Patient Information Blogs
How to Use Inhalers
Courtesy by: Dr. Nagman Bashir; Consultant Physician, Medicsi
23/05/2024
The control of asthma or COPD depends on the proper technique of inhaler use. Inhalers are of two types.
- MDIs (Metered Dose Inhalers) and
- DPIs (Dry Powder Inhalers).
It is utmost important to use these correctly. If you are prescribed MDIs, then DO NOT use these directly into your mouth. Instead, ALWAYS use these with SPACERS.
Place the inhaler into the spacer. Put the mouthpiece of the spacer in your mouth. Press the inhaler ONCE to spray the medicine into the spacer. Take FIVE slow smooth deep breaths in and out of the spacer. Once done, remove the spacer from your mouth and continue normal breathing. After two minutes, repeat the same steps. It is always advisable to use BEFORE meals.
If you are using DPIs the technique is different. Place one capsule of medicine into the appropriate device. Puncture the capsules in the device. Exhale deeply. Place the mouthpiece into your mouth. Inhale as quickly and forcefully as possible to pull all powder medicines deep into your lungs.
The technique of inhaling medicines from a disc-type inhaler is the same as DPIs, a deep forceful quick inhalation.
Remember to use MDIs with slow deep breaths and DPIs with quick forceful inhalation.
