An inhaler has a canister of medication and a mouthpiece. Pressing on the canister releases a mist of medicine that is inhaled into the lungs.
It is best to also use a spacer or chamber. A spacer is a tube that allows the medicine to be more easily breathed. Spacers are helpful for all patients, especially young children and older adults. MDIs work best with a spacer.
Ask your Primary Care Provider (PCP) to prescribe a spacer. MDIs and spacers are both covered services for HFS clients.
Take all your medications with you when you have an appointment with your PCP. It is important to talk to your PCP about all the medications you take.
Ask about the directions of how to use your MDI. How often should you use it? Make sure you understand if it is a rescue inhaler to be used when you have symptoms, or if it is for daily use, even if you feel well.
Knowing how to properly use your MDI is important. This ensures that the right amount of medicine goes into your airways.
Follow the steps below to correctly use an MDI. Watch this video to learn more about using a spacer or chamber. Watch this video if you use an MDI without a spacer or chamber.
- Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright.
- Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out.
- Hold the inhaler in one of three ways. The first way is to hold the inhaler one to two inches from your mouth. The second way is to put your mouth on the end of the spacer. If the first two options are not available, place the inhaler in your mouth.
- Press down on the inhaler to release the medicine as you breathe slowly. Breathe slowly for three to five seconds.
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds. This allows the medicine to go deeply into the lungs.
- Repeat puffs as directed. Wait one minute between puffs.
