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Some asthma inhalers combine two preventive medicines. The idea is that the combined inhaler reduces inflammation in the lungs and also keeps the airways open. These inhalers should be used regularly even when there are no symptoms of asthma. However, you still need to carry a reliever in case an asthma attack occurs.
One of the medicines in this type of inhaler is a corticosteroid. This is used to decrease inflammation in the lungs. By preventing inflammation in the lungs and mucous blockage, the corticosteroid works to prevent an asthma attack.
The second type of medicine in the inhaler is a long-acting beta 2 agonist or bronchodilator. This acts on the beta 2 receptors in the lungs, which causes the muscles in the airways to relax. This means that the airways open up, allowing the free passage of air. Long acting beta 2 agonists prevent shortness of breath. Short acting beta 2 agonists are used to treat shortness of breath when it occurs.
These combined inhalers were developed with the aim of simplifying asthma control. By putting two preventive medicines in one inhaler, prevention of asthma attacks can be simplified. Combined inhalers are particularly useful in people whose asthma is not well controlled. They are also helpful for people who already use a corticosteroid inhaler and a long-acting bronchodilator inhaler.
Combined inhalers available in Ireland include the Seretide Evohaler, Seretide Diskus and the Symbicort Turbohaler.
For more information, contact the Asthma Society of Ireland on freephone, 1850 44 54 64.
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