New Inhaler Adventure

It is always a win when I have an interesting follow-up appointment. I have to admit that I was just not “feeling it” this time. I am not sure if it is because I have been on a stretch of stable asthma or if I just feel disconnected to care these days. Could it be that my asthma is finally boring? I am grateful for it not being eventful but I was not excited about a follow-up appointment on that particular day.

Discussing changes of asthma medications

At this particular follow-up, I was surprised that there was a discussion on changing some of my inhalers. I have been on a consistent regimen of daily inhalers for some time and I have not made drastic changes in a few years. I am generally open to change, especially if it means potential improvement or being on fewer steroids. I learned that we were going to make a change to my LAMA (Long-acting muscarinic antagonist) to see if a different molecule would be a better fit. There were some concerns about a possible adverse event with my other LAMA combo medications.

It was enlightening hearing my specialist and their Fellow discuss the merits of the different inhaler options. They discussed the pros and cons of a couple of combinations that might work for my case. I had not given much thought to inhaler combinations or branching out. There was a time in my asthma journey when I had tried some that were more successful than others. At times, it felt like I was just making my way through the inhaler chart that you often see on the wall of doctor’s offices. I was caught a bit off guard at the thought of a different combination so it was interesting to hear the options and the rationals.

Reasons for changes

In my case, there was a concern about the amount of LABA (long-acting beta-agonist) and LAMA that I would be taking. There was a thought about splitting out the ICS (Inhaled Corticosteroid) and maybe going back to an ICS that I had been on before plus a different LAMA/LABA combo and it was decided that I needed my ICS with a LABA so the idea was removed. My ICS/LABA has been pretty faithful so I am glad that it will be staying around and I will be trying a different new LAMA, which is both exciting and nerve-wracking. It also feels a bit wasteful as I just refilled my current LAMA. I guess I will hold on to those or find them a home.

My new asthma inhaler

When I picked up the prescription the pharmacist gave me an overview of the medication and I realized that it has been a long time since I have had the overview on an inhaler and it was nice to be reminded of the proper technique. I like that this inhaler is simple and I don’t have to be as coordinated with my breath on inhalation. It is still important to get a good inhale as it is only good if you get it into your lungs. This new device is similar and contains one medication that I had been on however it was nice to have a bit of a recap.

Have you recently changed to a new inhaler? I would love to hear about your experience. Share your new inhaler story in the comments or by clicking the button below!