Learn about common and serious Qvar RediHaler side effects, who's at higher risk, how to manage them, and when to call your doctor right away.
If you've been prescribed Qvar RediHaler (Beclomethasone Dipropionate) for asthma, you're probably wondering what side effects to expect. Like all medications, Qvar can cause side effects — but most are mild and manageable.
This guide covers the most common side effects, the serious ones to watch for, and practical tips for reducing your risk. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident about using your inhaler every day.
Qvar is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) used as a daily maintenance treatment for asthma in patients ages 4 and older. It works by reducing inflammation in the airways over time, making it easier to breathe and preventing asthma attacks. It is not a rescue inhaler — it won't help during a sudden asthma attack.
For a complete overview, see our guide on what Qvar is, its uses, and dosage.
Most people who take Qvar tolerate it well. The side effects listed below are the most frequently reported. They're usually mild and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
This is the most well-known side effect of inhaled corticosteroids. Oral thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth and throat that can cause white patches, soreness, and difficulty swallowing. It occurs in up to 7% of Qvar users.
How to prevent it: Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out after every use. Do not swallow the rinse water. This simple step dramatically reduces your risk.
Some users report cold-like symptoms, including a runny nose, sore throat, or congestion. This happens in up to 4% of patients. It's usually mild and resolves on its own.
Headaches are a commonly reported side effect. They're typically mild and go away within the first few weeks of treatment.
If any of these side effects become persistent or bothersome, talk to your doctor. They may adjust your dose or suggest ways to manage symptoms.
Serious side effects from Qvar are rare, but they do exist. If you experience any of the following, contact your doctor immediately — or call 911 if the situation feels urgent.
Signs include hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. This requires immediate medical attention. Stop using the inhaler and call 911.
In rare cases, Qvar can cause your airways to suddenly tighten instead of relax right after you use it. If you experience increased wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath immediately after inhaling, stop using Qvar and use your rescue inhaler. Contact your doctor before using Qvar again.
Long-term use of high-dose inhaled corticosteroids can affect your body's ability to produce cortisol naturally. Symptoms of adrenal insufficiency include fatigue, weakness, nausea, and low blood pressure. This is more of a concern with higher doses used over extended periods.
Corticosteroids can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Avoid close contact with people who have chickenpox or measles if you haven't been vaccinated. Tell your doctor if you're exposed to these illnesses while taking Qvar.
Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids has been linked to reduced bone mineral density. Your doctor may recommend calcium and vitamin D supplements or periodic bone density scans if you're on Qvar for an extended period.
Prolonged use of corticosteroids — including inhaled forms — may increase the risk of glaucoma and cataracts. Report any changes in vision to your doctor promptly.
Qvar is approved for children ages 4 and older. However, long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids can slow growth in children. Studies suggest the effect is small (about 1 cm in the first year), and most children eventually reach their expected adult height. Your pediatrician should monitor your child's growth regularly.
Qvar is classified as Pregnancy Category C, meaning animal studies have shown some risk but there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. Uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy also carries risks, so stopping your inhaler without medical guidance is not recommended.
Elderly patients should start at the lowest effective dose. They may be more susceptible to bone density loss and should discuss monitoring strategies with their doctor.
Here are practical steps to reduce the chance of side effects:
Call your doctor if you experience:
Call 911 or go to the ER if you have:
Most people use Qvar RediHaler without any significant problems. The most common side effect — oral thrush — is largely preventable by rinsing your mouth after each use. Serious side effects are rare, especially at standard doses.
The benefits of controlling your asthma with a daily maintenance inhaler typically outweigh the risks of side effects. But stay informed, stay in touch with your doctor, and don't hesitate to speak up if something doesn't feel right.
If cost is a concern that's keeping you from taking your medication consistently, check out our guide on how to save money on Qvar. And if you're having trouble finding it in stock, Medfinder can help you locate a pharmacy near you that has it available.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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