Hi Sharon. I understand your fears, but I am of a similar mindset as JoAnn. The food we eat and the air we breathe are dangerous for us as well. The big problem with all the black box warnings is not the corticosteroid (which is what QVAR is), but

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Hi Sharon. I understand your fears, but I am of a similar mindset as JoAnn. The food we eat and the air we breathe are dangerous for us as well. The big problem with all the black box warnings is not the corticosteroid (which is what QVAR is), but the LABA. The corticosteroid is a good medicine which will help reduce the swelling inside your lungs. That swelling is a major issue with controlling asthma. I think it is well worth the small amount of risk to reap the huge possible benefits.Madeline To: asthma Sent: Monday, December 5, 2011 11:37 AM Subject: Re: AM TAKING 5MG. PRED. AND WAS JUST TOLD TO TAKE QVAR

Sharon,

Can't speak to the QVAR, but with diminished lung capacity, it might be worth trying it to see if it helps you. Aspirin can kill you too, so some of the dire warnings do make it less appealing to try something new. Drug companies have to warn you of the worst case scenario (death) and the most common reactions (like dry mouth or altered taste for example.)

Whatever you decide, don't forget to rinse your mouth thoroughly after using any inhaler because of the risk of damage to your upper teeth from acidic preservatives. The steroid components can also trigger an oral yeast infection, especially in patients like us with dry mouth issues.

Hugs, JoAnn