Asthma Inhalers: Types, How to Use, and Buying Tips

Asthma inhalers deliver medicine straight to your lungs, which makes them fast and effective. Picking the right inhaler and using it properly can cut attacks, reduce daily symptoms, and keep you active. This guide boils down the essentials—what inhalers do, how to use them without mistakes, and smart tips for buying and care.

Types of inhalers and how they work

There are two ways to think about inhalers: the medicine they hold and the device that delivers it. For medicine, you usually see "relievers" that act fast to open airways, and "controllers" that lower inflammation when used regularly. Some inhalers combine both.

For devices, the common ones are: metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) that spray a measured puff, dry powder inhalers (DPIs) that release powder when you inhale sharply, soft-mist inhalers that make a slow mist, and nebulizers that turn liquid medicine into a mist you breathe in. Your age, breathing ability, and coordination affect which device fits you best.

How to use your inhaler correctly

MDI steps: shake the inhaler, breathe out fully, put the mouthpiece in your mouth, press the canister and inhale slowly, hold your breath for 5–10 seconds, then breathe out. If you struggle with timing, ask for a spacer — it makes MDIs easier and more reliable.

DPI steps: load the dose if needed, breathe out away from the mouthpiece, seal your lips around it, then inhale quickly and deeply. DPIs need a strong breath to work well, so they can be harder for young children or during severe flare-ups.

Common mistakes: not shaking MDIs, inhaling too fast with MDIs, not inhaling hard enough with DPIs, or skipping a spacer. If an inhaler doesn’t feel right, talk to your clinician about a device change and get a quick demonstration.

Small habits matter: check dose counters, keep backup inhalers, and replace inhalers past their expiry date. Clean the mouthpiece weekly with warm water and let it dry fully. Store inhalers away from extreme heat or cold—medicine can break down.

If you need to buy inhalers online, always keep safety first: only use licensed pharmacies, keep your prescription handy, and avoid offers that seem too cheap or don’t require a prescription. We have a guide on getting Symbicort prescriptions online if you want practical steps, but don’t skip a doctor’s visit if your symptoms change.

Want a quick check? Ask your provider to watch you use your inhaler once a year, carry a reliever, and write down the inhaler name and dose on your action plan. Small fixes in technique or device choice often make a big difference in how well your asthma is controlled.