Fostair Inhaler Uses, Side Effects & How It Compares to Other Asthma Inhalers in the UK

Managing asthma and chronic respiratory conditions can be stressful, especially when choosing the right inhaler. One name that often comes up in UK prescriptions is the Fostair inhaler. If you or a loved one have been recommended Fostair, this guide will help you understand what it is, how it works, what to expect, and how it compares to other inhalers like Seretide.

What Is the Fostair Inhaler and How Does It Work?

The Fostair asthma inhaler in the UK is commonly prescribed for people with moderate to severe asthma and for some with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It is a combination inhaler, meaning it contains two medicines in one device:

• Beclometasone dipropionate – a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation in the airways.
• Formoterol fumarate dihydrate – a long-acting bronchodilator that helps open up the airways and makes breathing easier.

These medicines work together to reduce symptoms like wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, and breathlessness. The anti-inflammatory effect helps control asthma long-term, while the bronchodilator provides relief within 1 to 3 minutes and keeps airways open for up to 12 hours.

Common Uses of Fostair Inhaler

Fostair is generally used as a preventer and reliever inhaler. This means it can do both:

• Help prevent symptoms from flaring up when used regularly, and
• Provide quick relief during a breathing episode.

Depending on your condition and how well it’s managed, our pharmacist may advise you to use Fostair regularly or only as needed. In some cases, Fostair is used as maintenance therapy and also as a quick-relief inhaler, replacing the need for a separate reliever.

Fostair Inhaler Side Effects: What to Expect

Like all medicines, Fostair can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Some people may notice mild discomfort, while others may need to stop using it and speak to an expert.

Most Common Side Effects

These affect more than 1 in 10 people:

• Thrush (fungal infections) in the mouth or throat
• Headache
• Sore throat or hoarseness

To reduce the risk of thrush, rinse your mouth with water after using the inhaler.

Uncommon Side Effects (1 in 100 people)

• Fast heartbeat or palpitations
• Sinusitis, sore ears, flu-like symptoms
• Dry mouth, nausea, upset stomach, altered taste
• Muscle cramps, tremors, skin rashes
• Changes in blood sugar, potassium or insulin levels

These may go away on their own, but it’s best to speak with our experts if symptoms continue.

Rare and Serious Side Effects

Some users may experience:

• Pneumonia, especially if using Fostair for COPD. Watch out for:
  • Fever or chills
  • Increased coughing or mucus
  • Difficulty breathing
• Paradoxical bronchospasm: This is when your breathing worsens just after using the inhaler. If this happens, stop using Fostair and use your quick-relief inhaler instead. Contact our pharmacist urgently.
• Swelling of lips, face, or throat, which may be signs of an allergic reaction.
• Very rarely, irregular heartbeat, kidney inflammation, or breathing difficulties may occur.

If you’re ever unsure about a reaction, do not ignore it. Always consult our experts if needed.

Fostair vs Seretide: How Do They Compare?

Both Fostair and Seretide are widely used in the UK to treat asthma and COPD, and both contain a steroid plus a bronchodilator. However, they differ in ingredients and how they’re used.

Fostair

• Ingredients: Beclometasone + Formoterol
• Speed: Acts quickly (within 1–3 minutes)
• Usage: Often used as both a daily preventer and as-needed reliever
• Strength: Good anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator balance
• Device Type: Metered-dose inhaler

Seretide

• Ingredients: Fluticasone + Salmeterol
• Speed: Slower onset, but long-lasting (12+ hours)
• Usage: Preventer only – not for sudden asthma attacks
• Strength: Especially effective in long-term inflammation control
• Device Type: Accuhaler or Evohaler

Key Differences

• Fostair works faster to open the airways, making it suitable for those who need both relief and prevention in one.
• Seretide is slower to act and is purely a maintenance inhaler. You’ll need a separate fast-acting inhaler like salbutamol for sudden symptoms.
• Fostair can be more flexible for people who want fewer inhalers to carry around.

In terms of effectiveness, both work well when used correctly. Your choice may depend on your personal health needs, inhaler technique, and how your body responds to each medicine.

Our experts can help guide you on which inhaler suits your condition best.

Tips for Using the Fostair Inhaler Correctly

To get the most benefit from your Fostair inhaler:

• Shake the inhaler gently before use.
• Breathe out fully before placing the inhaler in your mouth.
• Press the canister once as you begin to breathe in slowly.
• Hold your breath for 5–10 seconds after inhaling, then breathe out gently.
• Rinse your mouth with water afterwards to help avoid infections like oral thrush.

Make sure to follow the dose and timing recommended by our pharmacist. Do not increase or skip doses without advice.

Precautions and Who Should Avoid Fostair

Fostair may not be suitable for everyone. Let our experts know if:

• You have heart problems, high blood pressure, or thyroid issues.
• You have had tuberculosis or fungal infections in the lungs.
• You’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive.
• You’re allergic to any of the ingredients in the inhaler.

Fostair should not be used to treat sudden asthma attacks. Always carry your fast-acting inhaler, like salbutamol, with you in case of emergencies. 

Which Inhaler Is Right for You?

Choosing the right asthma inhaler can make a big difference in managing your condition. Fostair is a popular option in the UK because of its fast action, dual-purpose use, and ability to ease symptoms quickly. It is especially helpful for people who prefer one inhaler that can handle both day-to-day management and occasional relief.

Seretide, on the other hand, may be better for those with stable asthma who just need a strong preventer.

Everyone’s lungs are different. What works well for one person may not be ideal for another. You may also respond better to certain inhaler types or ingredients. That’s why it's important to speak with our pharmacist if you notice any issues or if your current inhaler is not working as well as it used to.

Start Breathing Easier with the Right Inhaler

Managing asthma or COPD doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you're already using Fostair or considering a switch, understanding your options and staying consistent with your inhaler routine is key to better breathing.

Shop Fostair inhalers and other asthma treatments online at Pharmacy Planet and enjoy fast, reliable delivery across the UK. Our experts are always available to answer your questions and help you find the most suitable treatment for your respiratory needs.