Respiratory
The aim of this section is to give practical guidance on managing medicines in asthma and COPD in support of the national guidelines
Prescribing Guidelines by Clinical Area
How to choose the right type of inhaler for your patient
Matching the type of device to the patient is critical for optimal control and adherence to treatment.
The most cost effective inhaler treatment is the one which a patient will actually use.
The NHS Somerset VENN Diagram March 2026 includes the latest updates for inhalers on formulary, with guidance on GREENER carbon friendly choices, and preferred formulary products.
NICE NG244 - Asthma pathway (BTS, NICE, SIGN)
BTS, NICE and SIGN guideline on asthma: Algorithm C: Pharmacological management of asthma in people aged 12 years and over
The Asthma 4: Asthma Attack Bundle
BTS Asthma 4: Asthma Attack Bundle Patient Record Sheet
All Wales Adult Asthma Management and Prescribing Guideline
NHS Somerset COPD Two Inhalers into One Poster
NICE NG115 - COPD in over 16s: diagnosis and management
Somerset COPD Guidance - Adopted from All Wales Guidance
Cardiopulmonary Risk Matrix
This matrix will enable a comprehensive, risk-based approach to help improve cardiopulmonary outcomes for COPD patients.
Image description - Preview for the Cardiopulmonary Risk Matrix document.
Asthma + Lung UK have produced some instructional videos on how to use the various types of inhalers and spacer devices
BTS, NICE and SIGN guideline on asthma: Algorithm C: Pharmacological management of asthma in people aged 12 years and over
BTS, NICE and SIGN guideline on asthma: Algorithm D: Pharmacological management of asthma in children aged 5 to 11 years
BTS, NICE and SIGN guideline on asthma: Algorithm E: Pharmacological management of asthma in children under 5
