Are Inhalers Addictive?

If you or any of your loved ones have recently been diagnosed with asthma and are thinking – “Are Inhalers Addictive?” then this detailed guide will solve your queries.

What are Inhalers?

Let us first discuss what inhalers are, the types of inhalers, and how they help individuals with respiratory conditions.

Inhalers are handy medical devices used for oral administration, thus delivering the medicine directly to the lungs to relieve symptoms of respiratory discomfort. They are commonly used for improving underlying symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, etc., thus allowing users to breathe normally.

Types of Inhalers

• Reliever inhalers – These are go-to inhalers prescribed for regular usage and desired relief from common asthma symptoms. Relievers are mainly used for enhancing respiration by relaxing airway muscles.
• Preventer inhalers – Such inhalers are steroid-based that reduce airway inflammation while preventing the development of respiratory symptoms.
• Combination inhalers – As the name suggests, they combine the effectiveness of reliever and preventer inhalers, thus being a comprehensive approach for easing respiration.
• Rescuer inhalers – These are mainly suggested for tackling emergencies where sudden breathlessness is felt and relievers can’t cope.

Medical conditions treated with Inhalers: Common respiratory disorders like asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

What is Addiction?

Addiction is a psychological response to a drug or medication, wherein the user develops the urge to take the medication to an extent that is harmful to their health. The major symptom of addiction is the uncontrolled desire to use the medicine. It is next to impossible to reduce intake or stop the same, even after knowing it is causing potential harm.

The dependence can be physical or psychological. Physical dependence happens when the body has adapted to the medication, withdrawal symptoms appear when its intake is reduced or stopped. On the other hand, psychological dependence is all about cultivating emotional or mental dependency for managing daily life stress.

To call it an addiction, here are the signs to look out for:

• Constant craving for the substance
• Inability to control usage
• Continuing usage despite the awareness of risks

Addiction vs Dependence

Addiction and dependence are like two sides of the same coin. These terms are used interchangeably to represent each other. However, a slight difference prevails. While addiction is the inability to withdraw by inducing compulsive behaviour and cravings, dependence represents physical adaptability.

In the case of inhalers, psychological addiction is not possible but the risk of physical dependence remains only if misused. If they are handled according to medical guidance, no such risk of addiction or abuse (dependence) is observed.

Can a person become addicted to Inhalers?

Asthma inhalers commonly belong to the class of drugs called corticosteroids or bronchodilators. Traditionally, they are non-addictive but can cause psychological dependence if mishandled or overused. For instance, if the patient uses it according to the prescription, the treatment goes as expected. However, if the inhaler is used more frequently than advised by the physician then it may lead towards dependency.

Some users attempt overuse for the sake of relieving anxiety or stress related to respiratory problems unknowingly that they might develop dependence. It is thus advised to stick to the dosage and frequency as guided by the physician to ensure safety and efficacy.

What are the Signs of addiction towards Inhalers?

If an individual has developed psychological addiction, he will likely develop cravings for using the inhaler more frequently than usual. This is because of the emotional reliance he has adapted to attain peace of mind. The user will want to puff the medication even if he is not experiencing any necessity of dosage. On the contrary, they’ll find anxiety if the inhaler is not accessible handy.

What Happens if a Person Overuses Inhalers?

Overuse (i.e. dosing the inhaler more than the recommended frequency by the physician) is riskier beyond your imagination. It leads to critical health impacts like irregular heartbeat, shakiness or tremors, and worsening of asthma symptoms. When the medication is misused for a prolonged duration, specifically for corticosteroid inhalers, severe side effects like loss of bone density and weakened response of the immune system are noticed.

During such sensible circumstances, it is wise to get immediate medical attention.

Monitoring Your Inhalers Use

The best way to avoid addiction or dependence towards inhalers is to monitor your usage. Practice close monitoring of your health at frequent intervals with the help of your healthcare professional. In addition, don’t use the inhalers beyond prescribed limits, stick to the ideal frequency, and consult the doctor if you sense any abnormality.

How Can I Avoid Overusing Inhalers?

The simplest way to avoid overusing inhalers is by following the ideal dosage recommendations shared by the physician. Keep track of your symptoms and behaviour before and during the treatment with the medication. Attempt mindful usage and find better ways to relieve stress and anxiety (such as meditation, breathing exercises, etc) instead of overusing inhalers.

When to seek medical attention?

You know it’s time to consult your medical care provider if you’re finding the urge to use the inhaler more frequently. Also, medical attention is needed if the symptoms persist even after dosing the inhaler as prescribed. If any unusual symptoms appear then you shall consult the doctor as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Inhalers are legitimate treatment options for managing asthma, COPD, and Bronchitis. However, making responsible use is advised to avoid any negative effects on health, including addiction.

Since we’ve come so far, you now know the answer – Are asthma inhalers addictive?

FAQs

What Happens if I Use Inhalers More Than Prescribed?

Overusing inhalers causes adverse reactions like shakiness/tremors, irregular heartbeat, or worsening respiratory symptoms.

What Should I Do If I Accidentally Overuse of Inhalers?

If overused accidentally, consult your healthcare professional so they can assess the situation and share appropriate guidance.

How Often Is It Safe to Use Inhalers?

The safety and efficacy of inhalers are determined if you stick to the prescribed dosage frequency which varies among users as per the types and severity of symptoms.