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Alvesco
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Alvesco is a preventative inhaler containing the active ingredient ciclesonide which is prescribed to manage and prevent symptoms of bronchial asthma in adult patients. By delivering a corticosteroid directly to the lungs, it helps reduce airway inflammation and sensitivity to help you breathe more easily over time.
- Effective preventative treatment for adult bronchial asthma
- Contains the active corticosteroid ingredient ciclesonide
- Simple once-daily or twice-daily inhalation regimen
- Discreet delivery from a UK-registered pharmacy
More information
"Alvesco is a prophylactic treatment typically prescribed for the long term management of persistent asthma in adults. It is important to remember that as a preventer inhaler, ciclesonide is designed for regular daily use to maintain lung health rather than for the immediate relief of acute asthma attacks." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)
You can buy Alvesco online through Mail my Meds by completing a short clinical consultation which is reviewed by a UK registered prescriber to ensure the treatment is suitable for your needs. Once approved, your prescription is dispensed and shipped directly from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in discreet packaging to your chosen address.
The price of Alvesco varies depending on whether you are fulfilling a private prescription or an NHS prescription through our platform. While private costs are competitive and reflect the service of an online pharmacy, NHS prescriptions are charged at the standard flat rate unless you are eligible for an exemption.
We offer a range of tracked delivery services across the UK to ensure your asthma medication reaches you safely and promptly. Patients can choose from standard or expedited shipping methods at the checkout stage once their consultation has been successfully approved by our medical team.
Alvesco is a solution aerosol inhaler used for the preventative treatment of chronic asthma in adults and is not intended for use as a rescue medication. It belongs to a group of medicines called glucocorticoids which work by targeting inflammation within the small airways of the respiratory system.
The active ingredient in Alvesco is ciclesonide, a prodrug that is converted into its active form within the lungs to minimise systemic side effects. This targeted approach ensures that the potent anti-inflammatory action is concentrated where it is needed most to control asthma symptoms.
Many users report that Alvesco is convenient due to its once daily dosing potential and the low incidence of local side effects like oral thrush. Individual experiences vary, but clinical data suggests high levels of patient adherence when moving from traditional inhaled corticosteroids to ciclesonide.
The Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) is included in every box of Alvesco and provides essential details regarding ingredients, usage and safety. You should read this document thoroughly before starting your treatment to understand the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Alvesco works by reducing the swelling and irritation in the walls of the small air passages in the lungs which helps prevent breathing problems. Because ciclesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid, it acts as a preventative measure that builds up protection over time rather than providing an instant bronchodilator effect.
To use the Alvesco inhaler, you must remove the mouthpiece cover, breathe out deeply, place the inhaler in your mouth and press down once while breathing in slowly. Hold your breath for about ten seconds before exhaling slowly to ensure the medicine reaches deep into the lungs.
The standard dosage for Alvesco is typically one inhalation once a day, although some patients may be prescribed a higher dose or twice daily applications. Your prescriber will determine the correct dose based on the severity of your asthma and your previous treatment history.
Common side effects of Alvesco may include hoarseness, a bad taste in the mouth or a mild cough immediately after inhalation. While less common than with some other steroid inhalers, some patients may experience:
- Fungal infections in the mouth (thrush)
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Palpitations
You should inform your prescriber if you have ever been treated for pulmonary tuberculosis or if you have any fungal, viral or bacterial infections. It is vital to continue using Alvesco even when you feel well, and you should not stop the medication abruptly without medical advice.
Alvesco is often compared to other inhaled corticosteroids like Flixotide (fluticasone) or Pulmicort (budesonide) because of its targeted delivery system. Below is a comparison of common preventative treatments:
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Standard Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Alvesco | Ciclesonide | Once or Twice Daily |
| Flixotide | Fluticasone Propionate | Twice Daily |
| Pulmicort | Budesonide | Once or Twice Daily |
Is Alvesco a steroid?
Yes, Alvesco contains ciclesonide which is a type of corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation in the airways.
Can I use Alvesco for an asthma attack?
No, Alvesco is a preventer inhaler and will not work quickly enough to stop a sudden asthma attack. You must always have a separate reliever inhaler (usually blue) available.
Do I need to wash my mouth out after using it?
While Alvesco is designed to be lung-activated to reduce mouth side effects, many clinicians still recommend rinsing your mouth with water after use to prevent oral thrush.
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional for personalised care. Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new medication to ensure it is safe for your specific health profile.
Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts to ensure it remains up to date, accurate and reliable. We follow strict editorial guidelines to provide our patients with the most current information regarding their treatments and respiratory health.
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