Breathing problems: Using a dry powder inhaler

Why should I use a dry powder inhaler?

A dry powder inhaler:

• Is simple to use. Because the dry powder inhaler is breath-activated, you don't have to pump the inhaler and breathe at the same time like you do with other inhalers. The medicine stays in the inhaler until you breathe in.
• Gets the right amount of medicine into your lungs right away.
• Can help keep your symptoms under control and minimize long-term damage to your lungs.
• May prevent or reduce side effects compared to taking the same medicine in pill form.

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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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