The "blue asthma inhaler" is a commonly used term for a type of inhaler that contains a medication called a short-acting beta agonist (SABA). This medication, usually albuterol or salbutamol, helps to quickly relieve symptoms of asthma by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe. It's typically used for quick relief during asthma attacks or for preventing exercise-induced asthma symptoms. The blue color of the inhaler is often used to differentiate it from other types of inhalers, such as those containing corticosteroids for long-term control of asthma symptoms, which may come in different colors like red or brown.