Fostair
Fostair is a combination inhaler used for managing asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It delivers a pressurised inhalation solution to help prevent and relieve breathing difficulties.
Key facts
- Classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK
- Treatment category: Respiratory
- Price (if prescribed): from £38.99
- Typical supply: 28 days
- Availability: Available following an online consultation
- Prescriber review: every order is assessed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist
Fostair: Effective Treatment for Asthma and COPD
What is Fostair?
Fostair is a combination inhaler used for managing asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It delivers a pressurised inhalation solution to help prevent and relieve breathing difficulties.
As a preventative and reliever inhaler, Fostair is effective both for long-term management and during flare-ups. It helps open airways, reduce inflammation, and ease breathing, making it a versatile treatment.
To purchase Fostair online, you must have a prior diagnosis of asthma or COPD and a prescription from a healthcare professional.
How Does Fostair Work?
Fostair contains two active ingredients:
- Beclometasone dipropionate:
- A corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the lungs and airways.
- Prevents the immune system from narrowing the airways due to triggers such as allergens or smoke.
- Formoterol fumarate:
- A long-acting bronchodilator that relaxes the muscles in the airways.
- Increases airflow, improving breathing during flare-ups.
Environmental Impact of Fostair
Fostair is a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI), which uses propellants that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases contribute to global warming, making pMDIs less environmentally friendly than other inhalers.
Environmentally Friendly Alternatives
Consider switching to a dry powder inhaler (DPI) or a soft mist inhaler (SMI) for a lower carbon footprint. Speak with your healthcare professional to explore suitable, eco-friendly options.
How to Use Fostair
General Dosage Guidelines
For Asthma:
- Take one puff in the morning and one puff in the evening.
- Use an additional puff if symptoms worsen.
- Do not exceed four puffs per day.
For COPD:
- Take two puffs in the morning and two puffs in the evening.
- Do not exceed four puffs per day.
Steps to Use the Inhaler
- Remove the cap from the mouthpiece.
- Exhale deeply to empty your lungs.
- Place the inhaler in your mouth, press the top, and inhale deeply.
- Hold your breath for a few seconds to allow the medication to work.
- If a second puff is needed, wait 30 seconds before repeating.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Clean the inhaler weekly using a dry tissue—avoid water or soaps.
- Check the dose counter to ensure you have enough medication. Replace the inhaler when the counter reaches zero.
Possible Side Effects of Fostair
Fostair is generally safe, but like all medications, it may cause side effects.
Common Side Effects
- Headache.
- Hoarseness or sore throat.
- Cough.
Serious Side Effects
- Paradoxical bronchospasm: Rare airway constriction in response to bronchodilators.
- Increased risk of infections due to long-term corticosteroid use.
If you experience severe side effects or persistent symptoms, contact your healthcare professional immediately.
Who Can Use Fostair?
Fostair is not suitable for everyone. You should avoid this treatment if:
- You are allergic to any of its ingredients (a full list is in the PIL).
- You are using beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, propranolol).
Medical Conditions to Consider
Inform your healthcare professional if you have:
- Heart conditions, including chest pain or high blood pressure.
- Liver or kidney disease.
- Diabetes.
- Tuberculosis or other respiratory infections.
Why Choose Fostair?
- Dual Action: Acts as both a reliever and preventative inhaler.
- Convenient Use: Easy to administer with a simple dosage schedule.
- Effective Management: Helps control asthma and COPD symptoms.
How to Buy Fostair Online?
You can order Fostair from Medihealth Direct safely and securely. Follow these steps:
- Complete an Online Consultation: Provide details of your symptoms and medical history.
- Healthcare Professional Review: A licensed healthcare professional will assess your suitability.
- Order Dispatch: Approved orders are shipped with free next-day delivery.
If your order is not approved, you will receive a full refund.
Fostair FAQs
What is Fostair used for?
Fostair is a combination inhaler used to manage asthma and COPD symptoms.
Is Fostair a reliever or preventative inhaler?
Fostair is both a preventative and reliever inhaler.
Can I buy Fostair without a prescription?
No, Fostair is a prescription-only medicine.
Can Fostair be used for children?
Fostair is not recommended for children under 18 years of age.
Does Fostair affect the environment?
Yes, as a pMDI, Fostair emits greenhouse gases. Consider eco-friendly alternatives like DPIs or SMIs.
How does the online consultation for Fostair work?
- Complete a confidential online health questionnaire.
- A GPhC-registered pharmacist reviews your answers and confirms whether the treatment is clinically appropriate.
- If approved, your medication is dispensed by the pharmacy and delivered in discreet packaging by tracked UK delivery.
See how the service works or browse all treatments.