Asthma & COPD Inhalers: Which One Do You Need and How to Use It Correctly

Asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) are among the most common respiratory conditions managed at Advantixx Pharmacy in Las Vegas. Both conditions rely heavily on inhaled medications — but studies consistently show that up to 70–80% of patients use their inhalers incorrectly, significantly reducing their effectiveness. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Types of Inhalers: Understanding the Difference

Short-Acting Beta-Agonists (SABAs) — Rescue Inhalers

Examples: Albuterol (ProAir, Ventolin, Proventil), Levalbuterol (Xopenex). These are your "rescue" inhalers — used when you have sudden shortness of breath, wheezing, or an asthma attack. They work within minutes by relaxing the muscles around the airways. They should NOT be used as daily maintenance medications. If you're using your rescue inhaler more than twice a week, your asthma is not well-controlled and you should speak with your doctor.

Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS) — Controller Medications

Examples: Fluticasone (Flovent), Budesonide (Pulmicort), Beclomethasone (QVAR). These are the most effective long-term controller medications for asthma. They reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms. They do NOT work immediately — they must be taken daily, even when you feel fine. Rinsing your mouth after use prevents oral thrush (a fungal infection).

Long-Acting Beta-Agonists (LABAs)

Examples: Salmeterol (Serevent), Formoterol (Foradil). LABAs are bronchodilators that last 12 hours. They are NEVER used alone for asthma — always in combination with an ICS. Common combination products include Advair (fluticasone/salmeterol) and Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol).

Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists (LAMAs) — Primarily for COPD

Examples: Tiotropium (Spiriva), Umeclidinium (Incruse). LAMAs are the cornerstone of COPD maintenance therapy. They work by blocking muscarinic receptors in the airways, causing bronchodilation. They are taken once daily and provide 24-hour coverage.

Correct Inhaler Technique: Step by Step

• Shake the MDI (metered-dose inhaler) vigorously for 5 seconds
• Breathe out fully before placing the inhaler in your mouth
• Press down on the canister as you begin to breathe in slowly
• Breathe in slowly and deeply over 3–5 seconds
• Hold your breath for 10 seconds to allow medication to deposit
• Wait 30–60 seconds between puffs if a second dose is needed
• Use a spacer device — it improves drug delivery by up to 50%

Spacers: The Most Underused Inhaler Accessory

A spacer (also called a valved holding chamber) attaches to your MDI and holds the medication cloud so you can inhale it more slowly and completely. Studies show spacers increase lung deposition of medication by 30–50% and are especially important for children, elderly patients, and anyone who struggles with coordination. Ask your Advantixx pharmacist about spacers — we carry them and can show you exactly how to use one.

Nebulizers: When Inhalers Aren't Enough

Nebulizers convert liquid medication into a fine mist that can be inhaled over 5–15 minutes. They are used for severe asthma attacks, young children who can't use inhalers, and COPD patients with severe disease. Advantixx Pharmacy carries nebulizer medications and can help you obtain a nebulizer machine through your insurance.

Need help with your inhaler technique or have questions about your respiratory medications? Call Advantixx Pharmacy at 702.665.8797 or stop by our Las Vegas location. We offer free inhaler technique reviews.