Asthma inhalers: how to pick one and use it right

Poor inhaler technique is one of the main reasons people still end up in the ER. This page gives clear, practical advice about the main kinds of inhalers, how to use them so the medicine actually reaches your lungs, simple safety tips, and signs that you need urgent care. No fluff—just what works.

There are two big categories: rescue inhalers and controller inhalers. Rescue inhalers (short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol/salbutamol) stop sudden wheeze and shortness of breath. Controller inhalers reduce inflammation over time and are taken every day—these often contain inhaled steroids (like budesonide) or steroid-plus-long-acting bronchodilator combos. Other devices include dry powder inhalers, soft-mist inhalers, and nebulizers for people who need larger doses or have trouble with handheld devices.

Quick inhaler technique that actually works

Metered-dose inhaler (MDI) steps: 1) Shake the canister and remove the cap. 2) Breathe out fully. 3) Put the mouthpiece between your teeth and seal your lips. 4) Start a slow, deep inhale and press the canister once. 5) Keep breathing in slowly, then hold your breath for about 10 seconds. 6) Wait 30–60 seconds between puffs if more than one is needed. Using a spacer makes this far easier—spacers cut down on throat spray and improve lung delivery, especially for kids and older adults.

Dry powder inhalers (DPI) work differently: you don’t shake them. Load the dose, exhale away from the device, then inhale quickly and deeply to pull the powder into the lungs. Don’t breathe back into a DPI mouthpiece. For any inhaler, practice in front of a nurse or pharmacist at least once—hands-on coaching fixes most mistakes.

Choosing the right inhaler and safety tips

Your doctor will match the device and drug to how often you have symptoms, your age, and your ability to use the device. Simple rules: use a spacer for steroid MDIs if you can, rinse your mouth after steroid inhalers to reduce thrush risk, and carry your rescue inhaler at all times. Watch for side effects: tremor or jitter after rescue puffs, and sore throat or oral thrush after steroid use. Most side effects are manageable—talk to your provider if they bother you.

Check the dose counter or mark the calendar when you open a new inhaler. Store inhalers at room temperature and avoid leaving them in a hot car. Replace expired or empty inhalers immediately. If you need more than two rescue inhaler uses in a week, or if symptoms don’t improve after several puffs, contact your healthcare provider—these are signs your asthma plan needs updating.

Practice technique, keep an action plan, and get a quick review from a clinician yearly or after any flare-up. If you want step-by-step guides or product comparisons, search the site for articles and how-to videos that walk you through each device.