Using a Metered-Dose Inhaler Without a Spacer: Care Instructions

A metered-dose inhaler lets you breathe medicine into your lungs. "Metered-dose" means that the inhaler gives a measured amount of medicine each time you use it. This type of inhaler delivers medicine in the form of a liquid mist.

If you think you aren't getting all your medicine, talk to your doctor about adding a spacer to your inhaler. Using a spacer may make it easier for you to get medicine in your lungs.

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  Read the instructions that come with the inhaler.

  Inhalers come in different shapes, sizes, and doses. Each kind is used differently.

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  Understand how to use the inhaler.

  Ask the nurse, doctor, pharmacist, or respiratory therapist to make sure you use it the right way.

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  Make sure you use the right inhaler at the right time.

  Label each inhaler if you have more than one.

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  Get inhaler refills before you run out.

  Use the dose counter to see how many doses are left.

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  Follow the instructions for cleaning each inhaler.

  They will help you do it the right way.

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  Check the instructions to see if you need to prime the inhaler (get it ready) before use.

  If it needs priming, follow the instructions for how to do so.

Follow these steps for using a metered-dose inhaler without a spacer.

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  1. Shake the inhaler for 5 seconds. Remove the cap.

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  2. Hold the inhaler upright with the mouthpiece at the bottom.

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  3. Stand or sit up straight. Breathe out slowly and completely.

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  4. Put the inhaler's mouthpiece in your mouth, and close your lips tightly around it. Keep your tongue away from the opening.

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  5. Take one slow, deep breath while pressing the canister 1 time to release a puff of medicine. Hold your breath for 5 to 10 seconds.

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  6. If you need another puff of medicine, wait 1 minute between puffs.

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  7. Replace the cap on the inhaler.

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  8. Rinse your mouth with water if the inhaler has corticosteroids. Do not swallow the water.