Use of Inhalers for Asthma

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The package insert which comes with most inhalers shows a "closed-mouth technique" for using the device, in which the mouthpiece of the inhaler is held inside the lips. More recent studies have shown that inhalers are far more effective if used with an "open-mouth technique," in which the mouthpiece is held a few inches away from the lips. Keeping the mouth open allows more of the medicine to be inhaled into the lungs where it is needed. With the "closed-mouth technique," too much of the medicine simply settles on the tongue or throat without reaching the lungs.

5. SLOWLY AND STEADILY inhale until you have filled your lungs completely. Try not to inhale quickly. You may see fine white particles which are not being pulled into your mouth; this is normal, because the medicine you are trying to inhale into the lungs is in even smaller, invisible particles.

6. Hold your breath for a count of 10 (10 seconds) before breathing out; this allows time for the medicine to be absorbed.

If you have been asked to use two puffs of medicine at a time (for instance, your prescription says "two puffs every 4 hours"), wait at least 45 seconds between puffs to allow the inhaler device to "recharge."

Alternatively, your doctor may advise using an attachment called a "spacer" with your inhaler (such as InspirEase or Aerochamber); ask your doctor for instructions regarding use of these devices.

2. Insert the mouthpiece of the inhaler into the round rubber ring at the wide end of the Aerochamber

3. Hold onto both the Aerochamber and the inhaler, and shake them up and down together 3-4 times

5. Place the mouthpiece of the Aerochamber in your mouth and close your lips around the mouthpiece

7. Breathe in SLOWLY until your lungs are completely full and you cannot breathe in any more. If you hear a whistling sound from the Aerochamber, it means you are breathing in too fast.

8. HOLD YOUR BREATH for 10 seconds before breathing out again; this allows time for the medicine to be absorbed into your lungs

If you need to use a second puff of medicine, wait 45 seconds before repeating steps 3-8, to allow time for the inhaler to "recharge"

If you are just starting to use an Aerochamber, please bring your inhaler(s) and the Aerochamber to your next appointment so that your doctor can review your medicines with you.

1. Connect the mouthpiece of the Inspirease to the reservoir bag, as shown in package insert

3. Shake your inhaler 3-4 times and then insert it into the opening at the top of the mouthpiece

5. Place mouthpiece of the Inspirease in your mouth and close your lips around it

7. Breathe in SLOWLY and completely. If you hear a whistling sound from the Inspirease device, it means you are breathing too fast

8. Breathe in the entire contents of the bag and HOLD YOUR BREATH for a count of five.

9. Keep your lips sealed around the mouthpiece and breathe out so that the bag inflates again

10. Breathe in slowly a second time, hold your breath again for a count of five, and then breathe out a second time

If you need to use a second puff of medicine, wait 45 seconds before repeating steps 3-10, to allow time for the inhaler to "recharge."

If you are just starting to use an Inspirease, please bring your inhaler(s) and the Inspirease to your next appointment so that your doctor can review your medicines with you.