Asthma Prevention Treatments

Asthma is characterised by ongoing airway inflammation, even when symptoms are absent. This inflammation can be triggered or worsened by allergies, respiratory infections, cold air, exercise, air pollution, and other environmental factors. For this reason, daily treatment is required, not only during flare-ups.

Preventer inhalers, commonly known as brown inhalers, are used daily, including when the person feels well. They work by reducing airway inflammation and helping to prevent symptom development.

Most preventer inhalers contain a low-dose inhaled corticosteroid, or a combination of a corticosteroid and a long-acting bronchodilator. Regular use helps maintain airway calm, reduces sensitivity to triggers, and lowers the risk of asthma attacks.

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Below are three common types of preventer inhalers used for long-term asthma control.

Clenil Modulite

Clenil is a steroid preventer inhaler (ICS) that contains beclometasone dipropionate. It is delivered using a pressurised spray inhaler (pMDI) and is used daily to help control asthma. A separate blue reliever inhaler remains necessary for sudden symptoms. Some improvement may be noticed within a few days, but the full benefit may take a few weeks.

Typically, the "first-line" preventer. If you find yourself using your blue reliever inhaler more than three times a week, you are usually eligible to start on Clenil.

Qvar

Qvar is a steroid preventer inhaler (ICS) that contains beclometasone dipropionate. It is available as a pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) and as a breath-actuated option. It is used daily to reduce airway inflammation and help control asthma.

A separate blue reliever inhaler is required for sudden symptoms, as Qvar does not provide immediate relief. The effect builds up gradually over several weeks, and treatment should not be stopped suddenly unless advised by a doctor.

Because Qvar uses "extra-fine" particles, it reaches deeper into the lungs. You might be switched to Qvar if standard inhalers aren't reaching the smaller airways effectively. 

Note: Qvar is much stronger than Clenil; usually, a dose of Qvar is about half the numerical dose of Clenil.

Fostair

Fostair is a combination preventer inhaler (ICS + LABA) containing beclometasone and formoterol. It is delivered using a pressurised spray inhaler (pMDI) and is used daily to reduce airway inflammation and help open the airways. A reliever inhaler is usually needed, unless you are on a MART (Maintenance and Reliever Therapy) plan. Asthma control improves gradually over several weeks, and it is important to follow your asthma plan carefully.

This is "Step 3" treatment. You are eligible if you use a controller (such as Clenil) consistently every day but still experience wheezing or chest tightness.

The choice of inhaler and dose will depend on clinical assessment, symptom control, and treatment response.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only. The choice of inhaler and strength is determined by a healthcare professional based on individual clinical needs.

You may be suitable if:

• You already use, or have been prescribed, a preventer inhaler
• You need a repeat supply of a preventer or a switch to a similar preventer
• You have been prescribed a steroid preventer (such as beclometasone inhalers like Clenil or Qvar) or a combination preventer (such as beclometasone + formoterol like Fostair)
• Your asthma is generally well-controlled with regular preventer use
• You understand you still need a reliever inhaler, unless you are on a MART plan

This service may not be suitable if:

• You have not been formally diagnosed with asthma
• You have had a recent serious asthma attack, A&E visit, or hospital admission
• You use your reliever inhaler most days or wake at night with symptoms
• Your symptoms are worsening despite regular preventer use
• You have new chest pain, severe breathlessness, or faintness

These situations may indicate poorly controlled or severe asthma and require an in-person Asthma review.

Why choose Ashcroft Pharmacy

Pharmacy-led care
Every request is reviewed by a UK-registered prescriber working alongside our pharmacy team. Your medical history and current medications are reviewed to ensure that treatment is appropriate.

Simple and discreet service
A short online consultation, clear next steps, and discreet delivery to your home.

Ongoing support
Clear guidance on how to use your treatment safely, with practical advice available when needed.

Responsible prescribing
Medicines are supplied only when suitable. If a treatment is not right for you, safe alternatives are discussed.

Our Clinical Assessment Process

1. Digital Consultation
You’ll complete a comprehensive online medical questionnaire. This isn't just a tick-box exercise; it’s designed by our clinical team to capture your symptoms, medical history, and any existing prescriptions.

2. Pharmacist Review
A UK-registered prescriber manually reviews your assessment. They look for "red flags" and ensure the requested treatment aligns with NICE guidelines (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence).

3. Safety Verification
We cross-reference your details to ensure the medication will not interact adversely with your current health profile. If our clinicians need more information, they will reach out via a secure message for a follow-up clinical consultation.

4. Clinical Decision

1. Approved: Your prescription is issued and sent to our pharmacy.
2. Alternative Suggested: If your first choice isn't safe, we’ll recommend a more suitable treatment.
3. GP Referral: If we believe you need a physical examination, we will advise you to book an appointment with your NHS GP.
4. Discreet dispensing and delivery: If approved, your treatment is prepared by our pharmacy team and delivered discreetly to your door.

How Our Online Service Works

Simple, safe, and designed around you. Here is what happens from start to finish.

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