Medicines are essential for managing asthma and achieving better asthma control.

The main aims of asthma treatment are:

• To keep lungs as healthy as possible
• To keep symptoms under control
• To stop asthma from interfering with school, work or play
• To prevent asthma flare-ups or ‘attacks’

The two types of asthma medicines are relievers and preventers. Every child, adolescent or adult with asthma needs to have a reliever inhaler (e.g. puffer) available at all times, so they can use it straight away if they have asthma symptoms.

The best choice of treatment will depend on the person’s age, symptoms and which type of inhaler they find easiest to use properly.

What you can do

Understanding the role of your asthma medications

• Ask your doctor, pharmacist or asthma educator about the role of each of your medications, as well as for written instructions on when and how to use them.
• Make sure you know about the possible side effects of your medication, so you understand what is and isn’t normal.
• If you have any concerns about your medications, please speak to a health professional sooner rather than later.

Using your inhaler correctly

Using your inhaler properly is important for you to get the full benefit of the medication. The steps are different for each type of inhaler – follow the instructions carefully and ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for training.

Many people do not realise they aren’t using their asthma or COPD inhaler (puffer) correctly. Make sure your inhaler technique is correct. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or asthma educator to check, download a fact sheet or watch the simple online demonstration videos on the National Asthma Council Australia website.

Sticking to your asthma medications

• Following a personalised asthma action plan is the best way to manage your asthma. Ask your doctor to write one for you.
• If you sometimes get confused, label your reliever and preventer puffers so you know which one is which.
• If you have been prescribed preventer medication, including a combination therapy, keep taking it even when you feel well. It needs to be taken regularly and over a long period of time to work effectively.
• Ask your doctor if your medication can be simplified. One way is to have the same type of inhaler for all your medications, so you don’t have to get used to several different kinds. Make sure that you ask your doctor for an inhaler that you find easy to use. There are special aids to help you if you have arthritis or have trouble coordinating the ‘press and breathe’ kind.
• Try to create memory aids for yourself, e.g. take your asthma preventer medications when you brush your teeth each morning and evening.

Tips for parents

• Ask your doctor or asthma educator about your child’s medications so you understand what the medication does and when it should be taken.
• Make sure you have a personalised asthma action plan for your child. Give a copy to your child’s school or childcare and to anyone who regularly looks after your child such as grandparents and sports coaches.
• Check that your child’s inhaler technique is correct, and their asthma puffers are easy for them to use. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or asthma educator to show you or watch the online videos available on the National Asthma Council Australia website.
• Using a spacer with the puffer will help reduce side effects like hoarseness and ensure better uptake of the medication. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which spacer is the most suitable for your child.
• Most of the time, preventer medication can be taken before and after school, decreasing the need for teacher supervision and avoiding potential hassles from other children. Discuss this with your child’s doctor if need be.
• As your child gets older, involve them in decisions about their asthma medication and management.