Asthma inhalers: what they do and how to use them

If you use an inhaler, you want one that works when you need it. This quick guide explains common asthma inhalers, how they differ, and simple steps to get the medicine into your lungs reliably. No fluff — just practical tips you can use today.

Types of asthma inhalers

There are three main roles for inhalers: rescue, controller and combination. Rescue inhalers (short-acting beta agonists like albuterol — brand names Ventolin or ProAir) stop sudden wheeze or tightness fast. Controller inhalers contain steroids (like fluticasone or budesonide) and reduce inflammation when used daily. Combination inhalers pair a steroid with a long-acting bronchodilator (examples: Symbicort, Advair) to prevent symptoms over time. Some patients also use LAMA inhalers (tiotropium) or nebulized treatments for certain cases.

Delivery formats matter too. Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) spray medication and often need a spacer. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) require a strong, quick breath in. Nebulizers turn medicine into a mist you breathe through a mask or mouthpiece — useful for young children or during bad attacks.

How to use an inhaler correctly

Technique makes the difference. For an MDI: shake it, breathe out, put the mouthpiece in your mouth (or use a spacer), press the canister as you start a slow deep breath, then hold your breath for 5–10 seconds before exhaling. With a DPI: exhale away from the device, inhale quickly and deeply through the mouthpiece, then hold your breath. Never exhale into a DPI — it can ruin the dose.

If you use a spacer, you don’t need perfect timing. Put two puffs into the spacer, then take 3–4 slow breaths from it. Spacers reduce throat irritation and send more drug to the lungs.

Simple maintenance: check the dose counter or keep track of doses; clean the mouthpiece weekly with warm water; store inhalers at room temperature away from heat. Replace them after the expiry date or when the counter hits zero.

Know when your asthma is not controlled: needing a rescue inhaler more than twice a week (not counting exercise prevention) or waking at night with symptoms signals a review is needed. If rescue inhalers don’t help during an attack, seek emergency care.

Side effects are usually mild — throat irritation, hoarseness, or a fast heartbeat after a rescue puff. Rinse your mouth after steroid inhalers to cut the risk of thrush. Talk with your prescriber if side effects bother you or if you need more than occasional rescue use.

Final practical tip: take a photo of your inhalers and their labels, keep a spare at work or school, and bring inhalers to every doctor visit. Good technique plus the right inhaler equals fewer symptoms and fewer surprises.