British health experts are urging asthma patients who use blue inhalers to consult their doctors, after treatment guidelines were updated based on a study that found long-term reliance on them may worsen the condition.
For decades, millions of patients have relied on this inhaler, medically known as a short-acting beta-2 receptor agonist (SABA), which contains salbutamol, similar to Ventolin. This medication is used as an emergency solution to provide rapid relief from asthma symptoms by widening the airways and relieving shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.
However, new guidelines from the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend against relying solely on this type of inhaler, as it only temporarily relieves symptoms without addressing the underlying cause, which is bronchitis. Instead, they advise using combination inhalers that treat the inflammation and reduce the likelihood of attacks.
Experts warn that overuse of the blue spray is linked to an increased risk of severe attacks, hospitalization, and even death in some cases.
Dr. Amina Al-Yassin explains that this inhaler "provides a quick feeling of improvement, but it is temporary and may, over time, worsen asthma," stressing that its use alone is a warning sign that calls for a review of the treatment plan.
According to current guidelines, a patient with well-controlled asthma is expected to have few symptoms and rarely need a relief inhaler. Therefore, patients aged 12 years and older—especially those newly diagnosed or experiencing frequent symptoms—are advised to switch to combination inhalers.
These inhalers combine an anti-inflammatory drug (an inhaled steroid) with a long-acting bronchodilator such as formoterol, providing dual treatment: rapid symptom relief and treatment of inflammation at the same time.
These treatments fall under two main plans:
The "AIR" plan, where the spray is used only when needed.
The "MART" plan, where it is used daily for prevention, in addition to being used when needed to relieve symptoms.
Professor Ewan Maul emphasizes that the understanding of asthma has changed, explaining that treatment is no longer limited to opening the airways, but also includes controlling the inflammation that causes the symptoms. He adds that using combination inhalers can reduce acute attacks and improve lung health in the long term.
Experts also urge patients to consult their doctors to assess their treatment options and choose what best suits their condition.
The experts conclude by emphasizing the importance of regular medical follow-up to ensure the correct use of treatment and to maintain long-term lung health.
