Sustainability and choice of inhaled treatment for obstructive pulmonary diseases

Inhaled treatments are essential for obstructive lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDI) use propellant gases, contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and thereby to climate change. The use of dry powder inhalers (DPI) or soft mist inhalers (SMI) when clinically appropriate is a way to reduce these emissions. It is essential to confirm the diagnosis, promote adherence and therapeutic education, and support effective recycling policies and the development of less polluting treatments. In any case, the right inhaler is the one that suits the patient, is used correctly, and stabilizes of the respiratory condition.