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Asthma Medications

Important Tip On MDIs
Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) do not usually have a counter to help you keep track of how many doses are left. Keep a card or something handy to jot down how many times you have used it, so you will not run out without having another MDI with you.
Medications will be a key part of your asthma plan. It is important to understand the two basic types of medications, and to know the names of the medicines you take in case you need help in an emergency.

  • Long-term control or maintenance medications are the ones you take daily or on a schedule. These include some inhalers and pills.  
  • Quick-Relief or rescue medications relax the muscles that may be tightened around your airways. Keep an inhaler with you at all times, even when you are not having a problem.


What your medicine can do. And what it can't.
Your maintenance and quick-relief medications have different jobs to do. Knowing the difference will help you avoid problems. When your doctor prescribes any drug for asthma, ask which type the drug is and when you will use it.
  • Maintenance medications prevent or reduce attacks. They cannot stop an attack once it begins.
  • Quick-Relief medications are only for use when you need them. Using these more than two times in a week means it is time to talk to your doctor about your other drugs.


About inhalers
It is not difficult to use inhalers, but they have to be used and cared for in the right ways. There are two types of inhalers:
  • Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) make a liquid spray. Sometimes, these inhalers are used with a tube called a spacer to help you get the drug into your lungs. If there is no spacer, you will have to pay special attention to aim the inhaler correctly. You will get instructions on how to use it, but here is a tip: hold your breath to the count of ten before exhaling.
  • Dry-Powder inhalers (DPIs) blow a powder into your lungs. Once again, it is important to hold your breath to the count of ten to give the medicine time to be absorbed. This type of inhaler usually has a counter so it is easier to keep track of how many times you have used it.
  • Nebulizers turn medicine into a fine mist. These are not usually as portable as other inhalers. With a mouthpiece or mask, you need to inhale the drug for several minutes to get all the medication. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to use it properly.


When is it time for a change?
It is up to you to keep track of how well your medicines are working. Here are two questions to ask yourself:

  • Do you use your quick-relief medication more than twice a week?
  • Does asthma wake you up more than two times a month?
Answering "yes" to either question will give you and your doctor clues about when you need to change the drugs you use. It may also mean the doctor needs to consider adjusting the doses you are using.


Last modified 04/22/08