A sudden asthma attack causes the airways to narrow quickly, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. If your prescribed rescue inhaler is unavailable, borrowing one becomes an urgent consideration. This situation balances the immediate need for life-saving medication against the rules of using prescription drugs and the risks of sharing medical devices. Determining whether a borrowed inhaler is safe requires understanding the type of medication it contains and the associated hygiene concerns.
The Immediate Medical Answer
The primary medical guidance discourages using prescription medication not specifically prescribed to you. This is because a healthcare provider has not assessed your medical history or current condition. However, in a severe breathing emergency, the risk posed by an untreated asthma attack is significantly greater than the potential harm from a single, borrowed dose of the correct medication. Therefore, the immediate life-saving benefit of a known rescue bronchodilator often outweighs the rule against sharing prescriptions.
A separate concern is the risk of cross-contamination from sharing the device’s mouthpiece, which can transfer viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens. While the medication inside the canister remains sterile, the plastic actuator is exposed to saliva and respiratory secretions. If a shared inhaler must be used, wiping the mouthpiece with an alcohol swab can help minimize hygiene risks. Using a makeshift spacer, such as a clean plastic cup, can also reduce direct mouth contact.
Understanding Inhaler Types
The effectiveness of a borrowed inhaler depends entirely on the medication it delivers, as inhalers are divided into two main categories. A Rescue Inhaler contains a short-acting beta-agonist (SABA), such as albuterol or salbutamol, which works within minutes to relax the smooth muscles surrounding the airways. This rapid bronchodilation provides immediate relief during an acute attack.
In contrast, a Controller or Maintenance Inhaler contains medicine, often an inhaled corticosteroid or a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA), designed to reduce chronic inflammation over time. These medications are taken daily to prevent attacks, but they offer no immediate relief during an acute breathing episode. Using a controller inhaler in an emergency will not stop the acute airway constriction and may delay seeking effective help. Therefore, confirming the borrowed device is a SABA rescue type is essential.
Emergency Protocol When No Personal Inhaler is Available
If severe breathing difficulty occurs and no personal rescue inhaler is available, or the borrowed one cannot be confirmed as a SABA, the priority shifts to non-pharmacological interventions and professional help. The most important action is to call the local emergency services number, such as 911, right away. Call immediately if the person’s lips or fingernails are turning blue, or if they are unable to speak in full sentences. Emergency services can provide support over the phone until paramedics arrive.
The affected person should immediately stop all activity and sit upright, as this position allows the lungs to expand more fully. Encourage slow, steady breaths, inhaling through the nose and exhaling slowly through the mouth; this helps prevent hyperventilation and manage panic. Moving away from potential triggers, such as smoke or pet dander, is also important. Remaining calm helps prevent the tightening of chest muscles, which can worsen the attack until medical help arrives.