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Topical/Inhaled Glucocorticoid·Respiratory - Asthma & COPD
Maintenance treatment of asthma
Max Dose
800 mcg/day
Half-life
2-3 h
Extra-Fine
DEEP LUNG
Thrush
HIGH RISK
Overview
Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS). Formulated as extra-fine particles that penetrate deep into the small airways, providing excellent control of chronic asthma inflammation.
Maximum Dose
Max 800 mcg/day.
Clinical Focus
Must use a spacer and rinse/spit after every dose to prevent oral thrush and vocal cord myopathy.
Bottom Line
Beclometasone is a standard inhaled corticosteroid for asthma preventer therapy, but requires consistent use for effect and mouth rinsing to prevent oral candidiasis.
Brand Names
Qvar, Fostair (combo)
Oral Routes
Metered Dose Inhaler (50, 100 mcg/actuation).
Prescribing & PBS
Authority Required (PBS).
Primary
Maintenance treatment of asthma.
Clinical Place
First-line preventer. The extra-fine particle formulation (Qvar) means 100mcg of Beclometasone provides the same lung effect as 200mcg of older ICS formulations.