Symbolic representation of asthma and the potential relief from an inhaler.

Are You Getting the Most Out of Your Asthma Treatment? Uncovering Factors Affecting Inhaler Use

Jordan Keane in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"New research reveals surprising reasons why many asthma patients aren't using their inhaled corticosteroids as prescribed, and what can be done about it."

Asthma affects millions worldwide, and while there's no cure, effective management is possible. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are a cornerstone of treatment for persistent asthma, helping to control airway inflammation and prevent symptoms. However, many individuals don't utilize these medications as prescribed, leading to poorer health outcomes.

A cross-sectional study conducted at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia sheds light on the factors contributing to ICS underutilization. The research, involving 131 persistent asthmatic patients, explored the reasons behind this concerning trend, offering valuable insights for patients and healthcare providers alike.

This article delves into the study's findings, examining the key barriers to proper ICS use and providing actionable information to help you optimize your asthma management. We'll explore the impact of income, knowledge, attitudes, and access to medication, empowering you to take control of your respiratory health.

Why Aren't People Using Their Inhalers Correctly? Unpacking the Barriers

Symbolic representation of asthma and the potential relief from an inhaler.

The study revealed that a significant 68% of participants were underutilizing their ICS medications. This means they weren't using them as frequently or in the correct dosage as recommended by asthma guidelines. Several factors emerged as key contributors:

Financial Constraints: A staggering 44% of patients cited unaffordability as the primary reason for not using their ICS medications as prescribed.
Symptom-Based Usage: 21% of participants only used their inhalers when symptoms flared up, rather than consistently as a preventative measure.
Concerns about Side Effects: 10% of patients expressed fear of side effects, leading them to avoid or reduce their ICS use.
Lack of Knowledge: A significant portion of patients lacked a comprehensive understanding of asthma and the role of ICS medications in managing the condition.
Inconsistent Availability: 7% reported that ICS medications were not consistently available in their local market.

These factors highlight the complex interplay of economic, educational, and logistical challenges that can hinder effective asthma management. It's not simply a matter of access; patients need the resources, knowledge, and support to use their medications correctly.

Taking Control: Optimizing Your Asthma Treatment

The study underscores the urgent need for multifaceted interventions to address ICS underutilization. This includes improving access to affordable medications, enhancing patient education, and developing culturally appropriate asthma management guidelines.

Here are some actionable steps you can take to improve your asthma management:

<ul><li>Talk to Your Doctor: Discuss your concerns about medication costs, side effects, or any other barriers you're facing. Your doctor can help you find solutions, such as alternative medications or patient assistance programs.</li><li>Educate Yourself: Learn as much as you can about asthma and the role of ICS medications in controlling your symptoms.</li><li>Adhere to Your Treatment Plan: Use your ICS medications as prescribed, even when you're feeling well. This will help prevent flare-ups and improve your long-term respiratory health.</li><li>Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that promote access to affordable medications and improve asthma care in your community.</li></ul>

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1186/s13104-017-2645-2, Alternate LINK

Title: Assessment Of Inhaled Corticosteroids Use And Associated Factors Among Asthmatic Patients Attending Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia

Subject: General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Journal: BMC Research Notes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Authors: Yohanes Ayele, Ephrem Engidawork, Tola Bayisa

Published: 2017-07-25

Everything You Need To Know

What is the role of Inhaled Corticosteroids (ICS) in managing asthma, and why is it important?

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are a crucial part of managing asthma. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which helps to prevent asthma symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Using ICS as prescribed is essential for keeping asthma under control and preventing severe asthma attacks. Underutilization of ICS can lead to increased inflammation and more frequent, severe asthma episodes.

What are the primary reasons why people might not be using their Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications as prescribed?

Several factors can prevent people from using their Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications correctly. Financial constraints, such as the medication being unaffordable, are a major barrier. Many individuals only use their ICS when they experience asthma symptoms, instead of regularly as recommended. Concerns about potential side effects also deter some people from using their ICS as prescribed. A lack of understanding about asthma and the role of ICS medications contributes to the problem, as does the inconsistent availability of the medications.

What percentage of participants in the study were found to be underutilizing their Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications?

The study found that 68% of participants were not using their Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications as they should. This means they weren't taking the medication as often as prescribed or in the right dosage. This underutilization is a serious problem because it can lead to poor asthma control and a lower quality of life. It highlights the need for better strategies to help people manage their asthma effectively.

What are the key strategies that could help people better manage their asthma and properly use their Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications?

Improving access to affordable Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications is crucial for better asthma management. Patient education can help people understand the importance of regular ICS use and how to manage their asthma effectively. Developing asthma management guidelines that consider cultural differences can ensure that treatment plans are appropriate and effective for everyone. These actions can collectively empower patients to take control of their respiratory health and improve their asthma outcomes.

What steps can someone take if they are struggling to use their Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medications effectively?

If you are experiencing financial difficulties, talk to your healthcare provider about potential assistance programs or alternative, more affordable medications. Ensure you fully understand your asthma and the purpose of your Inhaled Corticosteroid (ICS) medication through educational resources from your doctor. If you're worried about side effects, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider. Always take your ICS medication as prescribed, even when you feel well, to keep your asthma under control and reduce the risk of flare-ups.