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Metered-Dose Inhaler, How to Use with a Spacer: Teen Version

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KEY POINTS

  • A metered-dose inhaler is a hand-held device that sends a mist of medicine directly to your lungs as you take a deep breath.
  • A device called a spacer can be used with the inhaler. It can help if it’s hard to press the inhaler at the same time that you breathe in the medicine.
  • Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you learn how best to use the inhaler and spacer.

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What is a metered-dose inhaler with a spacer?

A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is a hand-held device that releases a mist of medicine. Metered dose inhalers contain a harmless gas that helps the medicine get into your lungs. Inhalers help send the medicine directly to your lungs as you take a deep breath.

A device called a spacer can be used with the inhaler. A spacer is a special bag or plastic tube that is attached to the inhaler. Spacers help when it is hard to press the inhaler at the same time that you breathe in the medicine. The spacer holds medicine in the bag or tube and:

  • Helps you to breathe at your own pace
  • Helps more medicine to reach your lungs
  • Keeps medicine from just going into the air

Spacers can be used with or without a mask. Some spacers are made for just one type of inhaler.

How do I use the inhaler with a spacer?

Before the first use, wash the spacer with warm soapy water. Do not rinse. Allow to air dry.

To attach the inhaler to the spacer:

  1. Remove the caps from the spacer and metered-dose inhaler.
  2. Shake the inhaler well.
  3. If the inhaler has not been used before or if it has been more than two weeks since you last used it, you must then “prime” the inhaler. Do this by spraying 2 or 3 sprays of the medicine into the air. Each time you use the inhaler, the next dose is drawn into a chamber inside the inhaler. If the inhaler has not been used or sits for a long time without being used, some of the medicine leaks out of the holding area. This means you will not get the full dose of medicine the next time it is used. Priming the inhaler makes sure that you get the full dose of the medicine.
  4. Insert the mouthpiece of the inhaler into the rubber-sealed end of the spacer.

To use the inhaler with the spacer:

  1. Stand or sit up straight.
  2. Breathe all the air out of your lungs.
  3. Put the spacer into your mouth between your teeth. Make a tight seal around the mouthpiece with your lips.
  4. Press the inhaler down once to release a spray of medicine. The medicine will be trapped in the spacer.
  5. Just after the mist fills the spacer, breathe in through your mouth slowly for about 5 seconds. One spray is called a puff.
  6. Hold your breath for 10 seconds. This gives the medicine time to reach your lower airways. If you are unable to hold your breath, another method is to breathe in and out slowly for 3 to 5 breaths.
  7. Take the spacer out of your mouth. Breathe out slowly.
  8. If your provider prescribes additional puffs, wait 1 minute and repeat.
  9. If possible, brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with clear water after taking this medicine. You should spit out the rinse water.

How do I clean the inhaler and spacer?

Wash the plastic case for the inhaler once a week with soapy tap water. Rinse well. Let it air dry.

Wash the spacer once a week with soapy tap water. Rinse well. Let it air dry.

Replace the one-way valve or get a new spacer when the valve dries out and starts to curl.

Developed by Change Healthcare.
Pediatric Advisor 2022.1 published by Change Healthcare.
Last modified: 2021-07-27
Last reviewed: 2021-06-15
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information is intended to inform and educate and is not a replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
© 2022 Change Healthcare LLC and/or one of its subsidiaries
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