Expired Inhalers: Risks, Alternatives, and What to Do Next

When you reach for your expired inhalers, handheld devices that deliver medication directly to the lungs for asthma or COPD. Also known as rescue inhalers, they’re meant to work instantly when you’re struggling to breathe. But if the date on the canister has passed, you can’t trust it to do its job. Studies show that after expiration, inhalers can lose up to 40% of their active ingredient—even if they still spray. That’s not just ineffective; it’s risky. If you’re having an asthma attack and your inhaler doesn’t work, you could end up in the ER.

It’s not just about the drug breaking down. The propellant inside the canister can also weaken over time, meaning the mist won’t reach deep into your lungs where it’s needed. Even if the inhaler looks fine, the dose counter might be wrong, and the valve could clog. This is especially true for older devices like albuterol inhalers, which are often kept for years. People with COPD inhalers, long-term treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and those with asthma medication, daily or rescue drugs used to control breathing problems rely on these devices daily. Skipping a dose because your inhaler is expired isn’t an option—but using a weak one isn’t either.

What should you do? First, check the expiration date every time you grab it. If it’s past that date, don’t wait until you’re in trouble. Replace it. Most pharmacies will take old inhalers for safe disposal—you can’t just toss them in the trash. If cost is an issue, ask about generic versions or patient assistance programs. Many Canadian pharmacies offer affordable alternatives to brand-name inhalers without sacrificing quality. And if you’re using an inhaler past its expiration because you can’t afford a new one, you’re not alone—but you’re also not safe.

You’ll find real stories and practical guides below on how to spot a failing inhaler, when it’s okay to use an expired one (spoiler: almost never), and what to do when you’re stuck without a replacement. We cover how to store them properly, how to tell if the medication’s still working, and which alternatives work best for different conditions. No fluff. Just what you need to keep breathing safely.