Asthma Treatment & Inhalers
Access proven prescription inhalers and preventers for asthma management from the comfort of your home. Our UK-registered doctors provide safe, effective solutions with complete discretion.
View Treatment Options
Ventolin Inhaler
Symbicort Turbohaler
Seretide Inhaler
Salamol Inhaler
Qvar Autohaler
Pulmicort Turbohaler
Fostair Inhaler
Clenil Modulite Inhaler
Bricanyl Turbohaler
Airomir Autohaler
Atrovent Inhaler
On This Page
Asthma Overview
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Treatment Options
Management & Prevention
Quick Navigation: Use the links above to jump directly to specific sections, or scroll down to read the complete guide.
Asthma Treatments We Provide
We provide safe, effective prescription inhalers for asthma management. All medications are prescribed following a confidential online consultation with our UK-registered doctors.
Ventolin Inhaler
Reliever inhaler containing salbutamol for quick relief of asthma symptoms during an attack.
- Active Ingredient Salbutamol
- Type Reliever
- Price From £12.59
Symbicort Inhaler
Combination inhaler containing budesonide and formoterol for both prevention and relief.
- Active Ingredients Budesonide & Formoterol
- Type Combination
- Price From £44.59
Seretide Inhaler
Preventer inhaler containing fluticasone and salmeterol for long-term asthma control.
- Active Ingredients Fluticasone & Salmeterol
- Type Preventer
- Price From £29.59
Salamol Inhaler
Reliever inhaler containing salbutamol for quick relief of asthma symptoms.
- Active Ingredient Salbutamol
- Type Reliever
- Price From £12.59
Qvar Inhaler
Preventer inhaler containing beclometasone for regular asthma prevention.
- Active Ingredient Beclometasone
- Type Preventer
- Price From £18.59
Fostair Inhaler
Combination inhaler containing beclometasone and formoterol for asthma control.
- Active Ingredients Beclometasone & Formoterol
- Type Combination
- Price From £48.59
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties. It affects people of all ages and often starts in childhood, although it can also develop for the first time in adults.
Asthma Prevalence in the UK
According to Asthma + Lung UK, asthma affects approximately 5.4 million people in the UK:
| Population Group | Prevalence | Key Statistics |
|---|---|---|
| Children | 1 in 11 children | Most common long-term medical condition |
| Adults | 1 in 12 adults | Higher prevalence in women than men |
| Elderly | Increasing diagnosis | Often under-diagnosed in older adults |
What Causes Asthma?
Asthma is caused by inflammation of the small tubes (bronchi) that carry air in and out of the lungs. This inflammation makes the airways sensitive and swollen, which can lead to symptoms when exposed to certain triggers.
Risk Factors for Developing Asthma
- Genetics: Family history of asthma or allergic conditions
- Allergies: History of eczema, hay fever, or other allergies
- Childhood factors: Premature birth, low birth weight
- Environmental exposures: Tobacco smoke, air pollution
- Occupational exposures: Certain workplace chemicals or dusts
Types of Asthma
There are several different types of asthma, each with specific characteristics:
| Type of Asthma | Characteristics | Common Triggers |
|---|---|---|
| Allergic Asthma | Triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander | Pollen, mould, animal dander, dust mites |
| Non-Allergic Asthma | Triggered by factors not related to allergies | Stress, exercise, cold air, smoke |
| Occupational Asthma | Caused by workplace irritants | Chemicals, dust, gases, fumes |
| Exercise-Induced Asthma | Triggered by physical activity | Strenuous exercise, cold air during exercise |
| Childhood Asthma | Asthma that begins in childhood | Similar to adult triggers, often viral infections |
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Recognising asthma symptoms early is crucial for effective management and prevention of serious attacks.
Common Asthma Symptoms
According to the NHS, the main symptoms of asthma include:
- Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing
- Breathlessness: Feeling short of breath
- A tight chest: Feeling like a band is tightening around your chest
- Coughing: Particularly at night or early morning
These symptoms can vary from person to person and may:
- Come and go over time
- Be worse at night or early in the morning
- Be triggered by exercise or exposure to allergens
- Range from mild to severe
Diagnosing Asthma
Asthma diagnosis typically involves several steps to confirm the condition and rule out other causes:
| Diagnostic Method | Purpose | What It Involves |
|---|---|---|
| Medical History | Understand symptoms and patterns | Questions about symptoms, triggers, family history |
| Physical Examination | Check for signs of asthma | Listening to breathing, checking for allergic signs |
| Lung Function Tests | Measure how well lungs work | Spirometry, peak flow measurement |
| Response to Treatment | Confirm diagnosis | Monitoring improvement with asthma medications |
Common Asthma Triggers
Identifying and avoiding triggers is an important part of asthma management. Common triggers include:
Environmental Triggers
- Air pollution
- Pollen
- Mould spores
- Dust mites
- Animal dander
Lifestyle Triggers
- Exercise
- Stress
- Cold air
- Tobacco smoke
- Strong emotions
Other Triggers
- Respiratory infections
- Certain medications
- Weather changes
- Workplace irritants
- Food additives (in some people)
Recognising an Asthma Emergency
When to Seek Emergency Help
According to NHS Inform, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Your reliever inhaler isn't helping or you need to use it more than every 4 hours
- You're too breathless to speak, eat, or sleep
- Your breathing is getting faster and you feel like you can't catch your breath
- Your peak flow score is significantly lower than normal
- Children may also have a tummy ache or complain of their chest hurting
Call 999 immediately if someone is having an asthma attack and their symptoms aren't improving with their reliever inhaler.
Asthma Treatment Options
Effective asthma treatment involves a combination of medications and lifestyle management. The goal is to achieve good control of symptoms and prevent asthma attacks.
Reliever Inhalers
Reliever inhalers are used when needed to quickly relieve asthma symptoms. They work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
| Medication | Active Ingredient | How It Works | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ventolin | Salbutamol | Relaxes airway muscles | When symptoms occur or before exercise |
| Salamol | Salbutamol | Relaxes airway muscles | When symptoms occur |
| Airomir | Salbutamol | Relaxes airway muscles | When symptoms occur |
| Bricanyl | Terbutaline | Relaxes airway muscles | When symptoms occur |
Preventer Inhalers
Preventer inhalers are used daily to reduce inflammation and sensitivity in the airways, preventing symptoms from occurring.
| Medication | Active Ingredient | How It Works | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Qvar | Beclometasone | Reduces airway inflammation | Daily, usually twice daily |
| Pulmicort | Budesonide | Reduces airway inflammation | Daily, usually twice daily |
| Clenil Modulite | Beclometasone | Reduces airway inflammation | Daily, usually twice daily |
Combination Inhalers
Combination inhalers contain both a preventer and a reliever medication, offering both daily prevention and quick relief when needed.
| Medication | Active Ingredients | How It Works | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symbicort | Budesonide & Formoterol | Reduces inflammation + relaxes airways | Daily maintenance and relief |
| Seretide | Fluticasone & Salmeterol | Reduces inflammation + relaxes airways | Daily maintenance |
| Fostair | Beclometasone & Formoterol | Reduces inflammation + relaxes airways | Daily maintenance and relief |
Proper Inhaler Technique
Using your inhaler correctly is essential for getting the right dose of medication. Incorrect technique is a common reason for poor asthma control.
Steps for Proper Metered-Dose Inhaler Use:
- Remove the cap and shake the inhaler well
- Breathe out fully away from the inhaler
- Place the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your lips around it
- Start to breathe in slowly and deeply, then press the canister
- Continue to breathe in slowly and deeply
- Hold your breath for about 10 seconds, or as long as comfortable
- Breathe out slowly away from the inhaler
- Wait about 30-60 seconds before taking another puff
If you use a preventer inhaler, always rinse your mouth with water after use to prevent oral thrush.
Asthma Management & Prevention
Effective asthma management involves more than just medication. A comprehensive approach can significantly improve quality of life and reduce the risk of attacks.
Asthma Action Plan
Every person with asthma should have a personalised asthma action plan developed with their healthcare provider. This plan typically includes:
| Plan Section | Purpose | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Green Zone | Daily management | Regular medications, daily peak flow readings |
| Amber Zone | Worsening symptoms | Increased medication, when to contact doctor |
| Red Zone | Medical emergency | Emergency medication, when to seek immediate help |
Lifestyle Management
Certain lifestyle changes can help improve asthma control and reduce the frequency of symptoms:
- Regular exercise: Helps improve lung function (with proper management)
- Healthy weight: Reduces strain on respiratory system
- Balanced diet: Rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce inflammation
- Adequate hydration: Helps keep mucus thin and easier to clear
- Stress management: Techniques like meditation can help prevent stress-induced symptoms
Avoiding Asthma Triggers
Identifying and minimising exposure to your personal asthma triggers is crucial:
At Home
- Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water
- Keep humidity below 50% to reduce mould
- Avoid scented candles and air fresheners
- Choose hardwood floors over carpet when possible
Outdoors
- Check pollen forecasts and plan activities accordingly
- Stay indoors on high pollution days
- Wear a scarf over your nose and mouth in cold weather
- Take your reliever inhaler before exercise if recommended
Monitoring Your Asthma
Regular monitoring helps track your asthma control and identify when adjustments to your treatment might be needed:
- Peak flow meter: Measures how fast you can blow air out of your lungs
- Symptom diary: Track symptoms, triggers, and medication use
- Regular reviews: With your healthcare provider at least annually
- Asthma control tests: Questionnaires that help assess your level of control
How Our Asthma Treatment Service Works
Getting your asthma medication through Chemist Doctor is simple, discreet, and convenient. Our process is designed to respect your privacy while ensuring you receive safe, appropriate care.
Step 1: Complete Online Consultation
Answer questions about your asthma history, current symptoms, medications, and any other health conditions. Our secure platform ensures your information remains confidential.
Step 2: Medical Review by UK Doctor
A UK-registered doctor reviews your consultation to determine if treatment is appropriate and safe for you. We may contact you for additional information if needed.
Step 3: Prescription Issued
If approved, our doctor issues a prescription which is sent to our partner pharmacy for dispensing.
Step 4: Discreet Delivery
Your medication is packaged discreetly and delivered to your chosen address via tracked delivery.
What to Expect During Consultation
Our asthma consultation typically includes questions about:
- Your asthma symptoms and their frequency
- Current medications and inhaler technique
- Asthma triggers and how you avoid them
- History of asthma attacks or hospital visits
- Other health conditions and medications
- Smoking history and lifestyle factors
Honest, complete answers ensure our doctors can make the safest recommendations for your situation.
Asthma Inhaler FAQs
Are asthma inhalers safe to use?
Yes, when prescribed appropriately and used as directed, asthma inhalers are safe and effective. All medications available through Chemist Doctor are approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and are prescribed only when our doctors determine they are safe for you based on your medical history and current health status.
Can I use a reliever inhaler every day?
If you find yourself using your reliever inhaler every day or more than three times a week, this may indicate that your asthma is not well controlled. You should speak with a healthcare professional about reviewing your asthma treatment, as you may need a preventer inhaler for better long-term control.
What's the difference between blue and brown inhalers?
Blue inhalers are typically relievers (like Ventolin) used when needed for quick symptom relief. Brown (and other coloured) inhalers are usually preventers that need to be used daily to control inflammation and prevent symptoms from occurring. It's important to use the correct inhaler for its intended purpose.
How quickly will I receive my asthma medication?
For orders approved before 3pm on weekdays, we aim to dispatch the same day for next-day delivery. Standard delivery takes 2-3 business days. We understand that asthma medication can be essential, so we prioritise these orders.
Can I get asthma treatment if I've never been diagnosed before?
Our service is designed for people with a previous asthma diagnosis who need ongoing treatment. If you're experiencing breathing difficulties for the first time, we recommend seeing a GP for proper diagnosis and initial treatment planning.
What if my asthma symptoms get worse while using treatment?
If your asthma symptoms worsen or you're using your reliever inhaler more frequently, you should seek medical advice promptly. You can use our service for a follow-up consultation to discuss adjusting your treatment, but for sudden severe worsening, you should contact your GP or emergency services immediately.
Medical Content Manager
Nabeel is a co-founder, and medical content manager of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
Medical Doctor
Dr. Talal is a GMC registered doctor and medical reviewer at Chemist Doctor. He ensures clinical accuracy and reliability across health content.
Medical Director
Usman is a co-founder, and medical director of Chemist Doctor. He leads the organisation's strategic vision, bridging clinical and operational priorities.
Review Date: 19 November 2025
Next Review: 22 June 2026
Published on: 19 November 2025
Last Updated: 20 November 2025
