Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
757137 tn?1347196453

Inhalers - dry powder

I have looked all over the internet to find out what danger the powder itself might represent. And found not a whisper. So what happens to it? Does it forever lie in your lungs? Is it an irritant? My thanks for any information.
10 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
746512 tn?1388807580
yes advair DPI has lactose it in.  As far as I know all dry powder inhalers have lactose because it is the "carrier" for the medication to get it into the lungs.

Advair does have the normal inhaler - HFA which is lactose free.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Do you know if Advair  has lactose powder in it?
Helpful - 0
757137 tn?1347196453
I have eliminated all of the powder inhalers. Even though my doctor claims they don't create a problem, I feel they do.
Helpful - 0
746512 tn?1388807580
There can be a problem with some of the powders - most are lactose powder.  Your body would absorb it and transport it through your blood stream and out of your system - unless you are allergic to dairy.

I always noticed that my lungs felt tighter after using a powder inhaler (although not presentable at the doctor's office - always seemed to be a cumilative affect over time) and guess what - I'm allergic to lactose and dairy protein!  The medicine I was taking to counteract the allergic lung symptoms actually was introducing more allergens into my system .... go figure.

The amount of powder is small - yes, only the most sensitive of those should react - sure.  BUT those with asthma already have "twitchy" lungs that are very sensitive so WHY IN THE WORLD would they use a powder that is one of the 8 most common food allergies?  Especially when those with asthma already are at a higher risk of funky immune systems and allergies.

Your choice - but I completely disagree with any of the powder inhalers that use lactose powder as a carrier for the medicine.
Helpful - 0
757137 tn?1347196453
Thanks. This is the information I needed.
Helpful - 0
144586 tn?1284666164
Ordinary pharmaceuticals contain fillers which will remain on the lungs indefinitely. The so-called "powders" used in asthma medications dissolve and do not remain in particulate form on the alveoli and this is not an issue.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal

Hi allmymarbles,

One allergy medication which is in powder form and that you inhale is
called Pulmicort.   Pulmicort does have cortisone in it, however, as far as
I know, there are no dangers taking this medication. It is important to rinse
your mouth after inhaling this medication.  Bricanyl Turbuhaler is in powder
form too. I take both of these to control my asthma and have done for
many years on the advice of my family doctor. I hope this helps. Eve

Helpful - 0
6431644 tn?1381239876
The powder inhalers tend to dull the taste buds over time. I have learned with any inhaler it is best if you place your tongue under the guard as to get the most effect of the medication and to avoid losing the medication to your tongue.
Helpful - 0
757137 tn?1347196453
I am talking about the meds in powder form that you inhale.  Information on any powder used in this manner would be appreciated.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal

Hello there,

What powder are you talking about ? Are you perhaps talking about
asthma meds that are in powder form? What powder specifically ?
I need more information in order to offer a suggestion. Eve
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Asthma Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Find out what causes asthma, and how to take control of your symptoms.
Find out if your city is a top "allergy capital."
Find out which foods you should watch out for.
If you’re one of the 35 million Americans who suffer from hay fever, read on for what plants are to blame, where to find them and how to get relief.
Allergist Dr. Lily Pien answers Medhelp users' most pressing allergy-related questions
When you start sniffling and sneezing, you know spring has sprung. Check out these four natural remedies to nix spring allergies.