What this covers
Inhalers deliver asthma medicine straight to the lungs, but most people use them incorrectly, so much of the dose never arrives. Knowing the difference between a daily preventer and a quick-relief inhaler — and using good technique, ideally with a spacer — transforms asthma control.
Safe-use guidance
- Learn the difference: the reliever eases attacks fast; the preventer, used daily, stops attacks happening — both matter.
- Shake (if applicable), breathe out fully, seal lips around the mouthpiece, press and breathe in slowly and deeply, then hold your breath for several seconds.
- A spacer makes inhalers far easier and more effective, especially for children — ask for one.
- Rinse your mouth after steroid preventer inhalers to avoid oral thrush.
- Track how often you need your reliever — needing it more than a couple of times a week suggests poor control worth reviewing.
- Keep a reliever accessible at home, work, or school, and check expiry dates.
Cautions
- Using only a reliever while skipping the preventer leaves the underlying inflammation untreated — a common cause of severe attacks.
- An attack not responding to the reliever is an emergency — seek urgent care.
- Do not stop preventer inhalers when you feel well without medical advice.
- Beware counterfeit inhalers from informal markets; buy from licensed pharmacies and check NAFDAC registration.
How GoDoctor helps
A GoDoctor pharmacist can coach you through inhaler technique on a video call and a doctor can review your asthma plan. Genuine inhalers and spacers are delivered to your door before your current one runs out.
Prescription medicines always require an in-app consultation with a licensed doctor first — the e-prescription then goes straight to a licensed partner pharmacy for dispensing and delivery.