CONSIDERATIONS FOR INHALERS

Is your handheld inhaler the best treatment for your COPD?

Handheld inhalers are generally appropriate for most people with COPD. When starting treatment with an inhaler, a doctor or nurse will usually offer education and training for using that device. But even still—errors using handheld inhalers may be common.

It’s important to take your COPD medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Taking too much may lead to side effects. If you’re concerned that your inhaler may not be working for you, talk to your doctor.

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Are handheld inhalers the only treatment option for me?

Myth

"Handheld inhalers are the only treatment option for my COPD.”

Fact

There are many types of COPD treatment options to discuss with your doctor. Remember to take your COPD medicine as prescribed and follow your doctor's instructions for how to use it correctly. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have questions about using your inhaler or if you feel your symptoms are getting worse.

Your doctor may want to reassess A regular check-in with your doctor to find out if your COPD has changed since your last visit. your condition based on this information. There are several treatment options for COPD. You and your doctor should discuss appropriate options.

Learn about nebulized treatment for COPD
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Am I using my rescue inhaler too much?

Myth

“It is safe to use my rescue inhaler more often than prescribed.”

Fact

Using your rescue inhaler Short-acting medicine that is meant to relieve sudden symptoms. more than your doctor recommends may increase the risk of side effects, some which can be serious. If you are using your rescue inhaler more often than prescribed, talk to your doctor about reassessing A regular check-in with your doctor to find out if your COPD has changed since your last visit. your COPD and checking on how you use your inhaler.

  • If your COPD symptoms do not improve, consider discussing other appropriate treatment options, like a long-acting maintenance medicine Long-acting medicine taken every day that works over time to help control symptoms., with your doctor.
Learn about COPD treatment options
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Are handheld inhalers always easy to use?

myth

“Handheld inhalers are the only kind of COPD device that are always simple to use and will work for me.”

fact

Handheld inhalers aren’t always the simplest for people to use, because errors while using them may be common.

  • Across a number of different studies, it was found that 9 out of 10 people made at least 1 error consistently when using their inhaler

Handheld inhalers are generally effective when used as directed. When starting treatment with an inhaler, a doctor or nurse will likely train you on how to use it. But some people have reported having trouble using them correctly because of health issues, such as:

  • arthritis, which may affect their hands
  • confusion or memory loss as they age

It’s important to work with your doctor to find the type of COPD device that’s right for you.

Learn about COPD treatment options
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