A metered dose inhaler sends a measured amount of medicine to the airways in you lungs. Your inhaler also has a spacer. The spacer increases the amount of medicine that goes to your airways. You must use the inhaler the right way for it to work. Here's how.
First wash your hands with soap and water. Then check the use-by date on the inhaler. Also, check that the metal canister is put correctly into the plastic boot. Then check the counter on the inhaler. Make sure the inhaler still has doses left.
Remove the cap from the inhaler mouthpiece. Shake the inhaler several times. If this is the first time you are using the inhaler, prime it as directed. Priming means making sure it is ready to use. Prime the inhaler in the air away from your face.
Next, remove the cap from the spacer mouthpiece. Look into the mouthpiece to make sure nothing is in the spacer. Attach the inhaler to the spacer.
Now stand or sit up straight. Take a deep breath in, tilting your head back slightly, and try to blow all the air out of your lungs. Put the mouthpiece of the spacer in your mouth, past your teeth and above your tongue. Close your lips tightly around it. Always keep your chin level.
Press down on the canister one time to release the medicine. Then breathe in slowly and deeply until all of the medicine in the spacer is gone, or as long as directed by the information listed in the package insert.
If your spacer has a whistle, hearing it means you are breathing in too quickly.
Remove the spacer mouthpiece from your mouth and close your lips. Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds, if you can. Then breathe out slowly through your mouth.
Repeat these steps for each puff of medicine. Wait at least 15 seconds to 1 minute before taking the next puff or as long as directed.
If you have a steroid inhaler, swish, rinse, and gargle with water after using it to prevent thrush, a fungal infection. Spit the water out. Don't swallow it.
Clean your inhaler and spacer after every use, or as directed.