Types Of Asthma Inhalers
Explore the different types of asthma inhalers, including rescue and maintenance options. Learn how each inhaler works, when to use them, and which might be best for managing your asthma symptoms effectively.
Feeling overwhelmed by the different types of asthma inhalers? You're not alone. With various colors, shapes, and names, it can be confusing to understand which one does what and why your doctor prescribed it. This guide is here to demystify your asthma treatment. We’ll break down the two main categories—quick-relief and long-term control—and explore the different devices, from the classic puffers to modern breath-activated options. Understanding your inhalers is the first step toward using them effectively and breathing easier. Whether you're newly diagnosed or looking for a refresher, this comprehensive overview will equip you with the knowledge to manage your asthma with confidence.
Why So Many Types?
The most crucial distinction between types of asthma inhalers isn't the device itself, but the medication inside and its purpose. Think of them in two main teams: the emergency responders and the daily protectors.
Quick-Relief Inhalers (Rescue Inhalers)
- These are your emergency responders. They contain fast-acting bronchodilators (usually SABAs like albuterol/salbutamol) that work within minutes to relax the muscles around your tightened airways. You use them when you experience sudden symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or during an asthma attack. They are not for daily scheduled use. If you find yourself using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week, it's a sign that your asthma is not well controlled, and you should consult a doctor. Common examples include ProAir HFA, Ventolin HFA, and Proventil HFA, often housed in blue canisters.
Long-Term Control Inhalers (Preventive Inhalers)
- These are your daily protectors. They contain corticosteroids (like fluticasone or budesonide) that reduce inflammation and sensitivity in your airways over time. Unlike rescue inhalers, they do not provide immediate relief. Instead, they work in the background to prevent symptoms and attacks from happening in the first place. You use them every day, even when you feel well. A common mistake is stopping these inhalers once symptoms improve, which can lead to a flare-up. Examples include Qvar Redihaler, Pulmicort Flexhaler, and Flovent HFA.
Combination Inhalers: Two-in-One Treatment
- For those with moderate to severe persistent asthma, doctors often prescribe combination inhalers. These contain both a long-acting bronchodilator (LABA) to keep airways open for 12+ hours and a corticosteroid to control inflammation. They are used daily for maintenance and are not for quick relief. Popular brands include Advair Diskus, Symbicort, and Dulera. Understanding the difference between these categories is the foundation of effective asthma management.
Breaking Down The Different Asthma Inhaler Devices
Now that we know what’s inside, let’s look at the how—the devices that deliver the medication.
1. Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs):
The MDI is the most recognizable type of asthma inhaler—the classic "puffer." It releases a specific, measured dose of medication in a fine aerosol spray. The challenge with MDIs is the required coordination: you must press the canister down while taking a slow, deep breath in. This is difficult for many, especially children and the elderly.
How to Use an MDI Without a Spacer
Shake the inhaler well.
- Breathe out fully away from the mouthpiece.
- Place the mouthpiece between your lips, forming a tight seal.
- As you start to breathe in slowly, press down on the canister.
- Continue to breathe in deeply over 3-5 seconds.
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.
How to Use an MDI With a Spacer
A spacer is a plastic chamber that attaches to the MDI. It holds the medication cloud so you can inhale it in your own time, eliminating the need for perfect coordination. It also ensures more medicine reaches your lungs instead of sticking to your mouth and throat. Doctors highly recommend spacers for almost all MDI users as they dramatically increase drug delivery and effectiveness.
Consult Top Specialists
2. Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs):
- Dry Powder Inhalers are breath-activated. Instead of a spray, they deliver medication in a dry powder form. To use them, you load a dose (by twisting, sliding, or inserting a capsule) and then take a fast, deep breath from the mouthpiece. The force of your inhalation pulls the powder into your airways. The key here is a rapid and forceful inhalation, which is the opposite of the MDI's slow and steady breath. This makes them unsuitable for very young children or anyone with significantly low lung strength during an attack. Examples include Advair Diskus, Spiriva HandiHaler, and Breo Ellipta.
3. Soft Mist Inhalers (SMIs):
- SMIs, like the Spiriva Respimat, are a newer type of propellant-free inhaler. They create a slow-moving, long-lasting soft mist that is easier to inhale than the quick spray of an MDI. This gives the user more time to coordinate their breath and can lead to more medication reaching the lungs. They are multidose devices that are primed by twisting a base.
4. Nebulizers:
- Nebulizers are electric or battery-powered machines that convert liquid medication into a fine mist you breathe in through a mouthpiece or mask over 10-15 minutes. They require no coordination and are ideal for infants, young children, the elderly, or anyone experiencing a severe asthma attack where using a handheld inhaler is impossible. While highly effective, they are less portable and convenient than MDIs or DPIs.
How to Choose the Right Inhaler for You?
You don't choose your inhaler—your doctor does based on a careful assessment of your individual needs. The choice depends on several factors: your age, the severity and frequency of your symptoms, your hand-breath coordination, your peak flow readings, and even your personal preference and lifestyle. A young athlete might benefit from a quick DPI they can carry easily, while a young child will likely use an MDI with a spacer and mask. Your doctor will create a personalized asthma action plan that specifies which inhalers to use and when. If your current inhaler is difficult to use or isn't providing relief, consult a doctor online with Apollo24|7 to discuss alternatives. They can review your technique and adjust your prescription for better control.
Common Mistakes and How to Use Your Inhaler Correctly
Studies show that up to 90% of people use their inhalers incorrectly, drastically reducing the dose that reaches their lungs. Common errors include:
- Not shaking an MDI before use.
- Forgetting to exhale fully before inhaling the dose.
- Inhaling too quickly or too slowly for the device type.
- Not holding your breath after inhalation.
- Failing to rinse your mouth after using a steroid-based preventer inhaler to prevent thrush (a fungal infection).
The single most important thing you can do is have your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist watch you use your inhaler at every visit to check your technique. A proper inhaler technique is as important as the medication itself.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of asthma inhalers can seem complex, but understanding the basic roles of relievers versus preventers and the different devices available empowers you to take an active role in your health. Remember, the most expensive inhaler is useless without the correct technique, so regularly review how you use yours with a healthcare professional. Asthma is a manageable condition, and the right inhaler used correctly is your key to living a full, active life without limitations. If you have any doubts about your diagnosis, prescription, or technique, booking a physical visit to a doctor with Apollo24|7 can provide the personalized guidance you need to breathe easier. Take control of your asthma today.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr Rakesh Bilagi
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
10 Years • MBBS MD PULMONOLOGIST
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Vishwa Vijeth K.
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Respiratory Medicine)
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr. Preeti Kathail
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MBBS, PGDHHM
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Varun Rajpal
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory Medicine, EDARM, IDCCM,FCCS,FSM, Certificate course in Diabetes.
Noida
DR. VARUN RAJPAL Lungs And Respiratory Care clinic., Noida
Dr. Suresh G
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, MD
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
Consult Top Specialists
Dr Rakesh Bilagi
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
10 Years • MBBS MD PULMONOLOGIST
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr Vishwa Vijeth K.
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD ( Respiratory Medicine)
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
Dr. Preeti Kathail
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
17 Years • MBBS, PGDHHM
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Varun Rajpal
Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB Respiratory Medicine, EDARM, IDCCM,FCCS,FSM, Certificate course in Diabetes.
Noida
DR. VARUN RAJPAL Lungs And Respiratory Care clinic., Noida
Dr. Suresh G
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
25 Years • MBBS, MD
Bangalore
Apollo Clinic Bellandur, Bangalore
(225+ Patients)
More articles from Asthma
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most commonly prescribed inhaler for asthma?
There isn't a single 'most common' inhaler, as prescriptions are highly individualized. However, most asthma patients will be prescribed a quick-relief inhaler (like albuterol) for emergencies. Many will also be on a daily preventive inhaler, with combination inhalers being common for moderate persistent asthma.
How do I know if I'm using my dry powder inhaler correctly?
The key sign you're using a dry powder inhaler correctly is that you will taste or sense the powder being pulled into your mouth and lungs. You must take a rapid, deep, and forceful breath to activate it. If you don't feel or taste anything, you may not be inhaling strongly or correctly. The best way to know is to demonstrate your technique for your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I overuse my rescue inhaler?
Yes, you can and should avoid overusing your rescue inhaler. It is designed for occasional symptom relief. Needing it more than twice a week is a red flag that your asthma is not under control and your preventive therapy needs to be reassessed. Overuse can also lead to side effects like jitters, a rapid heart rate, and reduced effectiveness over time.
Why do I need to rinse my mouth after using my inhaler?
This is crucial after using corticosteroid-based preventer inhalers. Rinsing your mouth with water (and spitting it out) helps to wash away any leftover steroid medication that can cause side effects like hoarseness, oral thrush (a white fungal infection in the mouth), and a cough.
What is the difference between an inhaler and a nebulizer?
An inhaler is a small, handheld, portable device that delivers a single dose of medication quickly. A nebulizer is a larger, electric-powered machine that turns liquid medicine into a mist for you to breathe in over a longer period (10-15 minutes). Nebulizers are often used for severe attacks or for those who cannot use handheld inhalers effectively.