Medical Health Encyclopedia

Breath-Actuated Inhalers. Breath-actuated rotary inhalers (e.g., Easi-Breathe and Autohaler) deliver the drug directly to the back of the throat as the user inhales. Their primary advantage over the MDI is their ease of use. They also do not use CFCs as propellants. In comparison studies, patients have been very successful with the breath-actuated inhalers.

Dry Powder Inhalers. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) deliver a powdered form of beta2 agonists or corticosteroids directly into the lungs. They also do not used CFCs. Such devices include Rotahaler, Spinhaler, Turbohaler, Clickhaler, Easyhaler, Diskhaler, Discus, Twisthaler, Spiros, and others. DPIs are as effective as the older devices, and generally have a better taste and are easier to manage. They may differ among themselves, however, in their ability to deliver drugs into the airways. In one study, for example, the Turbohaler was easier to use than the Diskhaler and so achieved better delivery. The Discus is another effective DPI; it has a dose counter and protects against exhalation effects. More research is needed.

Humidity or extreme temperatures can effect their performance, so they should not be stored in humid places (e.g., bathroom cabinets) or locations subject to high temperatures (e.g., glove compartments during summer months).

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Other Hand-Held Inhalers. Respimat delivers a fine-mist spray that is created by forcing the liquid medication through nozzles. It does not use any propellant.

Nebulizers. A nebulizer is a device that administers the drug in a fine spray that the patient breathes in. They are often used in hospital settings or when the patient cannot use an inhaler. Nebulizers may be important for delivering newer agents used in asthma treatment.