How to use a metered-dose inhaler
To get started using your metered-dose inhaler (MDI):
- Talk with your health professional 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 health professional has
prescribed.
- Check that you have the correct medication. If you use
several inhalers, put a label on each one so that you know which one to use at
the right time.
- Check how much medication is in the inhaler. Check
the label of your inhaler medication 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 medication is left. Your health professional or pharmacist can help you
with this.
- 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 medication to your lungs. View a
slideshow
on the correct way to use an MDI with 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 to use an MDI without 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 medication will get into your bloodstream. This
may increase the side effects of the medication.
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
Using a spacer with an MDI is the most efficient way
to get the most medication to your lungs.
- True
- False
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Using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI)