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How to use your METERED DOSE INHALER Open-mouth technique 1. Shake inhaler very hard several times and then remove cap from mouthpiece. 2. Hold inhaler upright 2 finger spaces from your mouth, with your mouth open wide. 3. Breathe out slowly and completely and then begin to take a SLOW, DEEP breath while keeping your mouth open wide. 4. After you have started to breathe in, press down on the inhaler, releasing the medication. Continue to take a deep breath to fill up your lungs as much as possible. 5. When you have taken a full breath, hold your breath for 10 seconds and then relax. 6. If you are taking albuterol, wait one full minute before you take your next puff using the same steps as above. If you are taking corticosteroid inhaler, rinse your mouth after the second puff. Closed-mouth Technique 1. Shake inhaler very hard several times and then remove cap from mouthpiece. 2. Breathe out slowly and completely and then place mouth piece of the inhaler in your mouth and close your lips around it. Make sure your inhaler is in upright position and mouth piece is pointing towards the back of your throat. 3. Begin to take a SLOW, DEEP breath through your mouth, press down firmly and fully on the top of the inhaler to release the medicine. 4. Continue to breathe in and hold your breath for about 10seconds and then relax. 5. Repeat steps #1-4 for the second puff. Remember take only one puff at a time! Cleaning of MDI 1. Once a day clean the mouth piece and cap by rinsing them under running water. Let it dry completely before you use it again. Have another inhaler to use while it is drying. 2. Twice a week wash the mouthpiece with mild dishwashing soap and warm water. Rinse it well and dry completely before putting it back. Checking How Much Medicine Is Left in the Canister: Keep track of how many times you use it each day. This way, you can estimate when your inhaler is likely run out. It may be difficult for you to keep track of how much you use your inhaler if you use it every once in a while as a rescue medication. Make sure you have refill of your medicine on your prescription. Also you may want to ask your doctor about getting two inhalers at a time. When one runs out, get a refill so you always have an inhaler with you. Pediatric Allergy and Tel: (312) 996-6714 Fax: (312) 413-8694 |
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