How To Use A Metered-dose Inhaler
How to use an inhaler
Each inhaler consists of a small canister of medicine connected to a mouthpiece. The canister is pressurized. As you press down on the canister, it releases a mist of medicine. You breathe that mist into your lungs. It’s important to use your inhaler correctly. Otherwise, your airways will not receive the right amount of medicine. Read and follow all instructions that come with your inhaler.
Steps to correctly use an inhaler:
- Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright.
- If your doctor recommends, use a spacer (a hollow, plastic chamber) to filter the medicine between the inhaler and your mouth. The chamber protects your throat from irritation from the medicine. Note: Check your insurance plan as some may not cover spacers.
- Stand or sit up straight.
- Shake the inhaler.
- Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out all the way.
- Put the inhaler in your mouth.
- Press down on the inhaler quickly to release the medicine as you start to breathe in slowly.
- Breathe in slowly for 3 to 5 seconds.
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds to allow medicine to go deeply into your lungs.
- Breathe out slowly.
- Repeat puffs as directed by your doctor. Wait 1 minute before taking the second puff.
Some inhalers (such as steroid inhalers) also recommend rinsing your mouth out with water and gargling with water (spit out the water) after use.
These instructions are for a metered-dose inhaler only. Inhaled dry-powder inhalers are used differently. To use a dry powder inhaler, close your mouth tightly around the mouthpiece and breathe in quickly.
Talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
