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Inhaled corticosteroid thrush — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyRespiratory TherapeuticsInhaled corticosteroid thrushGPhC CRA

A patient using beclometasone inhaler twice daily reports a sore mouth and white plaques on the tongue. She uses the inhaler correctly but does not rinse afterwards. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Rinse the mouth after each dose and seek assessment for possible oral candidiasis

Inhaled corticosteroids can cause oral candidiasis and dysphonia. Rinsing the mouth after use reduces local adverse effects. The patient may need antifungal treatment if candidiasis is confirmed. Stopping preventer therapy abruptly may worsen asthma control.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS