Using Metered dose Inhaler- Instructions and Videos

It is important that you use your inhaler properly. Your doctor or asthma nurse should explain how to use your inhaler so that every dose you take gives you the most benefit. It's very common to experience problems using inhalers.

Instructions and videos of MDIA metered-dose inhaler is a device that helps deliver a specific amount of medication to your lungs. It is commonly used to treat asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory problems.

Each inhaler consists of a pressurized canister of medication and a mouthpiece. Pressing down the inhaler releases a mist of medicine that you breathe into your lungs. So that your airways receive the right amount of medicine, it is important to use your inhaler correctly.

It's important to keep track of how much medicine you've used so you can plan ahead and replace your inhaler before you run out of medicine. One way to do this is to write a refill date on the canister itself.

Metered dose inhalers are HFA inhalers, they need to be cleaned and primed to prevent medication build up and blockage. Each manufacturer will provide instructions about how to use their inhaler. These instructions should be reviewed carefully.

HFA inhalers may be more expensive than the older inhaler. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have difficulty paying for your medications because assistance programs may be available.

Getting the most out of your inhaler — several common mistakes can prevent inhaled medications from getting to the lungs. The following tips can help to get the most out of a metered dose inhaler

• Remember to take the cap off the mouthpiece
• Be sure there is medication in the canister (see 'Determine when an inhaler is empty' below)
• Inhale through the mouth when breathing in the medication, not the nose
• Take a slow, deep breath at the same time you press down on the medication canister

In the past, you may have been told to drop the canister into a bowl of water and see how it floats. However, this method is not reliable and it is no longer recommended. Spraying the inhaler is also not recommended because even an empty inhaler will continue to spray.