Breathing problems: Using a metered-dose inhaler

How to use a metered-dose inhaler

To get started using your metered-dose inhaler (MDI):

1. Talk with your doctor to be sure that you are using your MDI correctly. It might help if you practice using it in front of a mirror. Use the inhaler exactly as your doctor has prescribed.
2. Check that you have the correct medicine. If you use several inhalers, put a label on each one so that you know which one to use at the right time.
3. Check how much medicine is in the inhaler. Check the label of your inhaler medicine to see how many inhalations should be in the canister. If you know how many breaths you can take, you can replace your inhaler before you run out. Learn how to test your canister to estimate how much medicine is left. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you with this.
4. Use a spacer if you have problems getting the correct timing when you use an inhaler or if you are using corticosteroids.

Using a spacer with an MDI is the most efficient way to get the most medicine to your lungs.

• View a slideshow on the correct way for a child to use an MDIwith a spacer .
• View a slideshow on the correct way for an adult to use an MDIwith a spacer .

Although using an MDI with a spacer is usually recommended, you can also use an MDI without a spacer. View a slideshow on the correct way for an adult or child to use an MDIwithout a spacer .

If you are using a corticosteroid inhaler, rinse your mouth out with water after use. Do not swallow the water. Swallowing the water will increase the chance that the medicine will get into your bloodstream. This may increase the side effects of the medicine.

Some powder may build up on the inhaler, but it is not necessary to clean the inhaler every day. Occasionally rinse the spacer or mouthpiece, cap, and case.

Test Your Knowledge

1. Using a spacer with an MDI is the most efficient way to get the most medicine to your lungs.

1. True
2. False

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Cynthia Tank	Last Updated: May 8, 2008
Medical Review:	Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Ken Y. Yoneda, MD - Pulmonology
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