Is Fostair Inhaler a Strong Inhaler ?

Written by Jan Davies • Last Updated: 09-05-2024

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If you’re dealing with a respiratory condition such as asthma and COPD , you know how important it is to find an inhaler that works well for you. With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) standing as the third leading cause of death worldwide and asthma affecting around 300 million people globally with a higher prevalence in children, Fostair is a name that often comes up as a strong option. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Fostair and what makes it effective, aiming to help patients and caregivers make informed decisions.

How strong is Fostair inhaler?

Fostair is considered a moderate-to-strong maintenance inhaler because it combines a corticosteroid (beclometasone) with a long-acting bronchodilator (formoterol). This dual action allows it to both reduce airway inflammation and keep the airways open for long periods, making it suitable for patients who need more than a basic preventer inhaler.

The actual strength depends on the formulation used, which is determined by your doctor based on your symptoms and response to treatment.

Fostair inhaler dosage strength

Fostair is available in two strengths. Both contain the same amount of formoterol, while the dose of beclometasone differs. The appropriate strength depends on your symptoms, current level of asthma or COPD control, and response to previous treatment.

Fostair 200/6 contains twice as much beclometasone per puff as Fostair 100/6, but it is not automatically the better option. Your healthcare provider will aim to prescribe the lowest effective strength that keeps your symptoms under control while minimising the risk of side effects.

Is Fostair a Strong Inhaler?

Is Fostair 200/6 a Strong Inhaler ?

Fostair 200/6 is a kind of inhaler that combines two key ingredients: beclometasone and formoterol. Each puff delivers 200 micrograms of beclometasone, which helps reduce swelling in your airways, and 6 micrograms of formoterol, which helps to keep your airways open for a longer time.

This combination makes Fostair 200/6 a strong choice, especially for people who need something more powerful to manage their symptoms. It’s designed to be used regularly to keep symptoms at bay and can also be used when you need quick relief from sudden breathing problems.

Fostair 200/6 is particularly good for those who have more serious symptoms and need a higher level of control over their asthma or COPD. While it’s a powerful tool in managing these conditions, it’s always important to use it exactly as your doctor prescribes. If you’re considering Fostair or any other medication, talk to your healthcare provider to see if it’s right for you.

Is Fostair 100/6 a Strong Inhaler ?

Fostair 100/6 is another type of inhaler that’s part of the Fostair family, and it’s also designed to help people with breathing problems due to asthma or COPD. It has the same two ingredients as the 200/6 version, but in different amounts. Each puff from the Fostair 100/6 inhaler gives you 100 micrograms of beclometasone to reduce inflammation and 6 micrograms of formoterol to relax the muscles in your airways and make it easier to breathe.

Even though Fostair 100/6 has a lower dose of beclometasone compared to the 200/6 version, it still packs a punch and can be a strong option for treating respiratory conditions. It’s particularly helpful for individuals who need a regular maintenance treatment to keep their asthma or COPD symptoms under control, and it can also offer quick relief when breathing suddenly becomes difficult.

Fostair 100/6 might be the right choice if you need a medication that’s strong enough to help with your symptoms but may not require as high a dose of steroids as the 200/6 version. As with any medication, it’s important to use Fostair 100/6 under the guidance of your doctor to make sure it’s the best fit for your health needs. Did you know that: Asthma is often intertwined with allergies, recognizing this connection is crucial for effective management. If you suffer from allergies and asthma, visit our allergy treatments page for a wide range of medications.

Is Fostair a Steroid Inhaler?

Yes. Fostair contains beclometasone, an inhaled corticosteroid that reduces inflammation and sensitivity in the airways. It also contains formoterol, a long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles surrounding the airways.

This means Fostair is more accurately described as a combination inhaler rather than only a steroid inhaler. It should be used regularly as prescribed, even when symptoms are well controlled. Some Fostair 100/6 treatment plans also allow the inhaler to be used for symptom relief, but only when this has been specifically prescribed as MART therapy.

How to Use Fostair Inhaler Correctly

The correct technique depends on whether you use a pressurised Fostair inhaler or a Fostair NEXThaler. Always follow the instructions supplied with your exact device and ask a pharmacist, doctor or asthma nurse to check your technique.

For a pressurised inhaler:

1. Remove the cap and check the mouthpiece.
2. Shake the inhaler well.
3. Breathe out fully, away from the device.
4. Seal your lips around the mouthpiece.
5. Begin breathing in slowly and press the canister once.
6. Continue inhaling deeply, then hold your breath for up to 10 seconds.
7. Breathe out slowly.

Fostair NEXThaler is breath-actuated and requires a different inhalation technique. It does not need to be shaken or used with a spacer. After either device, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out to reduce the risk of oral thrush.

Can Fostair Be Used as Both a Preventer and Reliever?

Fostair 100/6 may be prescribed as part of a maintenance and reliever therapy (MART) plan. Under this type of plan, the same inhaler is used every day for maintenance and, when needed, for symptom relief.

However, not every patient using Fostair follows a MART plan, and Fostair 200/6 is generally intended for maintenance treatment rather than as-needed relief. Never change how frequently you use the inhaler unless instructed by your doctor or asthma nurse.

Fostair Inhaler Side Effects

Like all medicines, Fostair may cause side effects, although many people experience few or none. Most are mild and manageable, especially when the inhaler is used correctly. The table below summarises the most common side effects and what you can do to reduce the risk of developing them. 

Seek urgent medical help if breathing becomes suddenly worse after using the inhaler, or if you experience severe swelling, difficulty breathing or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Does Fostair Inhaler Cause Weight Gain ?

Weight gain can indeed be a concern for individuals on certain steroid medications, particularly oral corticosteroids. However, Fostair , used as an inhaler for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), does not usually list weight gain as a common side effect.

The beclometasone in Fostair is a corticosteroid, but because it is inhaled, the systemic effects (effects on the entire body) are much less compared to oral steroids. The majority of the medication works locally in the lungs to reduce inflammation and to help control symptoms.

For those concerned about weight gain or looking to manage their weight, it’s important to focus on a balanced diet and regular physical activity. If you are interested in additional support for weight loss, you might consider visiting our weight loss treatment section.

Where Can You Buy Fostair Inhaler ?

If you’re looking to purchase a Fostair inhaler, here at Meds for Less, a online pharmacy, we are your trusted source. We understand the importance of reliable, convenient access to your respiratory medications, and that’s why we stock both dosages of the Fostair inhaler – the Fostair 100/6 for those with milder symptoms and the Fostair 200/6 for patients in need of a stronger dose. Our easy-to-navigate website and secure purchasing process ensure that your medication needs are met with the utmost care and confidentiality. To learn about Fostair inhaler price visit our Fostair product page.