*Important*

The NENC ICB Respiratory Network recommends that all inhalers should be prescribed by brand for patient safety, to ensure that the correct device is dispensed to support correct technique and avoid patient confusion and medication errors.

Choice of inhaler device should be based on patient ability to use. Devices should be chosen based on availability for the type of drug to be prescribed and the patient’s ability to use it.

Refer to local guidelines for information on preferred options.

Note: All new patients should be started on the updated formulary choices as per local/national guidelines.

When inhalers are removed from the formulary, existing, stable, patients should continue to receive the non-formulary device. Treatment should not be changed unless a full face to face review has been conducted.

Seldom indicated. Modified release formulations must be prescribed by brand name. 

Asthma: consider for patients not controlled on LABA plus inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) discontinue if no benefit see national guidelines.

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