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Asthma inhalers: Which one's right for you?
Comparing inhaler types
Content
Metered dose inhalers
Dry powder inhaler
Soft mist inhaler
Other devices
Comparing inhaler types
Choosing the asthma inhaler that best meets your needs depends on several factors, including method of delivery and the type of medication you need. Some medications are available only with certain inhaler types. The chart below can help you understand the pros and cons of each type.
| Metered dose inhaler | Metered dose inhaler with a spacer | Dry powder inhaler |
|---|---|---|
| Small and convenient to carry. | Less convenient to carry than a metered dose inhaler without a spacer. | Small and convenient to carry. |
| Doesn't require a deep, fast, inhaled breath. | Doesn't require a deep, fast, inhaled breath. | Requires a deep, fast, inhaled breath. |
| Accidently breathing out a little isn't a problem. | Accidently breathing out a little isn't a problem. | Accidently breathing out a little can blow away the medication. |
| Some inhalers require coordinating your breath with medication release. | A spacer makes it easier to coordinate your breath with medication release. | Doesn't require coordinating your breath with medication release. |
| Can result in medication on the back of your throat and tongue. | Less medication settles on the back of your throat and tongue. | Can result in medication on the back of your throat and tongue. |
| Some models don't show how many doses remain. | Some models don't show how many doses remain. | It's clear when the device is running out of medication. |
| Requires shaking and priming. | Requires shaking and priming and correct use of the spacer. | Single-dose models require loading capsules for each use. |
| Humidity doesn't affect medication. | Humidity doesn't affect medication. | High humidity can cause medication to clump. |
| Use of a cocking device generally isn't necessary. | Use of a cocking device generally isn't necessary. | May require dexterity to use a cocking device. |
