QVAR, a brand-name inhaled corticosteroid used to treat asthma, was discontinued by its manufacturer, AstraZeneca, in the United States. The product was voluntarily withdrawn from the market due to a lack of commercial viability, not due to safety or efficacy concerns.
When did QVAR become unavailable?
QVAR was discontinued by AstraZeneca in late 2021 and became unavailable to patients in early 2022 [1].
What are the reasons for QVAR's discontinuation?
The primary reason for QVAR's discontinuation in the U.S. was its lack of commercial viability. This means that sales of the drug were not meeting the manufacturer's expectations, leading to the business decision to cease its production and distribution. Importantly, the discontinuation was not related to any issues with the drug's safety or effectiveness [1].
What can I use instead of QVAR?
For individuals who were using QVAR, there are several alternative inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) available for asthma management. These include:
* Pulmicort (budesonide) [2]
* Flovent (fluticasone propionate) [2]
* Asmanex (mometasone furoate) [2]
* Aerospan (flunisolide) [2]
Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the most suitable alternative based on their individual medical needs and treatment history.
Are there generic versions of QVAR?
Yes, there are generic versions of beclomethasone dipropionate, the active ingredient in QVAR. These generics may still be available even though the brand-name QVAR has been discontinued [3].
How do other inhaled corticosteroids compare to QVAR?
While QVAR has been removed from the market, other inhaled corticosteroids share similar mechanisms of action. These medications work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to prevent asthma symptoms. The choice between different ICS medications often depends on factors such as potency, delivery device, and individual patient response [2].
Who manufactured QVAR?
QVAR was manufactured by AstraZeneca [1].
Sources
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/news/qvar-discontinuation-reason-us-market/
2. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/qvar/
3. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/beclomethasone-dipropionate/