Reliever vs Preventer Asthma Inhalers: Types Explained & Usage Guide

Imagine it's a windy morning and you feel a tightness in your chest. You have two asthma inhalers in your bag – one with a blue cap and one with an orange cap – but you're not sure which one to use. Many Australians with asthma have felt this confusion about reliever vs preventer inhalers. In this guide, we'll clear the air on the two main types of asthma inhalers, how they work, and when to use each. By understanding your inhalers and using them correctly, you can manage your asthma with confidence and breathe easier.

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Types of Asthma Inhalers

Asthma medications generally fall into two categories: relievers and preventers​. Think of reliever inhalers as your emergency quick-fix, and preventer inhalers as your daily defense system. Both are crucial in an asthma management plan, but they serve very different purposes. Let's break down each type and how they help.

Reliever Inhalers (Quick Relief)

Reliever inhalers are fast-acting medications designed to provide immediate relief from asthma symptoms. When you inhale a dose from a reliever (commonly a short-acting bronchodilator), it works within minutes to relax the tight muscles in your airways, making it easier to breathe​. These inhalers are lifesavers during an asthma attack or sudden breathing difficulty – they quickly open up the lungs to relieve wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.

In Australia, reliever inhalers typically have a blue or grey cap, which is why you'll often hear them called "blue puffers." The most common reliever medication is salbutamol, known by brand names like Ventolin (or Asmol, Airomir)​. Ventolin is so common that it's become synonymous with asthma relief – it's available over the counter at pharmacies as a "Pharmacist Only" medicine in Australia. Another reliever you might come across is Bricanyl (active ingredient terbutaline), which is also a quick-relief bronchodilator. Bricanyl comes in a different device called a Turbuhaler (a type of dry powder inhaler) instead of the standard puffer​. Both Ventolin and Bricanyl do the same job: they provide rapid relief by opening your airways when you're having symptoms or an asthma attack.

Reliever inhalers are essential in emergencies. You should carry your reliever with you at all times, as it's the medication that can stop an asthma attack in its tracks. Use your reliever inhaler whenever you experience asthma symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath, as directed by your doctor. It's also commonly recommended to take 1–2 puffs of your reliever about 5-10 minutes before exercise if you have exercise-induced asthma​. This helps to prevent symptoms during physical activity.

While relievers are crucial for quick help, it's important to note what they do not do: they don't fix the underlying problem in your airways. Asthma symptoms happen in part because the airways are inflamed (swollen and sensitive). Relievers only treat the muscle spasm part of asthma (bronchoconstriction) – they don't reduce inflammation. This is why you shouldn't over-rely on your blue puffer. If you find you're needing your reliever inhaler very frequently (e.g. every day or several times a week), it means your asthma may not be well-controlled and you should talk to your doctor about adjusting your treatment. Overusing reliever medication can actually be a warning sign and can lead to worse asthma outcomes​. In fact, research in Australia has shown that using more than 3 reliever inhalers in a year doubles the risk of severe asthma attacks, and going through one blue inhaler a month is associated with a greatly increased risk of life-threatening asthma​. The bottom line: use relievers when you need them, but if you need them often, you likely need better daily control (that's where preventers come in).

Common reliever inhaler brands in Australia include:

• Ventolin (salbutamol) – the iconic blue puffer, fast relief of symptoms.
• Bricanyl (terbutaline) – a blue reliever in a Turbuhaler device​.
• Airomir, Asmol (salbutamol) – other brands of salbutamol inhalers (work the same as Ventolin).
• Symbicort Rapihaler – (This is actually a combination inhaler containing a preventer and a reliever medication; we'll discuss it under preventers, but note that in certain cases it can be used as a reliever as part of a specific plan called SMART).

Use your reliever inhaler whenever you notice asthma symptoms, but do not substitute it for your preventer. Relievers are there for immediate, short-term relief of asthma symptoms; once they've opened your airways and you can breathe better, their job is done. They do not provide long-term control or protection against future flare-ups.

Preventer Inhalers (Daily Control)

Preventer inhalers are the backbone of daily asthma management. These medications work slowly over time to control the chronic inflammation in your airways, making them less sensitive and less likely to react to triggers. Unlike relievers, preventers do not give instant relief during an asthma attack – instead, they prevent attacks and symptoms when used consistently every day​.

Most preventer inhalers in Australia contain inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Corticosteroids are medicines that reduce inflammation (swelling and irritation) in the airways. By inhaling a small dose daily, you treat the lungs directly and minimize side effects to the rest of the body​. Common inhaled steroid preventers include:

• Fluticasone (brand name Flixotide, usually an orange puffer)
• Budesonide (Pulmicort, often a beige/brown Turbuhaler)
• Beclomethasone (Qvar, a red inhaler)
• Ciclesonide (Alvesco, an orange inhaler)

These ICS preventers are prescription-only in Australia​. They are usually taken once or twice daily (for example, morning and night), even when you feel well. It typically takes a few days of regular use before you notice improvement, and up to a few weeks for full effect​. Consistency is key – to get the benefit, you must remember to take it every day as prescribed, even if your asthma symptoms are infrequent or mild. Skipping doses or only taking the preventer when you feel unwell will greatly reduce its effectiveness. Think of it like brushing your teeth to prevent cavities: you do it regularly to prevent problems, not just when you have a toothache.

By using your preventer inhaler daily, you are tackling the root cause of your asthma symptoms. Over time, you should find that you have fewer asthma flare-ups, less need for your reliever, and can enjoy day-to-day activities with fewer interruptions. Studies have shown that regular use of inhaled corticosteroids reduces the number and severity of asthma attacks and even lowers the risk of asthma-related death by about 50%​. In other words, preventers can be life-saving in the long run by keeping your asthma under tight control.

It’s important to know that preventer inhalers are not for immediate relief. If you're in the middle of an asthma attack or suddenly short of breath, do not reach for your preventer inhaler expecting quick help – it won't work fast enough. Preventers should never be used in place of a reliever during an acute asthma attack​. Always use your rapid-relief blue inhaler for sudden symptoms, and use the preventer as directed daily to reduce how often those attacks happen in the first place.

Combination Inhalers: In some cases, doctors prescribe a combination inhaler that contains both a preventer medicine (inhaled corticosteroid) and a long-acting reliever medicine in one device. These are often used for moderate to severe asthma. Examples include Seretide (purple inhaler, contains fluticasone + salmeterol), Symbicort (red/white Turbuhaler or puffer, contains budesonide + formoterol), Breo Ellipta (contains fluticasone + vilanterol), and Flutiform (fluticasone + formoterol). Combination inhalers provide the convenience of one inhaler for both controlling inflammation (ICS component) and maintaining long-lasting bronchodilation (LABA – long-acting beta agonist). Just like plain ICS inhalers, they are used daily and are not intended for immediate symptom relief – with one exception: inhalers that contain the ingredient formoterol have a special role. Formoterol is a long-acting bronchodilator, but it has a rapid onset (it works almost as quickly as Ventolin). This means combination inhalers like Symbicort (budesonide + formoterol) can actually double as a reliever in certain treatment plans​.

You may have heard of SMART or MART therapy (Single Maintenance And Reliever Therapy). SMART is an approach where one combination inhaler (usually budesonide/formoterol, like Symbicort or DuoResp) is used both as the daily preventer and as the reliever when needed. In other words, instead of having a separate blue puffer, the person uses their Symbicort for quick relief as well as for maintenance. This is only done with specific inhalers and only under medical advice. The idea is that you get an extra dose of steroid each time you use it for relief, which can prevent the attack from worsening. SMART has been recommended by asthma guidelines for certain patients because it can simplify treatment and reduce severe attacks​. If your doctor has you on a SMART regimen, your asthma action plan will explain how many doses of your combination inhaler to take daily and how to also use it when you have symptoms. For example, Symbicort is approved in Australia for use as maintenance-and-reliever therapy – your plan might say to take it every morning and night, and also take extra puffs if you get wheezy. Important: Do not do this on your own without a doctor's instruction – most combination inhalers cannot be used as relievers (using them in an attack won't provide quick enough relief unless they contain formoterol)​. Always follow your doctor's advice on how to use your inhalers.

No matter which preventer or combination inhaler you're on, remember these tips for safe use:

• Use it daily: Skipping doses will make it less effective. Preventers only work if taken regularly​.
• Rinse your mouth after use: Inhaled corticosteroids can sometimes cause oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth) or a hoarse voice. Rinsing your mouth and spitting out the water after each dose can help prevent this​. Using a spacer device with a puffer inhaler also reduces this risk by delivering more medicine to your lungs and less to your throat​.
• Don't expect instant results: Preventers work in the background over days and weeks. They won't help in a sudden asthma attack (have your reliever for that)​.
• Stick to the plan: Continue to use your preventer even if you're feeling well. Stopping it suddenly can lead to your asthma getting worse again. If you think you might be able to come off it, talk to your doctor first – they may advise a trial of stepping down the dose gradually when your asthma is very well controlled.

Inhaler Devices: MDIs vs Dry Powder Inhalers

Asthma medications can be delivered through different types of inhaler devices. The two most common types are metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) and dry powder inhalers (DPIs). It's a bit like having the same coffee served as either a hot latte or an iced frappé – the form is different, but you're getting the same core ingredient. However, each device has its own technique and practical benefits.

Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs): These are the classic pressurized puffers – a small aerosol canister inside a plastic holder. When you press down on the canister, it releases a mist of medicine that you inhale. MDIs deliver a specific measured dose with each “puff” (hence the name metered-dose). Common examples: the Ventolin puffer, Flixotide puffer, Symbicort Rapihaler, etc. MDIs are quick and convenient. They are small, portable, and the medicine is already propelled out, so you just coordinate pressing and breathing in. However, MDIs require good technique – you have to time your inhale with the puff release, and inhale slowly enough for the medicine to travel into your lungs. Many people (especially children) find this coordination tricky. This is where a spacer can help (more on spacers below). One advantage of MDIs is that you can use a spacer attachment, and they work even if your breath is very weak (because the medicine is sprayed in). They also tend to be more commonly prescribed and familiar.

Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs): Instead of a spray, DPIs contain medication in a dry powder form. Example devices include Turbuhaler (used for Pulmicort, Symbicort, Bricanyl), Accuhaler (for Seretide, Flixotide), Ellipta (for Breo, etc.), and Respimat (mist inhaler for Spiriva or Combivent, slightly different mechanism). DPIs are typically breath-activated – you load a dose (by twisting the base or clicking a lever) and then simply take a fast, deep breath in through the mouthpiece, which pulls the powder into your lungs. The big benefit is ease of use: you don't have to press a canister at the same time as inhaling. This makes them simpler for many people – just "suck" the medicine in. They are also often compact and have counters that tell you how many doses are left. On the downside, DPIs require a strong enough inhale to draw the medicine in. During a severe asthma attack or for very young children or frail adults, this could be a problem (if you can't breathe in hard, you might not get the full dose). You also cannot use a spacer with a DPI – spacers only work with aerosol sprays from MDIs. Additionally, you must keep DPIs dry; exhaling into them by mistake can clump the powder. Each DPI has its own loading mechanism (for example, the Turbuhaler you twist until it clicks, the Accuhaler you slide a lever, etc.), so you need to learn the specific steps for your device.

Which is better? Neither type is universally “better” – it depends on what you find easier and what your doctor recommends. Some medications are available in both an MDI and a DPI format. For instance, Symbicort comes as an MDI (Rapihaler) and DPI (Turbuhaler). Ventolin comes as an MDI and also as a DPI (called Ventolin Rotacaps, though these are less common now). Your doctor or pharmacist will consider your age, dexterity, and lung strength when prescribing a device​. Young children, for example, usually use an MDI with a spacer (often with a face mask attached for babies/toddlers) because they can't generate the fast inhalation needed for a DPI​. Older kids and adults can often handle either, but some people prefer one over the other. The best inhaler is the one you can use correctly. If you are unsure, ask your healthcare provider to show you the proper technique for your inhaler device and check your technique regularly. In fact, using your inhaler wrong is very common, and it's a major reason for poorly controlled asthma.

Spacers: A spacer is not an inhaler itself, but a very useful add-on accessory for MDIs (puffer inhalers). It is a plastic tube/chamber that you attach to your puffer. You spray the puffer medication into the chamber, and then inhale from the chamber through a mouthpiece (or mask). The spacer holds the medicine cloud for a moment, giving you time to inhale it deeply. It also causes larger droplets to drop out in the chamber, so that more fine particles of medicine go into your lungs and less sticks in your mouth/throat. Using a spacer with a puffer can deliver up to double the amount of medicine to the lungs compared to using the inhaler alone, which makes it more effective. It also greatly helps if you have trouble coordinating the press-and-breathe action – you can even take a few normal breaths to get all the medicine out of the spacer if one deep breath is hard for you​. Spacers are highly recommended for kids and for anyone who wants to optimize their inhaler technique. They are inexpensive and come in various sizes (pocket-size collapsible ones or larger volume ones). Many people find inhalers much easier to use with a spacer, and the spacer helps optimize the amount of medication reaching your lungs​ Another bonus: using a spacer can reduce the chance of side effects like thrush, since less steroid lands in your mouth​. The only caveat is you must keep your spacer clean (wash it about once a month and let it air dry) and replace it every so often if it gets worn out.

Practical tip: Whichever device you use, have your technique checked periodically. It's easy to develop bad habits or for technique to slip over time. A quick inhaler technique checkup with your GP, asthma educator, or pharmacist can ensure you're getting the most out of your medication​. Also, keep track of how many doses you've used – some MDIs have dose counters, but if not, you might need to estimate when it's getting empty. An inhaler can feel like it's still spraying (propellant coming out) even when the medicine is gone. So don't wait until you're struggling to realize your inhaler is empty; replace it on schedule or when the counter is low.

Using an Asthma Inhaler Correctly

Having the right inhaler is only half of the equation – you also need to use it correctly to ensure the medicine actually gets into your lungs. Incorrect inhaler technique is a very common problem; even long-time asthma patients can use a refresher on proper technique. In this section, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to use a standard puffer inhaler (MDI) with and without a spacer, and highlight some common mistakes to avoid.

How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler (Puffer)

Using an MDI might feel awkward at first, but with practice it becomes second nature. Here are the general steps for using a standard puffer without a spacer:

1. Shake the inhaler – Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright. Shake it well for a few seconds. This mixes the medication inside​.
2. Breathe out fully – Breathe out away from the inhaler to empty your lungs. This makes room for the medicine you're about to inhale​.
3. Position the inhaler – Put the mouthpiece in your mouth, between your teeth, and close your lips tightly around it. (Make sure your tongue is not blocking the opening)​. Alternatively, you can hold the inhaler about 2-4 cm in front of your open mouth – but most people find the direct-to-mouth method easier to get right.
4. Press and inhale slowly – As you start to breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth, press down once on the inhaler canister to release a puff of medicine​. It's important to breathe in slowly (over ~3-5 seconds). Tip: Imagine sipping hot soup – that slow, steady inhale is the pace you want.
5. Keep breathing in – Continue taking a full, deep breath to draw the medicine all the way into your lungs.
6. Hold your breath – Take the inhaler out of your mouth and hold your breath for about 5 to 10 seconds (or as long as comfortable). This gives time for the medication to deposit in your airways.
7. Breathe out slowly – Exhale gently away from the inhaler. If you need a second puff, wait about 30 seconds to 1 minute, then shake the inhaler again and repeat the steps​.
8. Replace the cap – Once you’re done, put the cap back on to keep the mouthpiece clean.

Some inhalers may have slight variations in instructions (for example, certain combination inhalers might say to wait longer between puffs, or not to shake if it's a dry powder device). Always read the leaflet that comes with your inhaler for any device-specific directions. If you use a corticosteroid preventer inhaler, remember to rinse your mouth out after your doses.

Using an Inhaler with a Spacer

Using a spacer with your puffer can make it easier to take your medication and improve how much of the drug gets into your lungs. Here’s how to use an inhaler with a spacer attached:

1. Prepare the inhaler and spacer – If your spacer is two-piece, put it together. Remove your inhaler’s cap and shake the inhaler well.
2. Attach the spacer – Insert the inhaler mouthpiece into the spacer opening (usually at the end of the spacer). Ensure it fits snugly and keep the inhaler upright​.
3. Exhale and position – Breathe out fully, then put the spacer's mouthpiece in your mouth, sealing your lips around it (or fit the mask over nose and mouth if using a mask attachment)​.
4. Release one puff into spacer – Press down on your inhaler once. This will spray one dose of medicine into the spacer chamber​. Keep the spacer horizontal and do not remove the inhaler from the spacer yet.
5. Inhale the medicine – There are two techniques here:
   • The preferred way is to take a slow, deep breath in through your mouth, filling your lungs, then hold your breath for about 5 seconds​.
   • If you find it hard to take one deep breath, you can breathe in normally 4 times. For example, breathe in and out gently into the spacer four times. This will still get the medicine into your lungs.
6. Hold breath briefly – If you did the single deep breath, hold it ~5-10 seconds, then breathe out into the spacer or away from it. (If you did the 4 normal breaths method, no need to hold breath; just ensure you've taken about 4 good breaths.)​
7. Repeat if needed – If you need another puff, keep the spacer in your mouth and wait ~30 seconds. Shake the inhaler again, spray another puff into the spacer, and inhale again as above.
8. Finish up – Remove the inhaler from the spacer and replace the inhaler cap. Take the spacer out of your mouth. If it’s a steroid inhaler, rinse your mouth afterwards.

Using a spacer can feel a bit cumbersome at first, but it is the recommended method for taking inhaled steroids (and for any puffer in children). Spacers are especially helpful for young kids or anyone having difficulty with the standard technique​. Even if you normally use your inhaler fine without a spacer, during a severe flare-up when you're breathless, a spacer can ensure you get the medicine in effectively. Many Australian asthma first-aid guidelines suggest using a spacer in emergencies if available​. It’s a good idea to have a spacer at home. They are inexpensive, and some pharmacies even give them out with new preventer prescriptions.

Spacer care: Clean your spacer about once a month (per manufacturer instructions, usually with mild soap and water, and air-dry without rinsing to maintain an anti-static coating). Also, check for any damage and replace it every 6-12 months or as directed, because old spacers can become less effective.

Common Inhaler Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it's easy to slip into bad habits when using inhalers. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Not shaking the inhaler (for MDIs): If you don't shake before each puff, the medication may not mix properly and you might get too much propellant and too little medicine​. Always shake your puffer before every puff.
• Incorrect breathing timing (MDIs): This is very common – pressing the inhaler at the wrong moment or breathing in too late/too early. You need to start breathing in just before you press the inhaler, and continue inhaling slowly as it sprays. If you press it too early or too late, the medicine may just coat your mouth or dissipate. Using a spacer greatly reduces this problem, since you can just press the inhaler first and then inhale​.
• Inhaling too fast or too shallow (MDIs): A very fast, sharp inhale can make the medicine hit the back of your throat and stick there. A slow, steady deep breath is more effective​. Conversely, don't stop inhaling too soon – take a full breath so the medicine gets deep into the lungs.
• Not breathing in strongly enough (DPIs): For dry powder devices, the mistake is the opposite – breathing in too weakly or too slowly. You need a forceful breath to draw in the powder dose​ If you breathe in timidly, you might not get the full dose.
• Not exhaling first: Forgetting to breathe out before using the inhaler is a common error. If your lungs are partially full, you won't be able to inhale the medicine deeply. Always exhale a comfortable amount of air before you put the inhaler in your mouth (just don't blow into the device, especially for DPIs, as moisture can clog them).
• Multiple puffs without waiting: If you spray two puffs back-to-back quickly, you don't give time for the first puff to be inhaled properly. Always wait ~30 seconds and shake the inhaler again between puffs of an MDI. (With a DPI, usually you also need to reload the dose by priming or twisting for the next puff – follow the device instructions.)
• Not holding your breath after inhaling: This is crucial for MDIs and even helpful for DPIs. If you immediately exhale, you might blow out some of the medicine before it settles in your lungs. Try to hold for at least 5 seconds (10 if you can). If you forget, just remember for next time – it's an important step.
• Wrong head position: People sometimes tilt their head down or excessively up. The best position is to keep your head level or chin slightly up, so the airway is open. (Lifting your chin a bit helps the medicine go down to your lungs, not just hit your throat.)
• Using an empty inhaler: MDIs might still puff out some propellant even when the medicine is finished. Don't rely on sound or feel – check the dose counter if there is one, or keep track of roughly how many doses you've taken. If in doubt, get a new inhaler. Using a near-empty inhaler might give you little to no medication.
• Not using a spacer when you should: If your doctor recommended a spacer and you skip it, you might be getting less medicine than intended. Especially for steroid inhalers, not using a spacer can increase side effects like thrush. Use the spacer consistently if advised – it's there to help.
• Poor maintenance: Dirty or clogged inhalers/spacers can interfere with dosage. MDIs can have medication build-up in the mouthpiece – wipe it clean periodically. Spacers can build static or get grubby – wash them as directed. Always keep the caps on to avoid dust or lint entering.

If you're ever unsure about your technique, ask a healthcare professional to watch you use your inhaler. It's a quick fix for something that has a big impact on your asthma control. Remember, even the best medicine won't work if it doesn't reach your lungs!

Asthma Action Plans & When to Use Each Inhaler

Having an asthma action plan is like having a personalized instruction manual for your asthma. It tells you exactly when and how to use each of your inhalers and what steps to take if your asthma is getting worse. In Australia, every person with asthma – no matter how mild – is encouraged to have a written asthma action plan from their doctor​.

What is an Asthma Action Plan?

An Asthma Action Plan is a written set of guidelines that you develop with your doctor or asthma nurse. It typically outlines:

• Daily management: what daily preventer medication to take (drug name and dose), and any other routine meds.
• How to recognize worsening asthma: signs like increasing symptoms or peak flow drops, and what to do if that happens (for example, increase your preventer dose or start oral steroids as instructed).
• When and how to use reliever medication: e.g. "use 2 puffs of Ventolin if wheezing or chest tight," and how often it can be repeated.
• When to seek emergency help: e.g. "if reliever isn't helping after 10 minutes or symptoms are severe (difficulty speaking, blue lips), call 000 for an ambulance."

Often plans are written in a traffic light format – Green (good control), Yellow (worsening, take action), Red (emergency). They are customized to your triggers and normal peak flow (if you use a peak flow meter).

Daily Use: Preventer vs Reliever – Your action plan will make it clear that the preventer inhaler is to be taken every day (usually listed in the Green zone of the plan). Even if you're feeling well, the preventer keeps working in the background to prevent flare-ups. The plan will specify how much (for example, "2 puffs of Flixotide 125 mcg twice daily") as your maintenance therapy. Reliever inhaler usage usually appears in all zones: in the Green zone it might say "use only as needed before exercise or if symptoms", in Yellow it might say "use 4 puffs of Ventolin when wheezing, may repeat every 4 hours" (as an example), and in Red zone "use 4-8 puffs every 20 minutes while seeking emergency help". This structured approach takes the guesswork out – you know when to increase medication or seek help because it's pre-decided when you're calm, rather than in the heat of an attack.

When to use each inhaler: In simple terms, use your preventer inhaler daily as directed (usually morning and night). Use your reliever inhaler only when you have symptoms or as instructed for emergencies. Preventers are not on an as-needed basis – they must be regular. Relievers are not on a schedule (unless pre-exercise); they are taken for quick relief of symptoms. If you find you're needing the reliever more than 2 days a week (aside from exercise), that typically means your asthma is not fully controlled and you should consult your doctor – your preventer treatment might need stepping up.

Your plan might also mention other steps, like taking your reliever before exercise (for exercise-induced symptoms), or what to do during allergy season. Some plans include a temporary increase in preventer inhaler (or adding oral tablets) during a Yellow zone period. For instance, a doctor might advise doubling your inhaled steroid dose for a few weeks if you have a cold that’s triggering asthma, or starting a course of prednisone tablets in a Red zone situation. All these specifics should be written in your action plan so you don't have to rely on memory during a stressful flare-up.

Why have a written plan? Because it works! Studies show that having a written asthma action plan can significantly improve asthma outcomes. People with action plans have fewer days off work or school, fewer hospital visits, and use their reliever inhaler less often on average​. It's one of the most effective tools for asthma management. The plan basically coaches you to respond early when your asthma is getting worse, which can prevent a serious attack. Instead of waiting until you're very ill, you follow the plan's instructions to get back in control early.

Keep your action plan handy – know where it is, and share a copy with family, your partner, or caretakers of your child (school, daycare) so others know what to do as well​. Many Australians stick their plan on the fridge or save a photo of it on their phone for quick reference. It's also good to review and update your plan at least once a year with your doctor, or whenever there are changes to your treatment​. Asthma can change over time, and your plan needs to reflect your current medications and thresholds.

In summary, the action plan helps you decide when to use each inhaler: The preventer is used routinely to maintain control, and the reliever is used according to symptoms or certain situations (like before exercise or during an attack). If you ever move from just needing reliever occasionally (Green zone) to needing it more frequently (Yellow zone), that's your signal via the plan to maybe up your preventer or seek medical advice. And if it's an emergency (Red zone), the plan will tell you to use the reliever (often multiple doses) and call for help.

If you don't have an action plan yet, ask your GP or asthma educator. They can work with you to create one. Asthma Australia and the National Asthma Council have plan templates that doctors use – including some specifically for using Symbicort as both preventer and reliever if you're on SMART therapy​. Getting a plan is usually a quick discussion with your doctor, and it could save your life in an emergency by ensuring the right actions are taken promptly.

Key takeaway: Use your preventer inhaler every day as prescribed (typically in the morning and evening) to keep asthma controlled. Use your reliever inhaler when you have symptoms or as directed for asthma first aid. And always follow your personal asthma action plan for guidance – it will tell you when to ramp up treatment or seek help. With a solid plan in place and the right inhaler use, most people with asthma can lead full, active lives with minimal interruptions.

How Australians Can Get an Asthma Inhaler Prescription Online

Managing asthma includes making sure you always have your medications on hand. In Australia, most asthma inhalers (particularly preventers and combination inhalers) require a prescription from a doctor. (The exception is the blue reliever like Ventolin – a pharmacist can provide it without a prescription in an emergency, but generally it's best used under medical guidance too​.) If you're running low on your preventer or need a new inhaler, traditionally you'd book a GP appointment for a prescription. However, these days there are convenient online options to renew your asthma inhaler prescription without the long wait at a clinic.

NextClinic offers online prescriptions for asthma inhalers and other medications. For Australian patients, NextClinic provides a quick telehealth consultation service – you fill out an online form about your asthma and medication needs, and a registered Australian doctor reviews it, usually within an hour​. If appropriate, they will issue a prescription for your inhaler, all done online. The consultation fee is $29.90 (not covered by Medicare, since it's a private service)​. This flat fee covers the doctor's review and the prescription issuance. You’ll receive an e-script token (often via SMS or email to your phone) which contains a QR code. You can take this to any pharmacy in Australia. The pharmacist scans the code, and then can dispense your asthma inhaler.

Do note that you will still pay for the medication at the pharmacy – the $29.90 is only for the online consultation and prescription issuance​. The cost of the inhaler at the pharmacy will depend on the medication and whether it's covered by the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme). Most preventers and relievers are on the PBS, so if you have a Medicare card, you'll pay the standard co-pay (which as of 2025 is around $30 or $7 concession for PBS meds, though there have been recent moves to allow 60-day dispensing for some inhalers which can change pricing). Always ask the pharmacy about the cost or PBS coverage if you’re unsure.

Conclusion

Asthma is a condition that you can control with the right knowledge, medication, and technique. By understanding the difference between reliever inhalers and preventer inhalers, you empower yourself to use each medication properly: reaching for the quick-relief puffer when symptoms strike, and sticking to your daily preventer to keep those symptoms at bay in the first place. We've seen how reliever inhalers like Ventolin provide immediate rescue in moments of need, while preventer inhalers (inhaled corticosteroids and combos) quietly do the preventative maintenance work that keeps your airways calm and clear. Both are vital tools in your asthma toolkit – knowing when and how to use them is key to staying healthy.

Correct inhaler technique is just as important as the medication itself. Using a spacer, taking the time to inhale correctly, and avoiding common mistakes will ensure you truly get the benefit of every puff. If it's been a while since someone reviewed your technique, consider asking your pharmacist or GP at your next visit – a two-minute check could dramatically improve how well your medication works for you.

Don't forget the bigger picture: an asthma action plan personalized for you can remove uncertainty and help you act quickly when it matters. It will guide you on increasing medication during a flare-up and tell you exactly when to use each inhaler or seek help. Keep your plan handy and make sure your loved ones or caregivers are aware of it. As the saying goes, plan ahead and you won't panic later.

For those in Australia, it's reassuring to know that getting your asthma inhalers has become more convenient than ever. Whether through a traditional GP visit or a modern online service like NextClinic, you have options to ensure you always have access to the preventers and relievers you need. With online prescriptions, you can save time and get your medications without hassle – perfect for busy schedules or unexpected needs.

In closing, remember that asthma is manageable. Millions of Australians successfully manage their asthma and lead active lives – and you can too. Use your preventer inhaler every day (even when you're feeling well) to keep your lungs healthy. Keep your reliever inhaler on hand for immediate help when symptoms creep up. Follow the techniques and tips to use your inhalers correctly. And most importantly, don't hesitate to seek medical advice if things aren't going right – whether that's adjusting your treatment, reviewing your inhaler technique, or simply renewing a prescription. With the right inhalers, the right technique, and the right plan, you can stay one step ahead of asthma.

Breathe easy, stay prepared, and take control of your asthma management. You've got this!

TLDR

Disclaimer

This medical blog provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your regular doctor for specific medical concerns. The content is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication and may change. While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties regarding completeness or reliability. Use the information at your own risk. Links to other websites are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. The views expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily representative of any institutions.