Published on 25 August 2026
If you have asthma, your knowledge of the range of inhalers available and their colours may be limited.
Do you understand the different inhaler types and colours?
Unfortunately, there is not a standardised colour code for asthma inhalers.
Manufacturers of the devices use colours as they wish so there is no uniformity.
It is absolutely essential that you check the packaging and instructions supplied with an inhaler to make sure you have the correct device.
Additionally, you need to remember that the packaging and colour of the inhaler can change without notice being given.
Different asthma treatments have specific instructions and it is essential you know how to use your inhaler to keep your asthma symptoms effectively controlled, to reduce the chances of an attack, and to counter an attack should one occur.
Types of inhaler
Essentially, there are four types of inhaler.
Reliever inhalers are fast-acting bronchodilators needed when symptoms such as coughing and wheezing occur. Airways are rapidly opened up but underlying inflammation is not treated.
Preventer inhalers are used daily to avoid symptoms developing and do not provide immediate relief.
Long-acting preventer inhalers usually contain long-acting bronchodilators and are for daily maintenance. They do not treat acute symptoms.
Combination/controller inhalers contain a long-acting preventer and a reliever. Some of these inhalers are used for daily prevention while others provide Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (MART).
Using your MDI inhaler
Using an inhaler the right way helps the medicine in the device reach your lungs and work effectively. The exact method you should use depends on the type you have. The most common is the pressurised metered-dose inhaler (MDI) which is often referred to as a “puffer”.
Steps you should take:
- Remove cap and check the mouthpiece is clear
- Make sure the inhaler is shaken well
- Sit or stand upright
- Breathe out fully away from the inhaler
- Place the mouthpiece between your lips and form a seal around the mouthpiece with the lips
- Start breathing in slowly through your mouth and press the canister once
- Continue breathing in slowly and deeply for three to five seconds
- Hold your breath for about ten seconds or for as long as is comfortable
- Breathe out slowly
- If you need a second “puff”, wait about 30 seconds before repeating
Using a spacer
A spacer can be attached to some inhalers, making them easier to use and more effective. A spacer may be advised if you find breathing difficult to coordinate or if you have difficulty pressing the inhaler.
Common mistakes
It is quite easy not to use the inhaler property.
Mistakes include:
- Forgetting to shake the inhaler
- Breathing in too fast
- Pressing the inhaler before you start inhaling
- Not holding your breath after inhaling
When to seek asthma advice
Our respiratory medicine service provides private assessment, diagnosis, and initial treatment for a range of lung and breathing conditions:
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Breathlessness
- Allergies affecting breathing
- Sleep apnoea and other sleep disorders
- Bronchiectasis
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Cystic fibrosis (initial care and assessment
Our Consultant Respiratory and Sleep Physician, Dr Sandip Banerjee and Consultant in Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Dr Syed Hassan, will support you in providing diagnosis and treatment for a range of lung conditions which can affect your breathing. You can also speak to one of our private GPs about your respiratory symptoms.
Get in touch using our online enquiry form or contact our Private Patient Team via Livechat or on 01580 363501.