Using an Inhaler with a Spacer

Breathe in

Breathe out

Steps for Using an Inhaler with a Spacer

Step 1:

• Remove the caps from the inhaler and spacer.

• Shake the inhaler well and attach the spacer. If the inhaler is being used for the first time or has not been used for a while, prime it as directed by its maker.

Step 2:

• Breathe out normally.

• Put the spacer between your teeth and close your lips tightly around it.

• Keep your chin up.

Step 3:

• Spray 1 puff into the spacer by pressing down on the inhaler.

• Then slowly breathe in through your mouth as slowly and deeply as you can. This should take 3–4 seconds. (If you breathe too quickly, you may hear a whistling sound in the spacer.)

Step 4:

• Take the spacer out of your mouth.

• Hold your breath for a count of 10.

• Then pucker your lips and slowly breathe out through your mouth.

If you’re prescribed more than 1 puff of medication at a time, wait at least 30 seconds between puffs. This number may be different for different medications. Shake the inhaler again. Then repeat steps 2 to 4.