Answers from
The Pharmacists
America Trusts^SM

Answer:You are encouraged to rinse your mouth right after using an asthma inhaler—not only to remove the aftertaste, but more important, to avoid developing an oral fungal infection. You can rinse your mouth with water, or drink milk or a soft drink, for example, to remove the taste an inhaler may leave in your mouth.

Tasting your inhaled medication, however, often is an indication of poor inhaler technique. Proper inhaler technique ensures the delivery of the desirable amount of medicine to your lungs and less medicine residue in your mouth.

Even with good technique, however, it is important to rinse your mouth when you are taking certain drugs called inhaled corticosteroids (ICs)—for example, Flovent® (fluticasone) or Azmacort® (triamcinolone). The residue these medications can leave in your mouth increases your chance of developing an oral fungal infection such as thrush (oral candidiasis). Review your inhaler technique with your doctor or pharmacist to minimize your chances of developing an oral fungal infection, and be sure to read all the patient information supplied with your medication. If you are not certain if your inhaled medication requires rinsing your mouth afterward, ask your pharmacist.

Explore our Asthma Center for more treatment information.

Visit the Walgreens.com Health Library to learn more about using a metered dose asthma inhaler and about thrush.

Learn more about your medication.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment of your medical condition. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of the scientific literature may vary. Walgreens' terms of use and general warranty disclaimer apply to all services provided. If you are in need of immediate medical attention, contact your physician, poison control center or emergency medical professional. If you need to speak with a pharmacist for non-emergency matters, contact your local Walgreens pharmacist or call a Walgreens.com pharmacist toll-free at 1-877-250-5823.