I have switched from Qvar to Fostair. Do I have to experience side effects even though I have used other inhalers in the past?

[Scooby1020]

Switched to Fostair from Qvar

[twinkly29]

The inhalers contain the same steroid so that element should continue (if you've literally gone from Qvar to Fostair; it Qvar was a previous inhaler with a different one between then yes it starts again - having had something way back is irrelevant).

But Fostair contains a LABA (long-acting bronchodilator) and it's that that can cause side effects. However, in most people they are mild and diminish over time. The inhaler can take 8 weeks to kick in properly and it's important to try and get to this point as any side effects (and not everyone gets them) should go. As you're continuing the same steroid yours shouldn't really take that long to kick in though which is handy. The LABA bit kicks in more quickly.

[Scooby1020 in reply to twinkly29]

Thanks,I now see that its the addition of a LABA that will cause any side effects - something I haven't used before.

I have only been using it for 3 days, so the stomach ache (if it is caused by Fostair) will hopefully go soon.

My breathing is fluctuating a bit at the moment, but this maybe due to still using Salbutamol, which the Asthma Nurse said I should still use, but reduce slowly over the next few days.

I take the Salbutamol before exercise (my trigger), so if I now reduce from 2 puffs, to 1 puff (or maybe 0 puffs), my breathing whilst power walking will hopefully stabilise.

I have noticed a few comments that it may take up to 8 weeks to work properly (my nurse said 10 to 14 days).

Thanks again

😀👍

[twinkly29 in reply to Scooby1020]

Your nurse sounds good! 10-14 days is more likely as it's only the LABA for your body to get used to as it already knows the steroid. Fingers crossed anyway!