Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
The potential impact of changing inhalers from a standard metered dose inhaler to a powder or mist inhaler is very significant....
WHAT NEXT?
When will my inhaler be changed?
We are under pressure to make some changes as soon as possible and we aim to begin making the changes steadily from January 2023 onwards.
Your prescription will be automatically changed if it is the same inhaler but a different supplier, simply request your inhaler as usual and our team will change the inhaler.
Other changes will be discussed at your next review.
What inhaler will I be changed to?
Stage 1 will involve changing the common inhalers Ventolin and Salbutamol metered dose inhalers (high carbon dioxide) to a Salamol inhaler which has the exact same ingredient and works in the same way. However, it produces less carbon dioxide. This will be an automatic process since the inhalers work in the same way.
Stage 2 will involve switching to Easyhalers. Suitable for patients now taking Salamol (salbutamol) or steroid inhalers like Qvar and Clenil inhalers, will be changed over from February 2023 onwards. These changes will be done during asthma reviews where possible, but some patients deemed suitable may be automatically switched over with guidance.
Stage 3 will begin changing patients on Fostair inhalers (high CO2) to Relvar Ellipta or Fostair NEXThaler with lower carbon footprints.
Is the active medicine the same?
Yes, the inhalers contain the same active medicine or one very similar, and so it will not make any difference to symptom control.
Do the inhalers last the same length of time?
Salbutamol and ventolin have 200 doses in them and Salamol is exactly the same. Reliever inhalers like this should be used as and when needed and last 2-3 months.
Easyhaler Beclomethasone has 200 doses just like both Clenil and Qvar inhalers.
Fostair inhalers have 120 doses and the same applies to Fostair NEXThaler.
Relvar Ellipta has 30 doses and is only once a day.
What I find it difficult to take the new inhaler?
Most inhaler changes are to a dry powder so they are slightly different to use (except changes to Salamol in stage 1 which is identical). These inhalers do not require the use of a spacer device and so are easier to use on the go.
The Easyhaler is actually very easy to use and most people will actually find it easier as it does not require coordination with your breathing.
Please visit https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/inhaler-videos/easyhaler/ to see how to take the Easyhaler. The Revlar Ellipta is also easy to use https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/inhaler-videos/ellipta/
Fostiar NEXThaler is similar https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/inhaler-videos/nexthaler/
Your pharmacist can also show you how to use it if you are unsure or have any queries. Just ask when you collect it and they will be able to help and advise.
Do I still need to use my spacer device?
No spacer device is needed with any of the above inhalers except Salamol, which makes it easier to keep you medication with you at all times without a spacer device.
Are there other inhaler changes coming?
We are implementing the changes in stages so patients can adjust to the changes but also allow pharmacies not to be overwhelmed and run out of stock if changes are made too quickly. We have communicated our plans with our local Pharmacies.
What if I have problems with the new inhaler?
Your pharmacist can also show you how to use it if you are unsure or have any queries.
We will be happy to review the change and either revert back to your previous inhaler or change to another if you are having issues.