Which inhaler is best for you ?
Welcome to the world of inhalers, where there are two common types. Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) and Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs). These have unique pros and cons for your asthma. Let's explore what sets them apart and why making an informed choice matters.
What's the difference? - MDIs vs. DPIs
Both MDIs and DPIs can contain the same life-changing medicines. The way they get the medicine into your lungs is different. MDIs rely on a gas or propellant, while DPIs skip the need for these propellants. Not needing propellants makes them an eco-friendly option.
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Why Choose Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs)?
Preference and Evidence
Research shows that people generally prefer DPI inhalers. Often finding them easier and more convenient. Choosing a device that suits you, will improve your treatment.1
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Spacer-Free Experience:
Unlike MDIs, DPIs don't require a spacer for optimal performance. Spacers help get the medicine into your lungs when using MDI inhalers. DPIs don't require them, making it more simple. One less thing to forget and less plastic use as well.
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Mastering the Technique
DPIs often offer a more simple technique. Coordinating breathing with inhaler puffs can be a challenge with MDIs for some. This is not necessary with DPI's, making them a user-friendly choice. Follow this link for further information about inhaler technique.
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Dose Counter Convenience
Nearly all DPIs come equipped with a handy dose counter. This feature ensures you always know when it's time to replace your medication. A convenience often absent in MDI inhalers.
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Impact on the Planet
Embrace the eco-friendly aspect of DPIs. By skipping propellants, DPIs greatly reduce their impact on the environment. They promote a greener choice for your asthma care. read more.
Considerations - Making the Switch
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Learning Curve
If you're accustomed to MDIs, adapting to DPIs may require a brief learning curve. Generally the switch is straight forward, but its vital to get the technique right. There are plenty of instruction videos, and your GP practice can help. Explore proper inhaler technique here.
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Inspiratory Drive Challenges:
Importantly some people may lack the inspiratory drive or breath strength needed to use a DPI properly. A quick self-test involves attempting to take a fast, deep breath within 2-3 seconds. If you can do this you can probably use a DPI inhaler.
Your GP practice should have an In-check device to measure your breath in if you are not sure. For some an MDI inhaler often with a spacer is the best way to go. This allows the medicine to get into your lungs with gentler breaths.
Want to know more about what it is like to switch?
Take a look at the video below. Here Michael explains how he found switching to a Dry Powder Inhaler.
The South East Greener NHS team have some other useful videos linked below.
I don't think Dry Powder Inhalers are right for me. Any other alternatives?
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Whilst we would encourage you to give DPIs a try, it may not suit you. And that is fine, we would much rather have your asthma well controlled with the right inhaler than struggling with the wrong one.
There are other ways you can improve the impact of your asthma care. Read more.
There is a further less common inhaler type - Soft Mist Inhalers (SMIs).
These are eco-friendly as they also work without using propellants. They use a spring mechanism to propel a mist of medicine into the lungs. These can be great for people with COPD - a different lung condition to asthma. Currently however, they are not available in the forms commonly used for asthma in UK. Things may change in the future as technology advances.
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In conclusion, as you embark on your inhaler journey, weigh the benefits and consider the environmental impact. There will be an inhaler out there best suited to you. By making the right choice, you can improve your wellbeing. Whatsmore, you also contribute to a healthier planet.
Contact your GP if you want to consider a switch.
1. Schreiber, J., Sonnenburg, T. & Luecke, E. Inhaler devices in asthma and COPD patients – a prospective cross-sectional study on inhaler preferences and error rates. BMC Pulm Med 20, 222 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12890-020-01246-z