How often should patients with asthma replace their inhalers?

Patients with asthma should replace their inhalers every 12 months or when they are empty, as indicated in the correct response. This guideline is based on the fact that inhalers have a specific shelf life, both before and after they are first used. Over time, the propellant used in metered-dose inhalers can degrade, which may lead to ineffective delivery of the medication.

Additionally, patients should monitor their inhaler usage and replace it when it is empty to ensure they always have access to their medications. Using the inhaler until it is empty helps prevent situations where the patient might need the medication but finds that their inhaler no longer contains a sufficient dose. Regular replacement every year promotes effective long-term management of asthma and ensures patients have their most recent medication formulation available for effective treatment.

Some options emphasize more frequent replacement, which may lead to unnecessary costs, or suggest replacing the inhaler only when symptoms worsen, which could result in inadequate asthma control. Regular and timely replacement based on use and recommended guidelines is crucial for maintaining effective management of asthma.