Asthma Inhalers Central

This might be shocking for some asthmatics — yours truly included.

As someone who’s been using metered-dose inhalers for most of my life (beginning with my pediatrician’s prescription way way back), I was kind of dumbfounded to know that I could’ve used, let’s say, a dry powder inhaler just as well!

This in-Pharma Technologist article says that new asthma treatment guidelines have concluded that there are no significant differences between the various types of asthma inhalers. Take note of this, folks — it’s all in the proper usage.

They conclude that doctors should not consider the type of device in prescribing decisions but focus instead on other issues, including device availability; cost; convenience; and the patient’s age, competence in using the device, and preference.

Another good point:

“Although there are advantages and disadvantages associated with each device and medication, when used properly, all aerosol devices can work equally well and can be interchanged,” said guidelines chair Myrna Dolovich of McMaster University in Canada.

So, inhaler usage, not type, is king. If you need help in using your inhalers, do read the previous articles here at AIC (how to use metered-dose inhalers, how to use dry powder inhalers). Read the entire article here.