Practice update on salbutamol prescribing for asthmatics (this does not apply to our COPD patients) 

We are no longer issuing blue (salbutamol) inhalers on repeat prescription for our asthmatic patients. Let us explain why this is.

We are updating the way we prescribe blue inhalers to keep our patients safer. National guidance now advises that using a blue inhaler too often can be a sign that asthma is not well controlled and may increase the risk of asthma attacks, hospital admissions and even death. There is an updated and safer way for us to prescribe inhalers to our patients. If you request a new blue inhaler, you may be asked to book an asthma review to discuss alternative asthma treatment plans that are safer and more effective. 

Research has shown that taking a combination inhaler leads to better asthma control. It does this by reducing inflammation in the lungs that causes asthma symptoms. These inhalers contain two medicines

–  “Maintenance” medication is an inhaled steroid that helps to reduce inflammation 

–  “Reliever” medication helps to open up the airways, similar to the blue inhaler that you have been using. The reliever medicine in the combination inhalers lasts for longer than the blue inhaler

 This means that one inhaler can be used to treat and maintain your asthma control, but also relieve any sudden symptoms you have in between your usual morning and evening doses. A blue inhaler is therefore no longer necessary.

For more information about why we are making these changes, please visit:-Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (MART) Asthma + Lung UK