Respiratory Medications
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common chronic respiratory conditions. Treatment is led by a clinician and may include short and long-acting bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene antagonists and inhaler training.
Overview
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways characterised by reversible bronchoconstriction, hyperresponsiveness and recurrent symptoms of wheezing, cough and breathlessness. COPD is a progressive disease typically caused by long-term smoke or particle exposure, with chronic airflow limitation that is only partially reversible. According to international epidemiological surveys, asthma affects more than 300 million people worldwide and COPD is among the leading causes of mortality globally. Diagnosis combines symptom history with spirometry.
Common treatments
Asthma is treated with short-acting beta-2 agonists for relief, combined with controller medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-2 agonists, long-acting muscarinic antagonists or leukotriene receptor antagonists. COPD treatment is centred on long-acting bronchodilators, with inhaled corticosteroids reserved for selected phenotypes. Both conditions benefit from smoking cessation, vaccination, structured exercise and inhaler-technique education. According to current guidelines, oral corticosteroids and antibiotics are used for acute exacerbations.
When to consult
A medical evaluation is recommended whenever respiratory symptoms persist, recur or worsen despite over-the-counter measures, particularly when associated with night-time waking, exercise limitation or peak-flow variability. Acute breathlessness with cyanosis, chest pain or confusion requires emergency care. According to clinical guidelines, the first consultation should explore environmental triggers, smoking history, allergies and family background. Self-medication with online inhalers is discouraged because it bypasses spirometric assessment and inhaler training.
Medications
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a reliever and a controller inhaler? ▾
Reliever inhalers provide rapid bronchodilation for symptomatic relief and typically contain a short-acting beta-2 agonist or, in some current asthma regimens, a low-dose inhaled corticosteroid combined with a fast-acting beta-2 agonist. Controller inhalers reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms over time, with regular daily use; they include inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators. According to international guidelines, controller therapy is recommended in nearly all adults with persistent asthma.
Are inhaled corticosteroids safe long-term? ▾
Inhaled corticosteroids are the cornerstone of asthma maintenance therapy and are well tolerated at recommended doses. Local effects include oral candidiasis and dysphonia, mostly preventable by rinsing the mouth after use and using a spacer. High-dose long-term use can have systemic effects on bone density, glucose metabolism and adrenal function. According to the prescribing information, the lowest effective dose should be reviewed periodically by the prescriber.
Are short-acting bronchodilators sufficient for asthma? ▾
Treating asthma only with short-acting bronchodilators is no longer recommended in most international guidelines, because frequent need indicates uncontrolled inflammation and is associated with severe exacerbations and mortality. Modern asthma management always includes a controller, often as a combination inhaler. According to current guidelines, isolated short-acting beta-2 agonist therapy should be re-evaluated by the prescriber.
How important is inhaler technique? ▾
Correct inhaler technique is essential to deposit the medication in the lungs rather than the mouth and pharynx. Studies consistently show that more than half of patients use inhalers incorrectly, which reduces clinical effect and increases local side effects. According to clinical guidelines, technique should be assessed at every relevant consultation, with training and use of spacers when appropriate. Incorrect technique can simulate treatment failure.
Is online purchase of respiratory inhalers safe? ▾
Buying respiratory inhalers from unverified online sources is associated with documented risks: counterfeit devices, inappropriate strengths, undeclared ingredients and lack of inhaler training. Cold-chain or storage requirements may also be unmet. Regulatory agencies recommend purchasing only from licensed pharmacies and only after evaluation by a qualified clinician, who can also verify spirometry, comorbidities and inhaler technique.
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.