Can you OVERDOSE on inhalers?

Can you overdose on inhalers? Inhalers are very safe treatments and most people do not develop major side effects. That being said, sometimes people can take too many puffs, sometimes because they are not using the right inhalation technique, and think they need to take more to feel an effect.
Even so, it is usually hard to overdose on inhalers, because the dose of medication is so low (only being designed to treat the airways, and not being absorbed much into the rest of the body).

Generally, when you take too much, you may experience side effects depending on the inhaled medication and your personal medical history (other conditions you may have).

For blue inhalers (Ventolin / salbutamol), usually when taking many puffs one after the other, you may feel some jitters. In patients with pre-existing heart disease or those who are prone to abnormal heart rhythms, this may cause some problems, so it is important to train yourself to have the right technique for inhalation. Ask your doctor for further details in your case.

For inhaled corticosteroids, it is very hard to overdose, because the inhaled dose is very low (much less than in an equivalent tablet that you would swallow). However, using poor technique and taking more than indicated may lead to side effects such as a hoarse voice or mouth and throat candidiasis.

For inhaled antimuscarinics (e.g. ipratropium, tiotropium, glycopyrronium), when you take too much, there is a theoretical risk of causing some problems in people with pre-existing glaucoma, or prostate problems (may cause urine retention). However, at most usual doses, the risk of these side effects is quite low.

I strongly recommend that you talk to your doctor about your inhalers, the right doses in your case and what to do when you get a flare-up of your condition (when you would be tempted to take a lot of puffs to relieve your symptoms). Sometimes some minor side effects are inevitable if the inhaler helps you stop a more severe problem (such as a severe asthma attack). It depends from person to person. Always follow your own doctor's instructions.

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For all viewers/listeners:
The information presented here or in other videos and posts on this channel is not medical advice. These materials reflect general medical knowledge which may not apply to your individual case. If you have health concerns, please see your own doctor or other healthcare provider without delay.

For medical professionals:
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