Your doctor will tell you how often you
need to use your inhaler. It’s important that you take the lowest dose
needed to effectively control your asthma. The effect of this medicine
may be noticeable after a few days but will only reach its maximum after
a few weeks. This medicine must be used regularly to be effective, so
go on taking it even if you don't have any symptoms. That means it’s
doing its job. If you stop taking it your asthma may get worse. It
should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack
occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (reliever). To get the benefit
from this medicine you need to make sure you get your inhaler technique
right, otherwise, it does not work as well.
The most common side
effects are hoarseness of voice, sore throat, fungal infection of mouth,
respiratory tract infection, headache, and muscle cramp. If you get
these, don’t stop taking it but do talk to your doctor. You can help
prevent some of these symptoms by rinsing your mouth and throat with
water or brushing your teeth after using your inhaler. There are other,
rarer side effects which can be serious. Talk to your doctor if you're
worried about them. In general, you should be trying to avoid situations
that make your asthma worse (your triggers) and try not to smoke.
Ask
your doctor whether it’s safe to take this medicine if you're pregnant
or breastfeeding. Before taking it, you should tell your doctor if you
have any kidney or liver diseases so that your doctor can prescribe a
suitable dose for you.