The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a daily steroid preventer. GlaxoSmithKline UK makes it. Each puff delivers 125 micrograms of fluticasone propionate. Firstly, fluticasone is an inhaled steroid. Additionally, it calms the underlying swelling in your airways. As a result, it reduces the twitchiness that causes asthma symptoms. The Flixotide 125 Summary of Product Characteristics confirms the dose and indications.
Why the medium strength matters
The 125 microgram strength sits in the middle of the Flixotide Evohaler range. Meanwhile, the range also includes 50 and 250 microgram versions. In particular, the 125 microgram version suits patients whose asthma needs more than a low steroid dose. Additionally, at 4 puffs a day this counts as a medium ICS dose. Furthermore, this makes it a common step-up option in adult asthma.
A preventer, not a combination
Unlike Seretide 125 Evohaler, the Flixotide 125 Evohaler contains only fluticasone. Meanwhile, Seretide combines fluticasone with a long-acting reliever. As a result, Flixotide is for patients who need steroid cover alone. Additionally, it can be used alongside a separate reliever inhaler. NICE NG245 covers where steroid-only inhalers fit in the asthma pathway.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredient: fluticasone propionate 125 micrograms per metered dose
If your asthma needs a step-up from a low-dose steroid, or your prescriber wants to try fluticasone specifically, the Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a well-established option. Firstly, it delivers 125 micrograms of fluticasone per puff. Additionally, it uses a standard pressurised device familiar to most patients. At Courier Pharmacy, we help you make sense of whether this fluticasone preventer fits your control needs.
Five key takeaways
The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a fluticasone-only preventer at 125 micrograms per puff.
It’s a pressurised metered-dose inhaler with a familiar press-and-breathe design.
Licensed for adults, adolescents, and children over 16 with mild to severe asthma.
Medium strength steroid in the Flixotide range
The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber reviews every request at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
Treatment dosage Flixotide 125 Evohaler
Adult and adolescent dose
For adults and children over 16, the licensed range is 100 to 1,000 micrograms twice daily. However, the usual starting dose is 2 puffs twice daily. As a result, that’s 500 micrograms of fluticasone daily. Additionally, doses are usually taken 12 hours apart. The BNF and Flixotide 125 Summary of Product Characteristics confirm these figures.
When your reliever use signals a problem
Above all, needing your short-acting reliever more than 3 times a week is a signal. Firstly, it usually means your Flixotide dose isn’t holding your control. Additionally, it flags that a review is due. In fact, NICE NG245 links heavy reliever use to worse asthma outcomes. Rather than doubling up on Flixotide, contact your prescriber.
Stepping up or down
Your prescriber may step you up to Flixotide 250 or add a long-acting reliever. In particular, adding salmeterol turns the treatment into a Seretide-style combination. Furthermore, any step-down should be planned. Meanwhile, never stop your preventer suddenly. As a result, disclose any recent changes during consultation.
What is Flixotide 125 Evohaler: overview
A twice-daily steroid preventer containing fluticasone, one of the most-established inhaled steroids.
A pressurised suspension pMDI in a plastic actuator with a dust cap.
Licensed for adults and children over 16 with mild to severe asthma.
Made by GlaxoSmithKline UK, and part of the same fluticasone family as Seretide and Flutiform.
Prescription only, and typically the middle-strength option in the Flixotide Evohaler range.
Why fluticasone matters
Fluticasone propionate is a synthetic steroid. Firstly, it binds to steroid receptors inside airway cells. Meanwhile, it switches off the genes that produce inflammatory chemicals. As a result, airway swelling reduces over 1 to 2 weeks. Additionally, the airways become less twitchy. Peer-reviewed studies have shown fluticasone reduces asthma flare-ups significantly.
The Evohaler device
The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a pressurised metered-dose inhaler, or pMDI. Additionally, it’s a standard press-and-breathe type. It uses HFA-134a as the propellant. Notably, this is a modern ozone-friendly gas. Meanwhile, the device is CFC-free. As a result, it meets modern environmental standards.
No dose counter on Flixotide
Notably, the Flixotide Evohaler does not include a built-in dose counter. Meanwhile, many newer inhalers do. As a result, you’ll need to keep track of doses yourself. In particular, the 60-dose pack lasts 15 days at 4 puffs per day. Furthermore, the 120-dose pack lasts 30 days at the same rate.
Where the 125 strength fits
The Flixotide Evohaler range includes 50, 125, and 250 microgram strengths. Meanwhile, all three deliver fluticasone alone. In particular, the 125 microgram version delivers a medium ICS daily dose at 4 puffs. Furthermore, it suits patients who need more steroid than Flixotide 50 offers.
For adults and older adolescents
The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is generally for adults and children over 16. However, the Flixotide 50 Evohaler is used for younger children. As a result, if you’re prescribing for someone under 16, a different strength will usually be needed. Your prescriber will guide the right option for the age group.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Flixotide 125 Evohaler
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy. The General Pharmaceutical Council regulates us. Firstly, respiratory disease looks different for every patient. Additionally, your triggers, history, and device preferences all matter. As a result, our prescribers ask about those things. Getting your preventer right is about the fit.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
We don’t disappear after we’ve dispensed. Furthermore, if your control shifts, we’re here. Additionally, if a side effect appears, we help you make sense of it. For patients navigating MCAS, chronic fatigue, or fibromyalgia alongside respiratory care, that continuity matters. Care that fits you means care that keeps showing up.
Buy Flixotide 125 Evohaler (Prescription Only) from Courier Pharmacy
The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. You can request it at courierpharmacy.co.uk. Firstly, complete an online consultation. Then, a UK-qualified prescriber reviews your answers. If approved, we dispense and deliver discreetly.
Complete a quick online consultation
A UK prescriber reviews your answers
If approved, a prescription is issued
We dispense and deliver discreetly to your door
If it isn’t suitable for you, we’ll explain why and suggest the next best option.
Active ingredient in Flixotide 125 Evohaler
Fluticasone at a glance
The active ingredient is fluticasone propionate. Each puff of Flixotide 125 delivers 125 micrograms. In particular, fluticasone is a synthetic inhaled steroid. It binds to steroid receptors in airway cells and calms the swelling that drives asthma. As a result, the underlying inflammation reduces over weeks. The NHS fluticasone inhaler page covers the medicine in patient-facing terms.
What is Flixotide 125 Evohaler for?
Licensed for asthma prevention
The Flixotide 125 Evohaler is licensed for the prevention of asthma. In particular, this means using it every day, even when you feel well. Additionally, it reduces airway swelling over weeks of steady use. As a result, asthma symptoms become less frequent. Furthermore, flare-ups reduce in number and severity.
Where the 125 strength fits in the treatment ladder
At 125 micrograms per puff, this strength offers real dosing flexibility. Meanwhile, 2 puffs a day gives a low ICS dose (250 micrograms). Additionally, 4 puffs a day gives a medium ICS dose (500 micrograms). As a result, it suits patients who need more than Flixotide 50 offers. Furthermore, it also suits step-up therapy when control needs improving.
When you'll still need a reliever
Flixotide is not a rescue inhaler. Above all, it won't open your airways fast enough during an attack. As a result, always keep a short-acting reliever like salbutamol with you. However, if you're using your reliever more than 3 times a week, that's a signal. Contact your prescriber for a review.
How does Flixotide 125 Evohaler work?
Fluticasone calms airway swelling
Fluticasone binds to steroid receptors inside airway cells. Firstly, this switches off genes that produce inflammatory chemicals. As a result, airway swelling reduces gradually. Additionally, the airways become less twitchy over 1 to 2 weeks. Think of it as turning down the alarm system in your airways.
How the Evohaler device fires
The Evohaler is a pressurised metered-dose inhaler. Firstly, HFA-134a propellant sits under pressure inside the canister. Meanwhile, pressing the top releases a fine mist of medicine. As a result, breathing in at the same time draws the mist into your lungs. However, technique matters. Poor coordination reduces how much reaches the airways.
How long until you feel the full effect
You may notice some improvement in the first 4 to 7 days. However, the full anti-inflammatory benefit takes 1 to 2 weeks. Furthermore, maximum control usually shows within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent daily use. As a result, sticking with the daily routine matters. Above all, take it even when you feel well.
What Flixotide does not do
Flixotide does not open your airways quickly. Meanwhile, it does not act on airway muscle in the way a reliever does. Instead, it works on the underlying swelling. As a result, it needs time to build up its effect. Furthermore, it needs to keep working with regular use.
How to use Flixotide 125 Evohaler
Step-by-step technique
Firstly, remove the mouthpiece cap. Shake the inhaler well before each use. Then, breathe out fully, away from the mouthpiece. Next, put the mouthpiece between your teeth with lips closed. Now start to breathe in slowly and press the top at the same time. Hold your breath for 10 seconds if you can. The NHS provides an inhaler technique guide for reference.
Using a spacer
A spacer can improve delivery to the lungs. In particular, the Flixotide Evohaler pairs well with the Volumatic spacer. Additionally, using a spacer reduces the amount of medicine landing in your mouth or throat. As a result, side effects like thrush and hoarseness are less likely. Furthermore, ask your prescriber which spacer suits your inhaler.
Mouth care and storage
Rinse your mouth and spit afterwards, or brush your teeth. Additionally, inhaled steroids can cause oral thrush or a hoarse voice. Meanwhile, rinsing removes any medicine that hasn't reached your lungs. Furthermore, store the canister below 30 degrees Celsius. Never pierce or burn it, even when empty.
Warnings and precautions for Flixotide 125 Evohaler
Who should not use it
Firstly, don't use Flixotide if you're allergic to fluticasone or any of the ingredients. Additionally, tell your prescriber about any active lung infection, tuberculosis, or fungal chest infection. Similarly, mention any liver or kidney problems. As a result, these conditions may change how the prescriber weighs the treatment decision.
Steroid effects at medium and higher doses
Inhaled steroids can affect the body's natural steroid production. In particular, this matters at medium to high doses used for a long time. As a result, patients on Flixotide 125 may need a steroid safety card. Above all, tell any healthcare team you're on Flixotide, especially before surgery.
Growth in children
Long-term inhaled steroid use can slightly slow growth in children. Additionally, this effect is usually small. However, your prescriber will monitor your child's growth if they're on Flixotide 125 for a long time. Meanwhile, uncontrolled asthma itself also affects growth. As a result, the benefit of treatment usually outweighs the small growth effect.
Paradoxical bronchospasm
Very rarely, inhalers cause paradoxical bronchospasm. This is when airways tighten straight after use. Firstly, if this happens, stop Flixotide and use your reliever. Additionally, contact your prescriber urgently. Above all, don't continue with the same inhaler until reviewed.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Fluticasone has been used in pregnancy. However, data is more limited than for older ICS medicines like budesonide. Meanwhile, it does pass into breast milk in small amounts. As a result, if you're pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, mention it during your consultation.
Side effects of Flixotide 125 Evohaler
Common side effects
The most common side effects affect up to 1 in 10 people. These include oral thrush, hoarse voice, sore throat, and cough. Meanwhile, mild throat irritation can also occur. As a result, good technique and mouth care reduce these effects. Rinsing your mouth after use helps significantly.
Uncommon side effects
Uncommon side effects (up to 1 in 100) include muscle cramps and skin rashes. Furthermore, easy bruising can occur with long-term use. Additionally, some patients notice sleep problems. Your prescriber may monitor these effects during regular reviews.
Rare and very rare side effects
Rare side effects (up to 1 in 1,000) include cataract and glaucoma with long-term high-dose use. Very rare side effects (up to 1 in 10,000) include serious allergic reactions. Additionally, effects on adrenal gland function and reduced growth in children are possible. Above all, any of these need discussion with your prescriber.
When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent help for sudden worsening breathlessness after a puff. Similarly, seek help for facial swelling or difficulty breathing. Additionally, get help for signs of a severe allergic reaction. Meanwhile, any widespread rash or wheezing after use needs immediate attention.
Yellow Card reporting
You can report any suspected side effects directly via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
Drug interactions with Flixotide 125 Evohaler
CYP3A4 inhibitors
Firstly, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors can raise blood levels of fluticasone. In particular, this includes ritonavir and cobicistat. Additionally, ketoconazole, itraconazole, and clarithromycin also count. Meanwhile, this raises the risk of systemic steroid side effects. Above all, tell your prescriber if you take any of these.
Other steroids
Meanwhile, other steroids can add to systemic effects. Firstly, oral steroids like prednisolone matter. Additionally, injected steroids and topical steroids can also add up. As a result, disclose all steroid use during your consultation. Furthermore, your prescriber will consider the combined dose.
Other airway medicines
Additionally, other inhalers can be used alongside Flixotide under prescriber guidance. In particular, a short-acting reliever like salbutamol is often used together. However, other ICS-containing inhalers should not be added without review. Above all, tell your prescriber about every medicine you take.
Frequently asked questions about Flixotide 125 Evohaler
How quickly does the Flixotide 125 Evohaler work?
You may notice some improvement in the first 4 to 7 days. However, the full anti-inflammatory benefit takes 1 to 2 weeks. Furthermore, maximum control usually shows within 4 to 6 weeks. Stick with it every day, even when you feel well.
Is Flixotide a preventer or a reliever?
Flixotide is a preventer. As a result, it works quietly in the background over weeks. However, it will not open your airways during an asthma attack. Meanwhile, always keep a short-acting reliever with you for immediate symptom relief.
What's the difference between Flixotide and Seretide?
Both contain fluticasone as the steroid. However, Seretide also contains salmeterol as a long-acting reliever. As a result, Flixotide is a steroid-only preventer while Seretide is a combination inhaler. Your prescriber picks based on whether you need the long-acting reliever too.
What's the difference between Flixotide 50, 125, and 250?
All three contain fluticasone in the same Evohaler device. However, they differ in strength per puff. Firstly, Flixotide 50 gives 50 micrograms. Additionally, Flixotide 125 gives 125 micrograms and Flixotide 250 gives 250 micrograms. Your prescriber picks based on the daily dose you need.
Does Flixotide 125 Evohaler have a dose counter?
No. The Flixotide Evohaler does not include a built-in dose counter. Meanwhile, many newer inhalers do. As a result, you'll need to keep track of doses yourself. In particular, note the date you start each canister to avoid running out.
Can I stop Flixotide if I feel well?
No. Flixotide is a preventer, not a reliever. It works because you take it every day. As a result, stopping it allows swelling to build back up. Speak to your prescriber before any change. Any step-down should be planned, not sudden.
Why do I need to rinse my mouth after use?
Inhaled steroids can cause oral thrush, hoarse voice, or a sore throat. As a result, rinsing removes medicine that didn't reach your lungs. Additionally, it prevents these common side effects. Don't swallow the rinse water.
Can I use Flixotide 125 with a spacer?
Yes. The Flixotide Evohaler pairs well with a Volumatic spacer. Additionally, this improves delivery and reduces mouth side effects. Meanwhile, your prescriber can advise which spacer suits your inhaler. Above all, if your technique is imperfect, a spacer often helps significantly.
Can Flixotide 125 be used in children?
The 125 strength is generally for adults and children over 16. However, the Flixotide 50 strength is used more often for younger children. As a result, ask your prescriber about the right strength for children under 16. Above all, dosing decisions in children need careful specialist input.
Can I use Flixotide 125 during pregnancy?
Fluticasone has been used in pregnancy. However, data is more limited than for older ICS medicines. Meanwhile, it does pass into breast milk in small amounts. Above all, mention any pregnancy or breastfeeding during your consultation.
Will Flixotide affect my growth or my child's growth?
Long-term inhaled steroid use can slightly slow growth in children. Additionally, this effect is usually small. However, uncontrolled asthma also affects growth. As a result, the benefit of treatment usually outweighs the small growth effect. Your prescriber will monitor growth if needed.
Can Flixotide cause thrush?
Yes. Oral thrush is a common side effect of inhaled steroids. Meanwhile, rinsing your mouth after each use reduces the risk significantly. Additionally, using a spacer also helps. If you develop white patches in your mouth, tell your prescriber.
Can Flixotide make me hoarse?
Yes. Hoarseness is a common side effect of inhaled steroids. Above all, it usually settles as your voice adjusts. Additionally, rinsing your mouth after use and using a spacer both reduce the risk. If it persists, tell your prescriber.
Do I need a steroid safety card with Flixotide 125?
Possibly. Steroid safety cards are usually recommended for patients on medium or higher daily inhaled steroid doses. Additionally, they alert healthcare teams that you may need extra steroid cover in illness or surgery. Above all, ask your prescriber whether you need one on your dose.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it's nearly time for the next dose, skip it. Never double up. Consistency over weeks matters more than any single missed puff.
How should I store Flixotide 125 Evohaler?
Store below 30 degrees Celsius. Additionally, don't leave it in a hot car or direct sunlight. Never pierce or burn the canister, even when empty. Keep it out of the reach of children. Don't use it past the expiry date.
What if my inhaler feels cold?
If your Flixotide gets very cold, take the metal canister out of the plastic actuator. Then, warm it in your hands for a few minutes before use. Meanwhile, never use hot water or any other heat source. Above all, keep it dry throughout.
Will I need a prescription from Courier Pharmacy?
Yes. Flixotide 125 Evohaler is a Prescription Only Medicine. A UK-qualified prescriber must review your suitability. You can complete the consultation at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
What if Flixotide 125 isn't right for me?
Sometimes a different strength or a combination inhaler like Seretide suits better. In other cases, budesonide or beclometasone may be preferred. Whatever the situation, we'll explain why and suggest the next best option. Honesty over sales, every time.
More than a prescription: our community
Free fortnightly drop-in clinics in Derby
Healthcare shouldn't only happen when you're paying for it. Every fortnight, we run free drop-in talks at Insomnia, Derby, from 10 am to 12 pm. Anyone can come. No appointment. No cost. No pressure.
Topics we cover
We cover asthma control and inhaler technique. Additionally, we discuss weight management and hormone health. Furthermore, we cover MCAS, chronic fatigue, and more. Learn more about our community talks at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow your prescriber's instructions.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2024) Asthma: diagnosis, monitoring and chronic asthma management. NICE guideline NG245. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng245
