Using an Inhaler: Learn the Correct Technique

Using an inhaler seems simple, but most patients do not use it correctly. When you use your inhaler the wrong way, less medicine can get to your lungs. It is important to use your inhaler as directed by your doctor, if you're not sure how often, or when you should use your inhaler, or how many puffs you should take you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist can also show you how to use your inhaler. A poor technique may also mean your medicine ends up in your mouth or throat where it can cause side effects such as throat irritation

Most pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) involves users co-coordinating correct timing and appropriate inspiratory flow rate (IFR). Some pMDIs (Auto haler, Easi breathe) and all dry powder inhalers (DPIs) do not require timing, but do demand that the inspiration produce a certain IFR or peak inspiratory flow (PIF).

Written instructions alone on how to use an inhaler are insufficient. When patients are first prescribed inhaled medication they must be taught how to use their inhaler, and their technique should be checked at subsequent consultations.

Inhalers require technique to actuate and inhale the medicine properly if not used with a spacer, and are often used improperly. They also require a lot deeper breaths than do nebulizer treatments--which is harder to do when you're having problems breathing. Mostly, though, it depends on what you and your doctor decide works best for you, and what you'll be most compliant with. Nebulizers also offer higher doses of medications.

The key to proper use of these inhalers is drawing the spray or mist released from the mouthpiece of the inhaler deep into the lungs and onto the bronchial tubes. We recommend that you put your lips and teeth tightly around the mouthpiece of the inhaler. Alternatively, it is also proper to hold the mouthpiece a distance of about one inch from your opened mouth.

Source: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov