Anyone get a text message from GP about the Fostair/Luforbec switch?

[Starry4321]

This is getting ridiculous now. After my gp mentioned they are under pressure to change me to luforbec as its cheaper and then actually admitting it’s a rubbish inhaler and loads of patients are having issues with it, I’ve now had a text saying they’ve been instructed to switch from Fostair to Luforbec. As a result my next prescription will have the different inhaler. I don’t want to switch. I’ve only heard bad things about it. I have a young child and can’t risk a flair up.

Can I buy Fostair privately? Can I refuse to switch? Appreciate the NHS needs to save money but you don’t mess with asthma as it’s so hard to get it under control when it flares.

I have had the opposite problem. Luforbec was recently in short supply and I got given Fostair instead. I actually prefer Luforbec. I would be interested to know what you find better with Fostair.

My GP swopped me from Fostair to Luforbec without asking about a year ago. The dispenser didn't give an even spray, or sometimes at all. I couldn't be sure if I had the right dose. Another irritating thing is it doesn't have a dosage meter and I ran out more than once. The asthma nurse offered to change back to Fostair, and mentioned many patients didn't get on with Luforbec.

My Luforbec does have a dose counter, I wonder if there are different types? If you are prescribed an inhaler you can buy them online. I have done this before so as to have a spare.

I was swapped to Lufobec for the same reason and really struggled to inhale it. Even with my spacer, it made me cough immediately. I spoke the my asthma nurse and was switched straight back to Fostair.
My mother-in-law had a pharmacist ask her why she was on such an expensive prescription. I am always happy to try an alternative but if it doesn't suit me then I will always push to return to the original medication.