Has anyone been switched from QVAR to Kelhale?

[Finn1510]

Hi,

I've been on QVAR100 for a few years now and it's one that has really worked well for me. I recently had an asthma review where the nurse said I was doing well and to keep going as I was. Today I received a letter saying they are switching my inhaler to the cheaper brand but am I within my rights to ask to stay on QVAR? I'm reluctant to change especially after finding a brand that works really well for me.

Thank you!

[twinkly29]

It's frustrating when they do that - although at least they're being honest about why! I'd be nervous too.

My suggestion would be to give it a go but to monitor your peak flow regularly (twice a day, before you take your inhaler). I assume you're working through a Qvar at the moment, in which case I'd do the peak flows from now and continue when you switch. This might help to show any change to your asthma with a different brand - if things are worse then you'll have evidence to back that up (as well as any symptoms you note down), equally if for some reason it's actually better there'll be evidence for that too.

Apologies if you already do this with your peak flow and I'm stating the obvious! But I'd give it a go and see - but prepared with peak flow measuring so I had evidence in case I needed to go back to the Qvar.

[Claire_ALUK Partner ALUK Asthma Nurse]

Hi Finn1510, Qvar and Kelhale are basically the same so you should be fine, but I agree with twinkly29 reply, monitor things and if you have any problems contact your surgery straight away. Do feel free to contact us on the helpline and discuss if you would like to 0300 2225800 M-F 930-445.