Inhaler use...

[Moto-X Alex]

I have had asthma since I was 23. At 35, I feel like I have had every test and tried almost every medication- and they have changed a lot over the past 10 yrs.

Albuterol works great for me, but I have to use it a lot. I have not tried any other medication that works as well and allows me to have as normal of a life. I seem to get a lot of flack however in trying to get my prescription refilled. I use the inhaler well beyond the recommended 2-3 puffs 2-3 times per day, but I only use it when I start getting restricted.

I have been intibated several times, and using my inhaled is not a knee-jerk reaction. I know when to use it, and I sure as heck would rather use it than go to the ER. (which is still do every 3 months or so).

What do you guys find to be the most effective treatment day to day? Do you have problems feeling like your physician prescribes for YOU or prescribes you to a medication?

Alex

[wrin]

I'm going to say it doesn't sound to me like your asthma is very in-control. There are other drugs that can help keep you from getting as-tight during the day, things like long-acting bronchodilators (Oxeze, Foradil, Serevent,) and inhaled corticosteroids. A lot of doctors forget about the long-acting bronchodilators (not so much anymore because of this advair thing) but they have a nice place.

And you might want to consider switching your rescue drug from ventolin to combivent (ventolin and atrovent), works a little better, lasts a little longer.

[N2golf]

Boy can I relate! My asthma is not under control at all...the problem is, I too use albuterol which only lasts so long and I HATE trying new things because I feel like I have been through the wringer through the years with Dr's saying...try this or let's try that etc...My daughter takes Singulair every night and it seems to do him WONDERS! Try that. I heard it's good stuff....I just HATE taking meds! I like more of something natural that I am still seeking.

Good Luck!

[CapsFan]

Honestly, it sounds like your asthma is not under control at all. I was in your shoes for years (I've had asthma for 21 years).

Albuterol is a rescue drug. It shouldn't be something you have to depend on every day just to breathe. And you can OD on it - and that's not fun, trust me.

You should see a pulmonary specialist. That's who finally got mine under control, and it only took him a couple months to determine which drugs worked best for me with the least amount of medication.

I now use one inhaled coritosteroid (Flovent 110) twice a day. That's it - I no longer even need Serevent. My albuterol gets used so infrequently it expired on me!

There are lots of options out there for you. And if a doctor gives you grief or limited options, find a new one.