Use a "greener" inhaler if you can, they said to patients

People with asthma are encouraged to use "greener" inhalers by the NHS, if it suits them.

About 70% of the inhalers used in the UK are types with high levels of greenhouse gases – compared to around 10% in Sweden.

The National Institute for Excellence in Health and Care says that "green" dry powder inhalers contain 25 times fewer pollutants.

As indicated, not everyone could use them, but more could.

This is the first time that NICE addresses the carbon footprint of a drug.

This is a reaction to the 10-year NHS plan released earlier this year, which recommended greater emphasis on environmentally-friendly approaches in health services.

Wide variation in the carbon footprint of inhalers

Some inhalers, called metered-dose inhalers, contain propellants called hydrofluorocarbons to quickly deliver the drug to the patient during an asthma attack.

These have an estimated carbon footprint of 500 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per dose.

This means that five doses of one person equals a nine-mile ride in a typical car.

In comparison, dry powder inhalers contain 20 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per dose, but are only recommended for people with less severe attacks.

More than 5 million people use inhalers in the UK.

Professor NICE, Gillian Leng, said patients should talk to the health staff about what inhalers are best for them.

"People who need to use metered-dose inhalers must absolutely continue to do so, but if you have a choice of a green option, think of the environment.

"Reducing carbon emissions is good news for everyone, especially for people with respiratory problems."

Dr. Samantha Walker, of Asthma UK, said: "If anyone is considering changing an inhaler or needs advice, we recommend that they consult their general practitioner or specialist nurse in the clinic. asthma."