What does a brown inhaler do?

For Asthma, patients are often prescribed two types of inhalers. Manufacturers of inhalers have standardized the colors of the plastic holders for inhalers to reduce confusion. The blue inhaler is used for immediate relief; it is often called a rescue inhaler. It is used when you have immediate symptoms. It is not quite a PRN "as needed" medication because, while you can use it for rescue/immediate symptoms, it cannot be used more than the maximum number of times per day that you've been instructed to use it. In fact, if you find yourself needing it more than the number of times prescribed as the maximum per day, your doctor needs to know so he can adjust the dose or timing of your maintenance inhaler. Rescue inhalers should only be used when you truly need it.

The brown inhaler is referred to as a maintenance inhaler. It is used on a regular prescribed basis to reduce symptoms and prevent further attacks. You use the maintenance inhaler whether you feel symptoms or not. It is intended to keep your airways open by reducing inflammation and irritation on a regular basis.