Most Common Asthma Inhalers Brands

 It's Back to School time and many parents are searching for "asthma inhaler brands" so they know what their child needs to have for school. 

As a nationally Certified Asthma Educator (AE-C) with decades of experience, this is what a specialize in - helping people learn more about asthma!  

I also have asthma, and raised three kids with asthma. Asthma is the focus of my life personally and professionally. 

The graphic at the top shows each Albuterol inhaler that is on the market, along with the brand name. 

But let's take a closer look!

Proventil

The brand name for the YELLOW inhaler is "Proventil" (which is an Albuterol inhaler). It's an MDI (Metered Dose Inhaler), which it means it has a measured dose of Albuterol that uses a propellant. The Albuterol comes out of the inhaler at over 50 mph. So, it's important to inhale s-l-o-w-l-y to get the medicine to go down deep into the lungs. If you inhale fast, the Albuterol will land in the back of your throat, and you'll swallow it. True story.

 

 

 It also helps to use a spacer (or holding chamber) with the inhaler.  A spacer/holding chamber will break the medicine down into a smaller particles, so it's easier to inhale.

A spacer isn't just for kids! A spacer or holding chamber can help people who uncoordinated (like me!) I can't walk and chew gum at the same time, so I use a spacer since I have bad eye - hand coordination. 

Ventolin 

 The brand name for the LIGHT BLUE inhaler is "Ventolin" (which is another Albuterol inhaler). It's also a Metered Dose Inhaler, so remember to inhale s-l-o-w-l-y.

It also helps to use a spacer or holding chamber with Ventolin. 

 

ProAir

The brand name for the WHITE inhaler with the RED cap is "ProAir" (another Albuterol inhaler). 

But - did you notice that it looks bigger and chunkier than Proventil and Ventolin? ProAir is a dry powder inhaler (so there is no propellant.) It needs to be inhaled FAST!

A dry powder inhaler does NOT need a spacer - I know, I know....it's confusing. That's why I'm here to help! 

Generic Albuterol Inhaler

The DARK BLUE inhaler is a generic Albuterol inhaler for Proventil or Ventolin. It's a little confusing because the generic version can be a different color. This inhaler is dark blue. 

These are the most common Albuterol inhalers your child will need to have for their school backpack.

Feel free to download these graphics to your phone so they're handy when you talk to your doctor. When he or she prescribes an Albuterol inhaler, you'll know the name, color and how to use it!