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In vitro fertilization (IVF) has made parenthood a reality for many individuals and couples who once struggled to conceive, but that doesn’t mean it is an easy process. Not only is it challenging on both an emotional and financial level, the fertility medications used in a cycle can affect the body in many ways.

How to Navigate Common IVF Side Effects

Knowing what to anticipate can make the experience easier to navigate. To help you prepare as much as possible for your IVF cycle, we’ve put together a guide to medication side effects and management strategies.

This post is a deep dive into medication side effects. For a closer look at the IVF process and medication sequencing, read:

IVF and Egg Freezing: What to Expect and How to Prepare

IVF Medications: Schedule and Side Effects Explained

Below are the main categories of IVF medications and associated side effects. While individual medication protocols vary, you can generally anticipate the types of medications your doctor will prescribe.

The first phase of IVF focuses on stimulating egg growth. These are some of the medications you may take during this stage:

These medications are typically taken as nightly injections, with the exception of Clomid/Letrozole, which is an oral medication.

Known side effects of these medications include:

Injection site reaction (soreness, redness, or mild bruising)

Mood swings including heightened sensitivity, irritability, euphoria, or depression - individual responses vary

Ovulation suppression medications prevent premature ovulation — the body’s natural release of eggs from the ovaries — so that your doctor can retrieve as many eggs as possible for fertilization. These are some of the medications you may take at this stage:

Cetrotide/Fyramedel™ (ganirelix acetate)

These medications also bring the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This condition is characterized by swelling and pain in the ovaries as the result of over stimulation or an excessive hormonal response to fertility medications. Many mild cases don’t require treatment, but doctors often recommend the following medications for moderate to severe symptoms. (These medications may also be prescribed to prevent OHSS.)

Cabergoline is an oral medication, sometimes used vaginally, that can reduce OHSS symptoms

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) antagonists or letrozole suppress ovarian activity

In some cases, your doctor may recommend canceling treatment and starting a new cycle in the future after OHSS symptoms have resolved.

Once your eggs have sufficiently developed, your doctor will schedule 1-3 trigger shots to give your eggs a final growth spurt and trigger release.

At this point in your cycle you may feel very full in your abdomen as the ovaries are enlarged from growing follicles.

The final phase of IVF is the transfer of a fertilized egg into your uterus. Progesterone or estrogen supplements are often prescribed at this stage to support successful implantation of an embryo and sustain a healthy pregnancy.

Progesterone is taken as an intramuscular injection or vaginally in the form of suppositories and capsules. Known side effects include:

Soreness or swelling at the site of injection, if taking progesterone injections

Vaginal itching or burning and yeast infection, if taking vaginally

Estrogen is typically taken as a topical patch but can also be taken orally, vaginally, or as an injection. Known side effects include:

Redness or irritation in the skin covered by the patch, if taking topically

Increased vaginal discharge, if taking vaginally

Constipation, bloating, or stomach cramps  

Everyone has a different threshold for pain or discomfort. You know your body best. If anything feels unusual, it’s always worth speaking with your doctor.

Below are effective and safe ways to treat common side effects during IVF. Many over-the-counter products can be added to the next delivery of your fertility medications through Essentials From Alto.

This is one of the most common side effects during IVF, and you should expect to experience some soreness, redness, or bruising at the site of injection. You don’t need to do anything to treat the reaction; it will typically resolve itself within a few days.

Icing your skin beforehand can help keep this side effect to a minimum for intramuscular injections — the deeper of the two injection techniques used during IVF. Be sure to massage your skin afterwards, both to help the medication spread and to prevent soreness in your muscles.

Icing isn’t necessary for subcutaneous injections, the other injection technique.

If you are prescribed estrogen as a topical patch during the final phase of IVF, rotating the location of your patch can help prevent skin irritation.

The patch should be applied to an area of your skin free of powder, lotions, hair, and cuts or other irritations. The most common application sites are the lower abdomen or buttocks.

It's important to let application sites heal as much as possible before reapplying a patch. Aim for at least one week between patch applications.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) is the best way to treat pain during IVF. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) during IVF. Their anti-inflammatory properties prevent the ovaries from expanding and growing, essentially canceling out treatment.

Shop acetaminophen through Essentials From Alto.

Eating smaller meals can help reduce bloating. Some individuals also take simethicone (Gas-X®). If you develop acid reflux from bloating, Tums® is safe to take.

Order digestive health products through Essentials From Alto.

Stool softeners like Colace® and the fiber supplement Metamucil® are often used to alleviate constipation. In addition, stay hydrated — drinking more water helps stool softeners work better — and opt for fiber-rich foods.

Heating pads and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are commonly used to alleviate abdominal cramping during IVF. NSAIDs should be avoided.

Pantiliners can help absorb additional vaginal discharge caused by vaginal preparations of estrogen.

Over-the-counter nausea relief options include ginger chews, peppermints, and nausea bracelets. You can also speak with your doctor about your options for prescription nausea medication if symptoms persist.

Some IVF side effects like mood swings and hot flashes occur as the result of hormonal changes, making them harder to treat.

However, if you find that mood changes are interfering with daily activities, speak with your doctor about medication. Many medications for mood disorders are safe to take during IVF. 

Vaginal itching or burning and yeast infection

Some OTC antifungals like Monistat® are helpful for vaginal itching or burning and yeast infections. However, always check with your doctor before using these medications to make sure they’re appropriate for you. You can also ask your doctor about prescription medication options like fluconazole (Diflucan®).

A healthy pregnancy begins well in advance of trying to conceive. Preconception health planning sets you up to feel your best while growing a baby, allowing you to work towards health goals and manage preexisting conditions that could potentially result in complications.

How to Have the Healthiest Pregnancy Possible

It can also help you make any necessary changes to your treatment plan — for example, if you take a medication that is considered unsafe during pregnancy, your doctor can help you safely transition to an alternative.

Below, we break down some of the most important steps to take as you focus on your health and wellness while building or growing your family.

1. Consult your doctor about your health history

As you begin to plan for a baby, schedule a doctor’s appointment to identify any health issues that can impact pregnancy — whether it’s your first, second, third, or fourth.

While chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, and asthma are sometimes linked to pregnancy complications, you can prevent health challenges during pregnancy by staying proactive about treatment. For those with diabetes, this means working with your provider to maintain healthy blood sugar levels before trying to conceive. The same goes for hypertension and blood pressure levels.

Read Navigating Pregnancy With Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes

Be sure to discuss any past pregnancy complications, if relevant. Experiencing certain complications in a first pregnancy can increase your risk of having them again in a later pregnancy. These complications include:

This does not mean that a recurrence is inevitable. Proactively managing your risk before and during pregnancy is the most important thing you can do to prevent these complications.

You should also share any health issues that you experienced during postpartum, including mental health challenges.

Changing a medication regimen or treatment plan

A pre-pregnancy care checkup is also an opportunity to discuss potential changes to your treatment plan. Bring all medications you are currently taking with you to this appointment, including vitamins and herbal remedies.

Never stop taking a prescribed medication without first consulting your doctor. Many medications cannot be abruptly discontinued and require you to slowly titrate, or taper off, over a period of time

It is recommended to focus on preconception health at least three months prior to pregnancy. However, everyone has unique health needs, and you may need more time to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. Try, as much as possible, to be patient and give your body the time and space it needs.

2. Get all recommended vaccines and screenings

At the beginning of your family building journey, ask your doctor which vaccines are recommended for your age. Certain infections or illnesses can cause birth defects or pregnancy complications. Many of these can be prevented with vaccines. And since illness-fighting antibodies can pass through the placenta, vaccinated individuals can pass along immunity to their growing baby in the womb.

It’s important to stay up to date since the recommended timing of vaccines varies. Not all can be given during pregnancy while others can. Your doctor can clarify which vaccines are recommended before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and after delivery. (Two of the most important vaccines for pregnant women, the flu vaccine and the Tdap vaccine (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis), can be safely administered during pregnancy.)

Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including HIV, HPV, and viral hepatitis can cause pregnancy complications and harm a developing fetus. Fortunately, treatment can prevent transmission to a baby. Screening for these infections is a critical step in planning for a healthy pregnancy.

3. Take steps to live your healthiest life

In the months before trying to conceive, revisit your health habits and make any changes to your routine or lifestyle that can support the healthiest pregnancy possible. There are several key areas to focus on.

Several nutrients are especially important to consume in the months before pregnancy. 

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends taking a prenatal vitamin with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day for at least a month before pregnancy through the first trimester. This important nutrient supports a baby’s growth and development and can prevent certain birth defects.

Depending on your health history and previous pregnancies, your provider may advise you to increase your intake of folic acid with an additional supplement.

(You can add prenatal vitamins to your next Alto delivery!)

Calcium helps build a developing fetus’s bones and teeth. Dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt are the primary sources of calcium, but you can also get this nutrient from other sources including:

If you are concerned about your calcium intake, ask your doctor about calcium supplements.

Iron also helps support a healthy pregnancy. Some prenatal vitamins include iron. It can also be found in the following iron-rich foods:

In addition, be sure to eat foods that support your body’s absorption of iron, including the following fruits and veggies, which are rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene:

If you have anemia, your doctor may recommend additional iron supplements.

An omega-3 fatty acid called DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, is important for fetal growth and development. It can be found in some foods such as fatty fish. Depending on your diet, your doctor may recommend taking supplemental DHA before and during pregnancy and in the postpartum period. Some prenatal vitamins contain DHA, but not all, so be sure to check the ingredient list.

Since heavy caffeine consumption can affect fertility, it is recommended to reduce your intake to 200-300 mg per day.

Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, incorporating some muscle-strengthening exercises.

Being underweight or overweight can cause health issues during pregnancy. Try to reach and maintain a healthy weight in the months before trying to conceive. Your provider is an important resource and can advise you on whether your weight may impact your pregnancy.

Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using certain drugs — including misusing prescription medication — can cause serious health issues during pregnancy like preterm birth and birth defects. When planning for a future pregnancy, do not be afraid to ask for any support needed to give up harmful behaviors. Your provider can offer resources. 

It’s also important to avoid secondhand smoke during pregnancy.

Genetics are a factor in your baby’s health and the progression of your pregnancy. Prior to pregnancy, discuss your family’s health history as well as your partner’s with your provider. This allows them to identify any genetic risk factors.

Some couples and individuals may be referred to a genetic specialist for reasons such as the following:

A family history of a genetic condition, birth defect, chromosomal disorder, or cancer

Two or more pregnancy losses or a stillbirth

Having given birth to a child with a genetic condition, birth defect, or intellectual disability

These risk factors do not guarantee that your baby will develop a health condition or that you will have a complicated pregnancy. Genetic testing can determine the likelihood of passing on a genetic issue to a child. A genetic specialist can help you understand your options for testing.

5. Prioritize your partner’s health as well

Preconception health concerns both parents. Male partners should also take steps to become as healthy as possible, which will improve their own reproductive health and fertility. This includes limiting their alcohol intake, quitting smoking or using harmful substances, and eating a healthy diet. (These lifestyle factors have been linked to issues with sperm production.)

Other important steps for male partners to take before trying to conceive include getting screened for STIs and consulting with a provider about family health history and medication use.

Alto Pharmacy can support you in preparing for a healthy pregnancy, however that looks for you. From delivering prenatal vitamins straight to your doorstep, supporting you in managing a chronic condition, or helping you navigate fertility treatment, we make it as simple as possible to focus on your health.

We offer free, same-day delivery and in-app medication management tools like reminders and auto refills. Additionally, our pharmacists are available to answer any questions you may have about medications or side effects.

To learn more, reach out any time through secure in-app messaging or by phone at 1-800-874-5881.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

The thyroid may be small, but it plays a significant role in your overall health and wellness. This butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your throat produces and regulates hormones that influence your metabolism and energy level, cholesterol, heart rate, body temperature, and more.

How to Manage an Overactive Thyroid

Balanced thyroid hormones allow your body’s many systems to properly function, and issues with the thyroid can impact many aspects of your health.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone, accelerating the metabolism beyond normal. The condition can result in unintentional weight loss and/or an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Without treatment, it can lead to more serious complications such as congenital heart failure, eye health issues, and osteoporosis.

There are several effective treatment options for hyperthyroidism, including medications and surgical procedures. Here’s what to know about managing hyperthyroidism.

Causes and risk factors of hyperthyroidism

Several conditions or health factors may lead to overproduction of thyroid hormone. Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies overly stimulate the thyroid, is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism, accounting for 85% of all cases.

The development of thyroid nodules, which are typically benign lumps or growths in the thyroid that produce more hormones than needed

Thyroiditis, or thyroid inflammation, which most commonly occurs after pregnancy due to an underlying autoimmune disease or unknown cause

Excess consumption of iodine — a mineral critical to the production of thyroid hormone — through diet or medications

There are also several known factors that may increase your risk of developing the condition, including:

Health conditions including pernicious anemia, Type 1 diabetes, and primary adrenal insufficiency (also known as Addison’s disease)

Hyperthyroidism is associated with a wide range of signs and symptoms such as the following:

Unintentional weight loss even with increased food intake

Enlarged thyroid gland at the base of your neck

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may be subtle for some individuals. In addition, many common symptoms overlap with those of other health conditions. If you have any concerns about your thyroid health, consult with your provider for an evaluation.

Hyperthyroidism is associated with irregular menstrual cycles, which can lead to difficulty conceiving. Many people initially learn of a hyperthyroidism diagnosis after experiencing fertility challenges. The treatment options described in more detail below can help restore hormone levels and ovulation.

There are several ways to diagnose hyperthyroidism, including a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests.

Your healthcare provider may check your thyroid, eyes, heart, hands, and skin during a physical exam to confirm a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism.

Your provider may recommend thyroid function testing, which consists of measuring your thyroid hormone levels via blood samples. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by elevated levels of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and lower-than-normal levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Your provider may also use one or more imaging tests to more closely examine your thyroid, including a radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test, a thyroid scan, and a thyroid ultrasound.

There are a variety of treatment options for hyperthyroidism. Your provider will make individualized recommendations based on the cause of your hyperthyroidism and your overall health history.

The following types of medications are commonly used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism.

Anti-thyroid medications including methimazole (Tapazole®) and propylthiouracil (PTU) reduce symptoms by preventing over-production of thyroid hormones. These medications are typically taken for at least a year, though symptoms may improve within weeks or months.

Radioactive iodine is an oral medication that targets overactive thyroid cells, causing the thyroid to shrink and lowering hormone levels within a few weeks. This treatment approach permanently affects thyroid function, so symptoms of hyperthyroidism will not reappear. In most cases, the use of thyroid hormone medications is necessary after this treatment to maintain balanced hormone levels.

Beta blockers can control associated symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, nervousness, or tremors. These medications cause the heart to beat more slowly and less forcefully. They will not change hormone levels and are typically used in tandem with anti-thyroid medications or radioactive iodine therapy. Commonly prescribed beta blockers include atenolol (Tenormin®), bisoprolol (Zebeta®), metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor®), metoprolol succinate (Toprol-XL®), acebutolol (Sectral®), and propranolol (Inderal®).

Some cases of hyperthyroidism require removal of part or all of the thyroid gland in a procedure known as a thyroidectomy. While this is effective at treating hyperthyroidism, it can result in an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), which requires ongoing use of thyroid supplements.

Iodine consumption can contribute to the development of hyperthyroidism or worsen symptoms. Managing hyperthyroidism often includes monitoring iodine intake.

If your provider recommends following a low-iodine diet, try to avoid or limit your intake of seafood and seaweed, which have the highest iodine content of all foods. Other high-iodine foods to consume in moderation include milk and dairy products, egg yolk, and iodized salt.

Never make significant changes to your diet without first consulting your provider or a nutritionist.

Managing hyperthyroidism is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists can answer any questions you may have about treatment, and we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common form of arthritis that affects children and adolescents. Like adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA), JIA is characterized by pain and inflammation throughout the body as the result of joint inflammation and stiffness.

In contrast to the ongoing nature of RA, some children do outgrow JIA. However, it can impact a growing child’s bone development, so treatment is important.

Here’s what to know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of JIA.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis affects children and adolescents age 16 and under. It may cause joint pain and inflammation anywhere in the body, but most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists.

If untreated, JIA can lead to health complications, including:

Eye health issues such as cataracts or glaucoma, as JIA can cause inflammation in the eyes

More rarely, issues with the kidneys, heart, or endocrine system

The prognosis of JIA varies by individual. About 50% of children and adolescents with the condition fully recover while others continue to experience arthritis symptoms in adulthood. 

All forms of arthritis including JIA fall under the umbrella of autoimmune diseases. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. With arthritis, the immune system acts on the lining of your joints.

The causes of JIA aren’t fully known (idiopathic means unknown). Genetics likely play a component. Some evidence suggests that some children have a gene that leads to the development of JIA when activated by external factors such as a virus or bacteria.

Symptoms of juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Symptoms of JIA can vary from one child to another. Some individuals experience flare-ups, or periods when symptoms intensify, while others have a more chronic experience of the condition.

Pain and inflammation in the joints, most commonly in the hands, knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists. (For many, this symptom frequently occurs in the morning or after sleeping.)

The process of diagnosing JIA often involves several steps, as symptoms may resemble those of other conditions.

A physical exam is typically the starting point, after which a doctor may recommend one or more of the following blood tests to confirm a diagnosis of JIA: 

Antibody tests such as the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test, which measures blood levels of antibodies linked to rheumatic disease

Tests that check for levels of red and white blood cells and platelets - lower levels of red and white blood cells may be indicative of JIA

An erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test, which examines how quickly your red blood cells sink to the bottom of a test tube - higher rates of settlement may indicate inflammation

A c-reactive protein (CRP) test, which identifies blood levels of CRP, an inflammation-linked protein produced in your liver

A creatinine test, which checks for kidney disease

A rheumatoid factor (RF) test, which checks for rheumatoid factor, an antibody found in about 80% of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis

Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and bone scans may also be used to support a JIA diagnosis.

Treatment for JIA encompasses medications, lifestyle changes, and physical and occupational therapy, with the goal of reducing symptoms and supporting an active life.

Individual treatment plans depend on a child’s symptoms, age, and overall health history.

The following types of medications may be included in a JIA treatment plan:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including ibuprofen (Advil®) and naproxen (Aleve®) may be used to reduce pain and inflammation during flare-ups. While these medications are available over the counter, your child may need a prescription for a higher dose.

Oral corticosteroids such as prednisone may also be used to reduce inflammation in children with JIA.

Disease-modifying antirheumatic medicines (DMARDs) such as methotrexate (Rheumatrex®) reduce the immune system’s response to triggers, easing inflammation and controlling JIA symptoms.

Injectable biologic DMARDs — which target more specific pathways in the immune system — are also used in the treatment of JIA, typically after other treatments have proven ineffective. Commonly prescribed biologics include abatacept (Orencia®), adalimumab (Humira®), canakinumab (Ilaris®), etanercept (Enbrel®) and tocilizumab (Actemra®).

Sugars, refined carbohydrates, and gluten can contribute to joint pain and inflammation, so it is often recommended for those with any type of arthritis to reduce their intake of these foods. With JIA, there is the additional consideration of incorporating nutrient-rich foods to support a child’s healthy growth and development. Consider speaking with a nutrition specialist to develop a balanced meal plan.

Regular physical activity is another component of managing JIA. Swimming and other water exercises, yoga, and cycling may be a good fit for children and adolescents with the condition. Physical therapy may be involved in treatment to help a child improve muscle and joint function. 

Lastly, it’s important for a child with JIA to get plenty of rest.

JIA is linked to eye inflammation, which can cause more serious eye problems later in life. Staying on track with regular eye exams can prevent and detect potential problems.

Life with juvenile idiopathic arthritis is easier with a reliable pharmacy partner by your side. Our pharmacists have specialized training in arthritis treatment and can answer any questions you may have, from medication side effects to navigating lifestyle changes.

In addition, we offer free, same-day delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our app to make it as simple as possible to stay on track with your treatment.

An asthma attack is an acute flare-up of symptoms defined by sudden shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. Managing asthma attacks includes both proactively responding to symptoms when they arise and staying on track with treatment in the long term. Learn more here.

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks | Alto Pharmacy

Many individuals with asthma are familiar with the experience of an asthma attack — an acute flare-up of symptoms defined by sudden shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. These exacerbations vary in intensity and require efficient and prompt treatment.

Management of asthma attacks is twofold. To immediately address symptoms in the moment, work with your provider to identify your asthma attack warning signs and establish a treatment strategy. In the longer term, identify and avoid triggers and stay on track with treatment, so as to reduce the frequency and intensity of these flare-ups.

Here’s more on recognizing, treating, and preventing asthma attacks.

Effective management of an asthma attack starts by recognizing the signs and symptoms and understanding what to do when they occur.

While individual experiences of an asthma attack may vary, these are some common signs and symptoms. Your doctor can help you in identifying your individual warning signs of an asthma attack.

The following symptoms of a severe asthma attack warrant immediate medical attention:

Severe breathlessness or wheezing, especially at night or in the early morning

Difficulty speaking due to shortness of breath

No improvement from quick-relief medication

Everyone with asthma should have an asthma action plan that documents their treatment needs, including what steps to take when asthma symptoms intensify. Work with your doctor to create your individual asthma action plan.

If and when you experience a flare-up of asthma symptoms, follow the steps in your treatment plan. If your PEF readings fall between 51% to 79% of your baseline, a common first step is to take quick-relief or “rescue” asthma medications.

These medications are taken on an as-needed basis, as prescribed by your doctor, and relax airway muscles to open the lungs. They relieve shortness of breath and wheezing within minutes and can stop an asthma attack in progress.

Common quick-relief asthma medications include:

Albuterol (ProAir® HFA, Proventil® HFA, and Ventolin® HFA)

Inhalers are the most common form of quick-relief asthma medications. Albuterol and levalbuterol are also available as a liquid solution for nebulizer use.

A quick-relief medication may sufficiently relieve symptoms and improve PEF readings. If symptoms do not improve, emergency medical care may be necessary. Your asthma action plan should help you determine when to seek emergency care.

In many cases, asthma attacks may be preventable. When followed on an ongoing basis, the steps below can help lower your chances of experiencing an asthma attack.

1. Follow your treatment plan and take maintenance medications as prescribed (if applicable).

Many individuals with moderate to severe asthma take long-term maintenance medication in addition to a quick-relief medication.

These medications ease inflammation in the airways, preventing exacerbations and controlling symptoms. You must take them as prescribed every day to experience their benefits.

There are two main types of long-term asthma control medications:

Inhaled corticosteroids including Flovent® HFA and Qvar Redihaler® 

Combination inhalers that contain both corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs) including fluticasone and salmeterol (Advair Diskus®); budesonide and formoterol (Symbicort®); mometasone and formoterol (Dulera®); and fluticasone and vilanterol (Breo Ellipta®)

Blog

How to Navigate Common IVF Side Effects

How to Have the Healthiest Pregnancy Possible

How to Manage an Overactive Thyroid

What to Know About Arthritis in Children

Treatment and Prevention of Asthma Attacks

Psoriasis, Explained

Endometriosis: A Leading and Treatable Cause of Female Infertility

How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

How Alto Lowers the Cost of Fertility Treatment Through Better Medication Management

Get to know Jake Moffatt, Engineering Manager on the Alto Assistant Team

Introducing Alto’s New CEO - Alicia Boler Davis

How We’re Making It Easier (and More Fun!) to Give Teammates Feedback

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