hi all, I’ve always had a reactive cough, mostly in spring and summer, and for years Clenil Modulate has done a pretty good job of keeping it under control. It’s a low-dose steroid inhaler, and generally, if I feel a tickle starting, a couple of puffs and I’m usually fine. This year, though, my GP switched me over to Fostair. It’s a combination inhaler, with both a steroid and a long-acting bronchodilator.
I understand the rationale - perhaps they felt my asthma wasn’t quite as ‘controlled’ as I thought, or maybe it’s just standard protocol for new prescriptions. But since I started using it, my cough has actually gotten worse. It feels more persistent, deeper, and less responsive to the usual quick fixes. I’m wondering if this is something others have experienced?
Could it be a transition phase, where my lungs are adjusting to a different medication? Or is it possible that Fostair, for my specific type of reactive cough, isn’t the right fit? I’ve read that sometimes the different propellant or the bronchodilator component can cause irritation, but I’m mostly just frustrated because I’ve gone from feeling reasonably managed to feeling like I’m constantly battling this cough. I’m scheduled for a follow-up with the practice nurse in a couple of weeks, but in the meantime, I’d really appreciate any insights or similar experiences.
Is it worth pushing to go back to something like Clenil, or should I give Fostair more time? Thanks for any advice you can offer.