• Alvesco is a type of inhaler primarily used to treat asthma 
• It is prescribed for adults and children aged over 12
• Alvesco contains the active ingredient ciclesonide, a type of corticosteroid medication
• Alvesco should be taken every day to prevent the symptoms of asthma occurring, and to help prevent asthma attacks
• Alvesco is sometimes prescribed for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

Alvesco contains an inhaled steroid, or more specifically a corticosteroid, called ciclesonide. Corticosteroids such as ciclesonide dampen down the swelling in the airways by minimising the activity of inflammatory cells including mast cells and white blood cells. Once the swelling is minimised, it is easier to draw air into the lungs. This makes your breathing feel easier and reduces any associated wheezing. 

The active ingredient within Alvesco has a small particle size that is designed to get into the small airways of the lungs, leading to a reduction in asthma symptoms.

Unlike a reliever inhaler, preventer inhalers like Alvesco can take several days to alleviate your symptoms. It can take up to four weeks before you notice the full benefit of taking Alvesco. You may also need a reliever inhaler to treat any flare ups of asthma that occur.

It is important to continue taking Alvesco as prescribed, as stopping it increases the risk of your asthma symptoms returning.

Unlike a reliever inhaler which is only taken when your symptoms suddenly worsen, you should take Alvesco every day. Many people will take Alvesco once a day, although this may need to be increased to twice daily in severe asthma.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions will help to ensure you get the full dose of ciclesonide.

1. Remove the cover from the mouthpiece. Unlike other inhalers, do not shake Alvesco prior to use.
2. Hold the inhaler upright with your thumb at the bottom, and your forefinger and middle finger on top of the canister, pointing the mouthpiece towards you. 
3. Breathe out fully and then place the mouthpiece into your mouth with your tongue below the inhaler and your lips closed around it. 
4. While breathing in deeply and slowly, press down on the centre of the canister until the canister stops moving inside the external actuator. 
5. When you have finished breathing in, hold your breath for 10 seconds. Note: you may hear a soft click inside the inhaler from the indicator at this time.
6. Remove the inhaler from your mouth and then breathe out slowly.
7. Rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.
8. Replace the mouthpiece cover after use to keep your inhaler clean.

Alvesco is available in two strengths, 80 micrograms per puff or 160 micrograms per puff. Your prescriber will ensure you have the right strength inhaler for your symptoms. 

The usual dose for adults is 160 micrograms (one puff of the higher strength inhaler) once a day. Those with severe asthma may need to take the inhaler twice a day.

Your dose may be reduced to 80 micrograms if asthma control is maintained. 

Make sure you check the label to ensure you take the dose as prescribed for you.

Like all medications, Alvesco can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Headache
• Oral thrush (a fungal infection of the mouth)
• Pneumonia (more common in patients using Alvesco for COPD than asthma)
• Alteration in taste
• Changes to the voice
• Cushing’s syndrome (an increase in cortisol in the body, often related to taking steroid medications).

If you experience these symptoms or complications, you should speak to your doctor for further advice.

If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Alvesco may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your doctor if you:

• Have severe liver disease
• Have, or have ever had, tuberculosis
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding (Alvesco is often still safe to use in all of these circumstances as it is important that your asthma is well controlled).

Some medications can interact with Alvesco. You may be advised that Alvesco will not suit you if you already take:

• Another inhaler
• Steroids (inhaled or tablet form).

Because Alvesco may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Alvesco will not interact with them. 

Once prescribed, Alvesco will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription, allowing you to pick the medication up at your convenience.

Can I buy Alvesco online?

You can safely buy Alvesco online at EU Meds. You will first need to have an online consultation with a pharmacist independent prescriber before your order will be supplied. The online consultation will ensure that Alvesco is the right medication for your medical condition.

Do I need a prescription for Alvesco?

Yes, in order to purchase Alvesco you will need a valid prescription. Please note, all requests for supply of prescription medications are subject to an online clinical consultation and the decision to prescribe will be made by a doctor.