Metered Dose Inhaler Instructions

Some conditions that restrict breathing, such as asthma, require you to use an inhaler to manage your condition. Many of these inhalers are metered dose inhalers, or MDIs, which means that the device controls the amount of medication you receive. Each puff from these inhalers contains the exact dose of medication. Your doctor will determine how many puffs you need to give you the appropriate dose. These inhalers prevent you from overdosing on the medication.

Instructions

With a Spacer

• 1

  Shake the MDI to blend the medicine, then remove the cap.

• 2

  Place the MDI into the open end of the spacer.

• 3

  Breathe out as much air as you can.

• 4

  Insert the mouthpiece between your teeth and form a tight seal with your lips around the spacer.

• 5

  Press the medication canister down. After one or two seconds, inhale slowly for a few seconds.

• 6

  Hold your breath for 10 seconds to allow the medication to fully infuse in your lungs.

• 7

  Wait one minute between each puff if your doctor has ordered more than one puff per dose.

• 8

  Remove the spacer and replace the cover on the MDI after use.

Without a Spacer

• 9

  Shake the MDI to blend the medicine, then remove the cap.

• 10

  Breathe out as much air as you can.

• 11

  Insert the mouthpiece between your teeth and form a tight seal around it with your lips.

• 12

  Press down the medication canister as you breathe in slowly for 5 to 7 seconds.

• 13

  Repeat as instructed by your doctor after waiting 1 minute.

• 14

  Replace the MDI cap when you are finished.