The medications inside inhalers work in different ways and are prescribed for various reasons.

These medications include:

Long-acting bronchodilators should not be used for anacute asthma attackor severe difficulty with breathing.

Be sure you understand the types of inhalers and know when to use them.

woman using red inhaler

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Inconsistent color use for inhalers may be risky if you do not read the medication labels carefully.

Be sure to read the medication label with the name every time.

Speak with your medical team if you have any questions or concerns about your prescriptions.

Blue, for example, can mean the inhaler is for quick symptom relief.

Talk with your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.Asthma medicines and treatment.

American Lung Association.When To See Your Doctor about Asthma.

2021;9(6):e51.

doi:10.1016/S2213-2600(21)00185-5

Drug Information Portal (NIH).Advair.

Drug Information Portal (NIH).Symbicort.