Over-the-counter (OTC) inhalers are not approved for treatingchronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD).
There are only a few OTC inhalers available.
These products are either approved for treating mild asthma symptoms or cold and flu symptoms, but not COPD.
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People with COPD should not use these products in place of the short-actingbronchodilatorprescribed by a healthcare provider.
This article discusses OTC inhalers and why they are not recommended for people with COPD.
OTC vs.
Prescription Inhalers
There are no OTC medications approved for the treatment of COPD.
Prescription rescue inhalers deliver a class of drugs known asshort-acting beta 2-agonists(SABAs).
The OTC inhalerPrimatene Mist(epinephrine inhalation aerosol) is also a short-acting bronchodilator.
It containsepinephrine, the drug form of the hormone adrenaline that is commonly used to treat allergic reactions.
After reformulating to use hydrofluoroalkanes (HFAs) instead, Primatene Mist returned to drugstore shelves in 2018.
Using an over-the-counter breathing treatment for COPD raises the following concerns.
You should not use one without first consulting with your healthcare provider.
Ineffective For COPD
While SABAs and Primatene Mist are short-acting bronchodilators, they are not equal.
Masks Worsening COPD
Aprogressive lung illness, COPD should be managed by a medical professional.
Most people with COPD also need to use long-acting controller medications to prevent symptoms and dangerous flare-ups.
Using an OTC inhaler may mask a worsening of your condition and delay you in getting appropriate medical care.
Prevent Better COPD Control
COPD exacerbations are serious and often require hospitalization.
Tell your healthcare provider anytime you experience an exacerbation.
Increased Side Effects
Taking OTC epinephrine alongside other short-acting bronchodilators may cause unpleasant side effects.
If you continue to have difficulty breathing or experience chest pain, seek immediate medical help.
If you haveprescription drug insurance, call to find out the preferred medications for treating COPD.
These will typically have a reduced copay compared to medications in a higher tier on theprescription drug formulary.
These inhalers contain different ingredients and have not been shown to help relieve COPD symptoms.
They may also prevent some people from seeking the advice of a healthcare provider for managing COPD.
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