Environmental Effects of Inhaler Formulations

Overview

Inhalers for asthma and COPD in the US generate emissions equivalent to 530,000 cars annually. Most inhaler-related emissions come from short-acting β-agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, and combined therapies.

Background

The environmental impact of inhalers is significant, with metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) contributing the majority of emissions. Understanding the barriers to the adoption of lower-emission inhalers is crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of respiratory therapies.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source material.

Key Findings

• Inhalers for asthma and COPD produce emissions comparable to 530,000 cars annually.
• 98% of inhaler-related emissions come from SABAs, ICSs, and ICS-LABAs.
• Only 33% of commercial insurance plans cover dry powder alternatives for SABAs.
• Out-of-pocket costs for dry powder SABAs are significantly higher than for metered-dose products.
• Generic competition affects the pricing and coverage of inhalers.
• Current insurance structures may hinder the adoption of low-emission inhalers.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should be aware of the environmental impact of inhalers.

Conclusion

Addressing the environmental effects of inhalers requires consideration of prescribing practices and insurance policies.

Related Resources & Content

1. Parthasarathi et al, Environmental Health, 2023 -- Use and Out-of-Pocket Costs of Inhaler Devices by Payer Type and Estimated Carbon Dioxide Emissions
2. Global Initiative for Asthma, GINA 2026 Strategy Report -- Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention 2026
3. the medicine maker — Breathing Easy
4. the medicine maker — In-vitro bioequivalence studies
5. the medicine maker — The Next (Air)Wave of Inhalables
6. the medicine maker — Green Propellants and the Future of Metered Dose Inhalers
7. Breathing Easy
8. In-vitro bioequivalence studies
9. The Next (Air)Wave of Inhalables
10. Green Propellants and the Future of Metered Dose Inhalers
11. Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention 2026
12. MHRA approves world's first lower-carbon beclometasone inhalers for patients with asthma - GOV.UK