How to Use a Metered-Dose Asthma Inhaler
In the previous entry, we described asthma metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) in detail. But how do we exactly use these devices?
Basically, one needs to follow these steps:
- 1. Shake the asthma inhaler well. Some sources say that this goes after removing the cap; others say that shaking goes before. Consult your general practitioner for a third opinion.
- 2. Exhale.
- 3. Bring the inhaler to your mouth, such that the latter closes around the mouthpiece. Again, different methodologies from different sources abound — some instruct the user to hold the inhaler 1-2 inches away from the mouth.
- 4. Start to slowly breathe in.
- 5. Press down on the inhaler’s canister, while continuing to inhale.
- 6. Remove the asthma inhaler from the mouth and hold your breath for 10 seconds (if possible).
- 7. If you need a second puff, wait 1 minute before repeating the procedure. Some sources say 30 seconds.
For a visual guide on asthma inhaler use, please consult FamilyDoctor.org, Dr. Greene, and Asthma.ca.
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This entry was posted on Friday, May 19th, 2006 at 2:53 am and is filed under Asthma Inhalers. You can subscribe via RSS 2.0 feed to this post's comments. You can comment below, or link to this permanent URL from your own site.
May 19th, 2006 at 3:56 am
[...] Asthma Inhalers Central « Famous Asthmatics How to Use a Metered-Dose Asthma Inhaler » [...]
June 8th, 2006 at 2:47 am
[...] However, you can still rely on general instructions for using a DPI, and a good run-down can be found at Health A to Z. Another good source is the CCHS site. Basically, the main difference in using dry powder and metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) lies in how you inhale — DPIs require you to breathe quickly, whereas MDIs require slow inhalation. [...]
November 7th, 2006 at 10:00 pm
[...] So, inhaler usage, not type, is king. If you need help in using your inhalers, do read the previous articles here at AIC (how to use metered-dose inhalers, how to use dry powder inhalers). Read the entire article here. [...]
February 4th, 2007 at 8:40 am
Uh, oh. What Dr. Dolovich said is that all “aerosol” devices are the same. That doesn’t mean MDIs and DPIs are equal because dry powder inhalers are powder from a solid and metered dose inhalers are aerosols (sprays)just like nebulizers. So don’t think that a DPI is the same as an MDI aerosol and holding chamber. It’s not.
February 4th, 2007 at 4:38 pm
Hi Dotsy,
Thanks for the response. Yes, I do know that; if you would kindly take a second read, I didn’t write that MDIs and DPIs are equal. In my previous posts (such as this one) I wrote a bit about the differences of DPIs from MDIs.
I once tried using a DPI but found it more uncomfortable to use than an MDI, hence up to now I’m using the latter. However, I do have friends who prefer DPIs over MDIs. I do believe that with proper usage and training, I would be also comfortable with using a DPI.
Thanks for the reminder, though
Best wishes.