What's a Rescue Inhaler?

A rescue inhaler dispenses medication called a bronchodilator, which expands or dilates the airways, making it easier to breathe. It is used to relieve or stop the symptoms of an asthma attack. Rescue inhalers also help clear mucus from the lungs.

Which inhaler is a rescue inhaler?

What types of rescue inhalers are available? There are two rescue inhaler medications that are commonly used in the U.S.: albuterol and levalbuterol.

Is a rescue inhaler different than a regular inhaler?

Inhalers contain either short-acting or long-acting medicines. Short-acting medicines relax and open the breathing tubes in the lungs. These are called rescue inhalers because they work quickly and help “rescue” a person if breathing suddenly becomes difficult. Long-acting inhalers are used daily.