individual response but should not exceed the maximum recommended dose: which is two sprays of Flonase in each nostril per day or for Qvar, it's not more than 320 mcg twice daily for patients aged ≥15; or no more than160 mcg twice daily for children ages <15.

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At what dose is Qvar typically prescribed?

Qvar treatment usually begins with a dosage of 40-80 mcg/day, divided into two doses, which should be taken approximately 12 hours apart. The dose can then be increased up to a maximum of 320 mcg/day for adults and teenagers, or up to 160 mcg/day for children aged five years and older. This is divided into two doses that are spaced about 12 hours apart. If there's no response to the initial Qvar treatment after a few weeks, your doctor may consider increasing the dosage but it should not exceed the recommended maximum daily dose.

What are the most common side effects for Flonase?

Some of the common side effects associated with Flonase and Qvar include:

Headache
Unpleasant taste or smell
Nasal irritation or burning
Nausea
Coughing, throat irritation, hoarseness
Shortness of breath (more commonly reported in Qvar)
Swelling of face, lips, eyelids, mouth (rare but may occur especially after long-term use)
Changes in vision (blurred vision or other vision changes)
Increased susceptibility to infections due to suppressed immune response.

It's important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects and they often subside as your body adjusts to the medication. Always speak to a healthcare provider for advice tailored specifically for you.

abstract image of a patient experiencing side effect

Are there any potential serious side effects for Flonase?

When comparing Flonase to Qvar, it's important to be aware of the potential side effects that can occur. Although these medications are typically well-tolerated, some individuals may experience:

Signs of allergic reactions such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling in your face or throat
Changes in vision: blurred vision or seeing halos around lights
Heart-related symptoms: fast or pounding heartbeats, chest fluttering, shortness of breath and sudden dizziness
Low potassium levels - muscle weakness, leg cramps, irregular heartbeat
Hormone imbalance - unusual tiredness, weight gain/loss; growth reduction (in children); thinning skin; bone pain; menstrual changes;
Infections due to weakened immune system: fever, chills persistent sore throat/cough /nosebleed.

These are not all possible side effects for either medication so if you notice other concerning symptoms after starting treatment with Flonase or Qvar contact your healthcare professional immediately.

What are the most common side effects for Qvar?

Qvar, a type of inhaled corticosteroid, can cause various side effects. These may include:

Sore throat and hoarseness
Oral thrush (fungal infection in the mouth)
Headache
Changes in taste or smell
Cough
Difficulty breathing Remember that it's vital to rinse your mouth with water after using Qvar to prevent oral thrush. If you experience persistent symptoms like fever, chills, wheezing, white patches on lips or inside the mouth - it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention as these might indicate serious side effects.

Are there any potential serious side effects for Qvar?

Although Qvar is generally well-tolerated, it can cause some serious side effects in rare instances. If you notice any of the following symptoms after using Qvar, seek medical attention immediately:

Signs of allergic reaction: hives, itching or skin rashes
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Swelling in your face, lips, tongue or throat
Eye pain, blurred vision
Irregular heartbeat
Symptoms related to adrenal insufficiency such as fatigue; lack of energy; loss of appetite; weight loss; abdominal pain; nausea and vomiting
Changes in mood (feeling unusually sad or irritable)
Trouble sleeping

Remember that it's important not to ignore these symptoms if they occur while using Qvar. Always consult with healthcare professionals for advice tailored towards individual needs.

Contraindications for Flonase and Qvar?

Both Flonase and Qvar, like most corticosteroid medications, can cause a range of side effects. If you notice worsening symptoms such as increased difficulty breathing, swelling in your face or throat, skin rashes or hives, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.

Neither Flonase nor Qvar should be taken if you are using or have recently finished a course of other steroid medication (including oral steroids and injectable steroids). Always inform your physician about any medications you are currently taking; transitioning from one type of steroid to another can require careful monitoring by a healthcare professional to avoid complications.

Moreover, using either Flonase or Qvar could potentially lead to fungal infections in the mouth or throat. To help prevent this common adverse effect associated with inhaling corticosteroids, rinse your mouth thoroughly after each use without swallowing the water.

Lastly, long-term use of these types of drugs may weaken the immune system making it easier for you to get an infection. It is important that while taking these medications that proper hygiene practices are followed and exposure to those who are sick is minimized.

How much do Flonase and Qvar cost?

For the brand-name versions of these drugs:

The price for a 16 g bottle of Flonase (fluticasone propionate), which contains approximately 120 sprays, averages around $22. This works out to about $0.18 per day if using two sprays in each nostril daily.
The price for an inhaler of Qvar (beclomethasone dipropionate) containing 100 doses is about $200, working out to approximately $2/day.

Thus, if you are required to use the maximum dose recommended for Qvar (i.e., two puffs twice daily), then branded Flonase is less expensive on a per-day treatment basis. Please note that cost should not be a primary consideration in determining which of these drugs is right for you.

For the generic versions:

Generic fluticasone propionate nasal spray can be found at prices ranging from $10-$20 per bottle depending on the retailer and location, making it significantly cheaper than its brand-name counterpart.
Beclomethasone dipropionate inhalers don't have as significant cost reductions with their generic counterparts; however, they still offer some savings compared to the branded version with prices often falling below $180 for similar quantities.

Popularity of Flonase and Qvar

Fluticasone, available as a generic medication and under brand names such as Flonase, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 6.2 million people in the US in 2020. It is used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis including itchy or runny noses and sneezing. As an intranasal corticosteroid spray, fluticasone accounted for just over 15% of prescriptions in this category.

On the other hand, beclomethasone dipropionate (Qvar) has been typically used for long-term treatment of asthma where regular bronchodilator therapy is inadequate or not possible due to side effects. In 2020, Qvar was prescribed approximately five times less frequently than Flonase with its user base numbering around 1.3 million people in the USA that year - just below 5% of inhaler prescriptions overall.

The prevalence patterns differ between these two; while Flonase usage has remained steady over the past decade, there's been a slight decrease for Qvar since newer alternatives entered onto the market around mid-2010s.

Conclusion

Both Flonase (fluticasone propionate) and Qvar (beclomethasone dipropionate) have been used extensively in patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma, respectively. They are backed by numerous clinical studies that demonstrate their effectiveness compared to placebo treatments. These drugs may be used together under medical supervision but can also work independently depending on the patient's symptoms.

The distinct mechanisms of action for these two medications lead to different prescription scenarios: Flonase is primarily a nasal spray aimed at reducing inflammation caused by allergies directly in the nose, while Qvar is an inhaler designed to control and prevent asthma symptoms such as shortness of breath or wheezing.

Flonase can often be purchased over-the-counter, providing convenient access without needing a prescription. Conversely, Qvar typically requires a doctor's prescription due to its use specifically for managing chronic conditions like asthma.

Both Flonase and Qvar do require some time before noticeable effects occur; this adjustment period varies depending upon individual responses.

The side effect profiles for both drugs are similar with generally well-tolerated reactions. However, regular monitoring of symptoms is essential when starting either treatment; immediate medical help should be sought if breathing difficulties worsen or other severe side effects arise.