Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Inhalers deliver medication directly into the lungs to manage these symptoms. While an inhaler can provide immediate relief, using one not prescribed to you carries significant health risks.
Immediate Health Risks
Using an unprescribed asthma inhaler can lead to several immediate dangers. You might experience an allergic reaction to unknown ingredients, with symptoms ranging from skin rash and itching to severe responses like swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty breathing, indicating anaphylaxis. Some inhalers contain “inactive” ingredients, such as dyes or preservatives, that can also trigger adverse reactions. Combining an unprescribed inhaler with other medications can result in adverse drug interactions. For instance, beta-blockers can decrease the effectiveness of some asthma medications, while certain antidepressants may lead to heart rhythm problems when used concurrently with specific inhaler components.
Incorrect dosage is another concern. The medication in a borrowed inhaler might be too strong or too weak for your specific needs, potentially worsening asthma symptoms or causing serious side effects. High doses of short-acting beta2-agonists, a common rescue medication, have been associated with cardiovascular effects like palpitations and changes in blood pressure. Common side effects from incorrect dosing include increased heart rate, tremors, headaches, and heightened anxiety. The medication may not be appropriate for your specific type or severity of asthma, making it ineffective or even harmful.
Why Inhalers Are Personalized
Asthma treatment is highly individualized because the condition presents differently in each person. Healthcare providers tailor prescriptions based on a patient’s unique symptoms, triggers, and asthma severity. Different categories of inhalers serve distinct purposes. Rescue inhalers, like those with albuterol, provide quick relief during an acute attack by relaxing airway muscles. Controller or preventer inhalers, often containing corticosteroids, are used daily to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms over time.
Dosages vary significantly based on factors like age, weight, and asthma severity. For example, inhaled steroids are available in low, medium, or high doses to match patient requirements. Genetic factors can also influence how a person responds to certain asthma medications. Using an inhaler with the wrong type of medication or an inappropriate dose can render treatment ineffective or cause harm.
Beyond the Medical Risks
Sharing an asthma inhaler poses other significant dangers, primarily related to infection transmission. Inhalers come into direct contact with a person’s mouth and respiratory tract, making them potential carriers for various microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast, is a common infection from shared or improperly cleaned inhalers, especially those containing corticosteroids.
Using a prescription medication not specifically prescribed to you also carries legal and ethical implications. In many jurisdictions, possession or use of prescription drugs without a valid prescription is illegal. Penalties can include substantial fines, jail time, and a criminal record. Additionally, using a borrowed inhaler may mask underlying medical issues, delaying proper diagnosis and treatment for your own condition.
What to Do Instead
If you are experiencing asthma symptoms or an asthma attack and do not have your own inhaler, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services (e.g., 911 or 999) if symptoms are severe, your rescue inhaler is not providing relief, or you have no inhaler. While waiting for help, take actions to manage your breathing:
- Sit upright to help keep airways open.
- Remain calm and focus on steadying your breathing, as panic can worsen symptoms.
- Move away from any known asthma triggers, such as smoke or allergens.
- Sip a hot caffeinated beverage, which may slightly open airways.
To prevent future emergencies, obtain a proper diagnosis and your own personalized inhaler prescription from a healthcare professional. A doctor can diagnose asthma through a physical examination, lung function tests (e.g., spirometry or peak flow measurements), and potentially allergy testing. Your healthcare provider will also work with you to develop a personalized asthma action plan, outlining how and when to use your medications and what steps to take if symptoms worsen.