Asthma Inhalers
Key Information
The Update: New national guidance has changed our approach to asthma treatment to make it safer, simpler, and more effective.
The Change: We are moving away from relying on separate inhalers and towards a single "2-in-1" combination inhaler.
The Goal: To treat the underlying cause of asthma (inflammation) every time you treat the symptoms.
The Analogy: Firefighters vs. Fireproofers
To understand this change, it helps to think of the different jobs inhalers do.
1. The Firefighter (The Blue Reliever)
- Old Role: Used to "rescue" you from symptoms like wheezing or coughing.
- The Limit: It only works to relax the muscles. It does not treat the underlying inflammation (the fire risk).
- The Risk: Relying only on the blue inhaler can lead to a higher chance of a serious asthma attack because the inflammation is left untreated.
2. The Fireproofer (The Steroid Preventer)
- Role: Works over time to calm down inflammation and sensitivity.
- Importance: This treats the actual cause of the problem.
3. The "2-in-1 Fire Crew" (The New Standard)
- The Solution: For most adults and children over 12, we are now prescribing a single combination inhaler.
- How it Works: This one device contains both your anti-inflammatory "fireproofer" AND a fast-acting "firefighter."
What is MART Therapy?
This new approach is known as MART (Maintenance and Reliever Therapy).
- Daily Dose: You use this single inhaler for your daily maintenance.
- Rescue Dose: You use the very same inhaler if you get symptoms.
- The Benefit: This means that every time you treat your symptoms, you are also getting a dose of anti-inflammatory medicine. You are fighting the fire and fireproofing at the exact same time.
What Does This Mean for Me?
New Patients
If you have recently been diagnosed, this "2-in-1" inhaler will likely be the first and main treatment we offer you.
Existing Patients
If you currently use a separate blue inhaler and a separate preventer (like a brown one):
- No Panic: You do not need to do anything immediately.
- The Plan: At your next annual review, we will discuss upgrading your treatment to the new "2-in-1" method.
When to Act Now
While most patients can wait for their review, please do not wait if your asthma feels uncontrolled.
The Rule of Three:
If you are using your blue reliever inhaler 3 or more times a week, please contact us. This suggests your inflammation is not under control.
Importance of Technique
Using your inhalers correctly is important. Even the best medicine won't work if it doesn't get deep into your lungs.
If you are unsure about your technique, click the link below to learn how to use your inhaler properly.
If you would like to discuss your inhalers, please click the link below.
Further Information
For more information about asthma, including symptoms, treatment and living with asthma, please visit the NHS website.
Last reviewed: 27 April 2026
Next review due: 27 April 2029
Page created: 27 April 2026