Asthma Inhalers

Understanding the Color Coding of Asthma Inhalers

The color coding of inhalers for asthma isn't standardized globally, making it crucial to understand some of the common types to assist in managing your asthma routine effectively. In an emergency situation, recognizing the right color inhaler can be life-saving. However, due to inconsistencies in color standardization, it's important to always verify the label before use.

Inhaler Types and Their Common Colors

Here's what you need to know about the different types of inhalers and their frequently associated colors:

• Blue: Commonly used for “reliever” or “rescue” inhalers, blue-colored inhalers contain short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs), such as albuterol, which quickly relaxes the respiratory muscles. They are designed to provide rapid relief during an asthma attack and are commonly prescribed to people with asthma.

• Brown: This color is typically associated with “preventer” or “controller” inhalers, containing corticosteroids that gradually reduce inflammation in the respiratory system over time. They are used regularly to prevent and gradually improve asthma symptoms. They, however, are not recommended for use during an asthma attack.

• Green: Often used for long-acting bronchodilator inhalers, green inhalers help manage chronic airway conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They are not intended for treating acute or emergency symptoms.

• Orange or Yellow: These inhalers tend to be preventer/controller inhalers, similar to the brown ones, but may sometimes be reliever/rescue inhalers. Always make sure to read the label before use.

• Red, Pink, or Purple:  These colors often indicate a combination of preventer/controller and reliever/rescue medication, providing both quick emergency relief and long-term care.

Safety Concerns About Inhaler Sharing

Safety experts always discourage sharing inhalers due to the risk of cross-contamination, dosage issues, and medication issues. Inhalers are designed for single-person use and taking the wrong medication or dosage can be harmful, and even dangerous. It's always best to use an inhaler prescribed specifically for you by a doctor.

Additional Asthma Treatments

Aside from inhalers, there are numerous ways to effectively manage asthma:

• Use of biologics for severe symptoms

• Bronchial thermoplasty to reduce airway tightening

• Allergy shots to reduce immune system reactions to triggers

• Tracking and avoiding triggers

• Stress management techniques such as meditation and breathwork to reduce flare-ups

• Regular exercise to mitigate risk of breathing problems

• A healthy diet for respiratory health

• Smoking cessation to alleviate asthma symptoms

• Weight management to minimize asthma symptoms

• Oxygen therapy for emergency situations

Conclusion

While blue is typically associated with reliever/rescue inhalers and brown with preventer/controller inhalers, this isn't always the case. Always read instructions carefully and know which inhaler to use during different circumstances. It's also crucial to have your own prescribed inhaler ready for use and to avoid sharing it with others.