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Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) are devices that deliver medication directly into your lungs, including relief medications such as albuterol or Proventil, and maintenance medications such as Flovent or QVAR. Used correctly, an MDI inhaler helps control symptoms so you can breathe easier.
Using an MDI correctly is an important part of any treatment plan. Incorrect usage can lead to receiving less medication or no medication at all, which negatively impacts your symptoms.
If you’re not sure that you’re using your MDI correctly, or you need a refresher, be sure to read: How to Correctly Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler With and Without a Spacer.
Your MDI consists of a canister that holds the medication and a plastic mouthpiece that houses the canister. Before using it, or if it hasn’t been used in two weeks or more, it needs to be prepared, or primed.
Although each inhaler comes with a specific set of instructions provided by the manufacturer, the following are general instructions for priming:
To get the most out of your MDI, it should be cleaned at least once per week to prevent medication buildup that may block the medication from being delivered properly. To clean your inhaler:
A spacer is a plastic, tube-like chamber that temporarily holds the medication released from the canister, allowing you to inhale slowly and deeply, one or two times. Spacers are used for several reasons: to decrease the amount of medication deposited on the tongue or back of the throat, to allow more medication to reach the lungs, to allow for better timing of your inhalation with the spray of the medication.
To ensure you’re getting the right dose, proper technique and regular cleaning is necessary. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instruction before using your spacer.
Below are general guidelines for cleaning:
If you have difficulty using your inhaler, with or without a spacer, ask your doctor to review the steps with you at your next appointment. Be sure to perform a return demonstration before leaving the office to ensure you’ve understood the instructions.
Source:
Bailey, William, MD., Gerald, Lynn B., PhD, MSPH. “Patient information: Asthma inhaler techniques in adults (Beyond the Basics.)” Wolters Kluwer Health. Up to Date. Updated November 5, 2013.
by Deborah Leader RN, BSN, PHN
At the beginning, I thghout that the Andrea air Purifier by Mathieu Lehanneur's was a concept without concrete future, and finally it's industrialized. Now I HOPE that we will never have to produce that (even if it looks fun and zen)
Just got over the flu, can i use dish soap to soak and clean mouthpiece unit.
Hi MIke, I hope you are feeling better. Mild soap and water can be used to clean.