Figure 4
Environmental impact of inhaler prescribing. (A) Number of dry powder inhalers (DPIs) dispensed against metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) dispensed. DPIs are considered to be less harmful to the environment as they do not emit potent greenhouse gases (GHGs) (though it should be noted that DPIs have a larger environmental impact in other areas14). Shows divergence since around the start of 2018, followed by a trend towards convergence starting late 2021. (B) Number of inhalers prescribed for brands of inhalers with smaller (Salamol) and higher (Ventolin) carbon footprints15. Together, these inhalers account for around 50% of all SABA prescribing. DPI dry powder inhalers, MDI metered-dose inhalers, NHS National Health Service, SABA short-acting beta agonist.
