Alvesco 160 Inhaler SmPC: ciclesonide summary
Quick summary: Alvesco 160 inhaler contains ciclesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid used for persistent asthma in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over. This page summarises the product information in plain English. It is...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: Alvesco 160 inhaler contains ciclesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid used for persistent asthma in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over. This page summarises the product information in plain English.
It is not a rescue inhaler for sudden breathing problems. Always follow the official patient leaflet or your prescriber’s instructions.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace the SmPC, patient leaflet, or advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Do not use this page to diagnose asthma or to change any prescribed treatment.
What is Alvesco 160 inhaler?
Alvesco 160 inhaler is a prescription medicine for asthma control. It contains ciclesonide 160 micrograms per actuation and is used in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over.
It is designed for ongoing asthma management rather than immediate relief of sudden symptoms.
How Alvesco works
Alvesco delivers ciclesonide directly to the lungs, where it helps reduce inflammation in the airways. This can support better asthma control when used regularly as prescribed.
The inhaler may be used with a spacer if advised by a healthcare professional, which can help some people use the device more effectively.
Key points from the product information
- Active ingredient: ciclesonide
- Strength: 160 micrograms per actuation
- Medicine type: inhaled corticosteroid
- Use: persistent asthma control
- Age group: adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over
How to use the inhaler
Use Alvesco exactly as directed by the prescriber or the official leaflet. Correct inhaler technique matters because it affects how much medicine reaches the lungs.
- Check the inhaler and remove the mouthpiece cover.
- Exhale gently before inhaling the dose.
- Place the mouthpiece in the mouth and seal the lips around it.
- Inhale slowly and deeply while releasing the dose.
- Hold the breath briefly if instructed in the leaflet.
- Replace the cover after use.
Rinsing the mouth after use may help reduce the chance of oral thrush, which can occur with inhaled corticosteroids.
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, Alvesco can cause side effects. The original content mentions throat irritation, cough, and headache as common examples.
It also notes that allergic reactions and signs of infection are possible but rare. If any unusual or worrying symptoms occur, a healthcare professional should be contacted.
- Throat irritation
- Cough
- Headache
- Allergic reactions
- Signs of infection
Dosage information
The original content states that the recommended dose is typically 160 micrograms once daily, with dose changes only considered by a healthcare provider if needed.
It also notes that a lower strength, Alvesco 80, may be used in some situations. The choice of strength depends on the individual treatment plan.
Long-term use
Long-term use of Alvesco may help reduce asthma attacks and improve day-to-day control when taken as prescribed. Regular review with a healthcare professional is important so treatment can be monitored appropriately.
If Alvesco is used alongside other medicines, especially corticosteroids, a pharmacist or doctor should check for possible interactions or treatment overlap.
How Alvesco compares with other inhalers
Alvesco is an inhaled corticosteroid, so its role is to help control airway inflammation. Other inhalers may contain different medicines and may be used for different purposes.
The best inhaler choice depends on the person’s asthma plan, symptom pattern, and response to treatment.
Quick comparison table
| Item | Alvesco 160 |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Ciclesonide |
| Strength | 160 micrograms per actuation |
| Medicine type | Inhaled corticosteroid |
| Main use | Persistent asthma control |
| Age group mentioned in the content | Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over |
FAQs about Alvesco 160 inhaler
▸ What type of medicine is Alvesco?
Alvesco is an inhaled corticosteroid used to help control asthma.
▸ What is the active ingredient in Alvesco 160?
The active ingredient is ciclesonide, with 160 micrograms delivered per actuation.
▸ Is Alvesco used for sudden asthma symptoms?
No. The content describes Alvesco as a medicine for ongoing asthma control, not immediate relief of sudden symptoms.
▸ Can Alvesco be used with a spacer?
The original content says it can be used with a spacer, which may help some people use the inhaler more effectively.
▸ What side effects are mentioned in the content?
Throat irritation, cough, and headache are listed, along with rare allergic reactions and signs of infection.
▸ Where can I confirm the exact dose and instructions?
Check the official SmPC, the patient leaflet, or ask a pharmacist or doctor for guidance specific to the prescribed product.
Safety reminder: If asthma symptoms worsen, or if there are concerns about side effects, inhaler technique, or interactions with other medicines, speak to a healthcare professional and refer to the official product leaflet.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.