PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Certain medications commonly used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can damage the environment and worsen respiratory issues.
The issue surrounds metered-dose inhalers, which have more than 1,000 times the global warming potential as carbon dioxide. According to an article in the New England Journal of Medicine, other options can be used, including dry powder and soft-mist inhalers, but they are unsuitable for young children and frail adults.
In addition, these delivery systems are often far more expensive and not included in many insurance plans.
No one should stop using their present medications, but it is worth a conversation with your doctor to see if you can use a more environmentally friendly delivery system.
Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.