Aerosol Inhalers - Pressurized metered dose inhaler is a canister filled with asthma medication suspended in a propellant. When the canister is pushed down, a measured dose of the medication is pushed out as you breathe it in. Pressurized metered dose inhalers are commonly called "puffers".
Metered dose inhalers - These inhalers use a chemical propellant to force a measured dose of medication out of the inhaler. They consist of a pressurized canister containing medication, a mouthpiece and a metering valve that dispenses the correct dose of medication. The medication is released either by squeezing the canister or by inhaling. You may find it easier to use a hand-actuated inhaler with a spacer — a short tube that attaches to the inhaler. Using a hand-actuated inhaler to release the medication into the chamber gives you time to inhale more slowly. It decreases the amount of medicine that's deposited on the back of your throat and increases the amount that ultimately reaches your lungs. This is one of the best asthma inhalers
Dry powder inhalers - These inhalers don't use a chemical propellant to push the medication out of the inhaler. Instead, the medication is released by your inhaling more rapidly than you would with a traditional metered-dose inhaler.
Bronchodilator asthma inhalers - Bronchodilator asthma inhalers are either short-acting or long-acting. They are used to ease asthma symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Inhaled bronchodilators dilate or widen the airways, which helps relieve asthma symptoms much faster than oral medications. Bronchodilator drugs used in asthma inhalers include:Short-acting beta-agonists including albuterol (Proventil HFA, Ventolin HFA, AccuNeb), Alupent, Maxair, Xopenex. This is one of the useful asthma inhalers.
Beta2 agonists - These work by copying the effects of natural substances - adrenaline and noradrenaline - produced in the body. These substances are chemical messengers that the body produces as part of the "fight or flight" reaction. They prepare the body for exercise or a stressful situation. One of their effects is to open up the airways (bronchodilation) so that more air can reach the lungs.
Inhaled corticosteroids - are the most effective means of controlling asthma and are the usual type of drug given in the routine anti-inflammatory management of moderate asthma. In the usual doses given they NEVER cause the long list of side effects that accompany use of corticosteroid tablets or injections. The only side effect to be concerned about with approved doses is Candida (thrush) in the throat, a problem that is usually prevented by rinsing the mouth with water after each dose. They are safe!
Spacers are specially designed plastic or metal tubes that fit an inhaler on one end, while the patient breathes normally on the other end. Some spacers utilize a collapsing bag design to provide visual feedback that successful inspiration is taking place.
Comparing inhaler - Choosing the right kind of inhaler for you depends on several factors, such as your hand-breath coordination, your dexterity, whether you can take a deep, fast breath, and what types of medication you need. The chart below can help you understand the pros and cons of each type. Work with your doctor to find the best inhaler for your needs.
