Generic prescribing of inhalers should be avoided as this might lead to patients being given an unfamiliar inhaler device which they are not able to use properly. Different products and doses are licensed for different age groups and some may be applicable only to older children or adults (aged 18 years and over). Prior to prescribing, the relevant Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) should be checked.

Some inhalers contain extra-fine particles (Qvar), making them more potent than others (Clenil). Take care to prescribe by brand