Doctors in Kenya have issued a warning to asthma patients, urging them to be cautious when purchasing inhalers. Jacqueline Kagima, a doctor at Kenyatta National Hospital, emphasized that an effective inhaler must contain two critical components: inhalable corticosteroids and bronchodilators.
These elements are essential for managing asthma, as corticosteroids help reduce inflammation while bronchodilators relax airway muscles to improve breathing.
Dr. Kagima cautioned against the widespread use of “blue inhalers,” which lack these components. She explained that while these inhalers are affordable—costing between Ksh200 and Ksh400—they do not provide adequate treatment for asthma.
Many patients opt for them due to their low price, unaware that they fail to address the underlying inflammation that worsens asthma symptoms.
Medical experts are calling for stricter regulations to ensure pharmacies and healthcare providers dispense inhalers that meet proper treatment standards.
Asthma remains a significant health concern, affecting millions worldwide. Patients are advised to verify the contents of their inhalers and seek medical guidance to ensure they receive effective treatment.
By Kenyans