Your Inhaler And Using It

This is your metered dose inhaler (MDI). It's a small, portable aerosol device that delivers medication so it can be inhaled. The medication is dissolved or suspended in a liquid contained in this small canister. The canister fits into the mouthpiece and will release a set amount of medication or metered dose.

Using your inhaler the right way is important in
getting the most from your medication.

Steps to properly using your inhaler.

  1. Put the inhaler together.
  1. Shake the canister rigorously to mix the medication. Inadequate mixing may result in a less than full dose being delivered.
  1. Remove the cap from the mouthpiece.
  1. Hold the canister with your index finger on top and your thumb on the bottom. Position the canister mouthpiece between 1 1/2 and 2 inches in front of your mouth. Important: Do not place the mouthpiece in your mouth with your lips closed around it.
  1. Exhale gently and completely through your mouth.
  1. Inhale slowly and deeply, with your mouth open, and depress the top of the canister with your index finger. Timing is important, so do not activate the inhaler until you have started to breathe in.
  1. Close your mouth and hold your breath for at least 10 seconds or as long as you can comfortably. Breathe normally after exhaling.
  1. If two puffs are prescribed, wait 5 minutes before taking the second one. This allows the first puff to dilate the airways, allowing the second puff to penetrate more deeply into the bronchial tree.

  2. Rinse thoroughly to wash away excess medication from your mouth and throat. This helps prevent fungal infections.
Know how much medication you have.
Learn how to tell when you are running empty.

To find out how much inhalant is left in the canister, drop it into a pan of water. Its position in the water tells you how much inhalant remains.