When you’re newly diagnosed with asthma, understanding your medications and how to use them correctly is essential for managing your condition effectively. This guide will help you navigate the different types of asthma medications and delivery devices to keep your airways clear and your breathing comfortable.
Types of Asthma Medications
Asthma medications generally fall into two main categories: controllers and relievers. Understanding the difference is crucial for proper management.
Controller Medications (Preventers)
These medications work over time to reduce airway inflammation and prevent asthma symptoms. They should be taken regularly, even when you feel well:
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS): The most effective anti-inflammatory medications for asthma. Examples include fluticasone (Flovent), budesonide (Pulmicort), and beclomethasone (QVAR).
Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs): These relax the muscles around your airways for up to 12 hours. They include salmeterol (Serevent) and formoterol (Foradil). LABAs should always be used with an inhaled corticosteroid.
Combination inhalers: Contain both an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist. Examples include fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair) and budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort).
Leukotriene modifiers: Oral medications that block chemicals that cause airway inflammation. Montelukast (Singulair) is a common example.
Biologics: Newer injectable medications for severe asthma that target specific pathways causing inflammation. These include omalizumab (Xolair), mepolizumab (Nucala), and others.
Reliever Medications (Rescue Medications)
These provide quick relief during an asthma attack or before exercise:
Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs): Work quickly to relax airway muscles and ease breathing within minutes. Albuterol (ProAir, Ventolin) is the most common.
Anticholinergics: Another type of bronchodilator that can be used for quick relief, such as ipratropium (Atrovent).
Common Delivery Devices
Asthma medications are delivered through various devices. Using them correctly ensures the medicine reaches your lungs where it’s needed.
Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs)
These small, pressurized canisters deliver a precise dose of medication when pressed:
How to use an MDI:
- Remove the cap and shake the inhaler
- Breathe out completely
- Position the inhaler 1-2 inches from your open mouth or place it between your lips
- Start to breathe in slowly, then press down on the inhaler once
- Continue to breathe in slowly and deeply
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then breathe out slowly
Common mistakes: Breathing too quickly, not shaking the inhaler, or not coordinating breathing with pressing the inhaler.
Spacers and Valved Holding Chambers
These devices attach to an MDI to make it easier to use:
- They hold the medication in a chamber so you can breathe it in more slowly
- They’re especially helpful for children and older adults
- They improve medication delivery to the lungs
Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs)
These deliver medication as a dry powder when you breathe in:
- No propellant is used
- Require a quick, deep breath to activate
- Examples include Diskus, Turbuhaler, and Ellipta devices
Nebulizers
These machines turn liquid medicine into a fine mist that you breathe through a mask or mouthpiece:
- Useful for young children, older adults, or during severe attacks
- Take longer to deliver medication (10-15 minutes)
- Require minimal coordination
Proper Technique Matters
Studies show that up to 90% of people use their inhalers incorrectly, which means they’re not getting the full benefit of their medication. Common issues include:
- Not breathing out completely before inhaling the medication
- Breathing in too quickly with an MDI
- Not breathing in forcefully enough with a DPI
- Poor coordination between pressing and breathing with an MDI
- Not holding breath long enough after inhaling
Medication Schedules and Adherence Tips
Consistency is key to managing asthma effectively:
- Take controller medications at the same time each day
- Link medication use to daily routines like brushing teeth
- Use pill organizers or smartphone reminders
- Keep a backup inhaler in important locations
- Check how much medication remains in your devices
- Refill prescriptions before they run out
Side Effects and Concerns
Most asthma medications are safe when used as directed, but they can have side effects:
Inhaled corticosteroids: May cause throat irritation, hoarseness, or oral thrush. Rinsing your mouth after use helps prevent these issues.
Beta-agonists: May cause increased heart rate, tremors, or nervousness.
Leukotriene modifiers: Rarely associated with mood changes or behavioral issues.
Always discuss concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider rather than stopping medication on your own.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Reach out to your provider if:
- You’re using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week
- You wake up at night with asthma symptoms more than twice a month
- You’re refilling your rescue inhaler more than twice a year
- You’re unsure about how to use your devices properly
Remember, proper use of your medications and devices is essential for controlling your asthma and maintaining your quality of life. Ask your healthcare provider for a device technique check at your next appointment to ensure you’re getting the full benefit of your medications.