Avoid asthma spray in the mouth

Asthma Spray: Prevent fungal infections in the mouth with proper technique

Fungal infections in the mouth can be triggered by drugs with cortisone. Especially with drugs for asthma and other lung diseases, this phenomenon has often been observed. The fungal diseases are forced by deposited particles of drugs in the mouth, which suppress the immune system there. The affected then suffer from a fungal disease in the mouth.

Fungal diseases often after administration of inhalations
The occurrence in this context is by no means rare. Alone 40,000 patients were affected in the last year of 2009 in Germany. This is reported by the German Drug Testing Institute (DAPI). This value could be determined on the basis of anonymized data from persons with statutory health insurance. In the analysis, the institute included all insured persons who were given a medication for fungal infections about 30 days after the cortisone inhalation. But you can prevent infection, as Professor Martin Schulz explains: "The side effect of fungal infection in the mouth can often be avoided." Experience has shown that fungal infestation is less common if patients inhale immediately before a meal or rinse their mouth with water after inhalation. " according to Professor Martin Schulz, DAPI's Director of Pharmacy.

Proper inhalation important
In addition, the risk of infection can be avoided by the correct inhalation technique. However, the right technique depends on the prescribed drug. Patients with propellant-driven metered-dose inhalers should inhale slowly and deeply. Patients with other preparations for asthma, on the other hand, should breathe in quickly and deeply as the release of the drug is triggered by the breath. Intermediate pieces („spacer“) make the right application easier depending on the condition and size. In addition, intermediate pieces help to deposit less unwanted particles in the mouth area. For all inhalations, sufferers should hold their breath for a few seconds after inhaling. (sb, 20.10.2010)

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Picture credits: Andreas Morlok