Metered dose inhaler use
| Metered dose inhaler use - part one |
A metered dose inhaler (MDI) delivers a specific amount of medicine in aerosol form. This makes it possible to inhale the medication, directly into the lungs.
MDI's are commonly used to treat asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions.
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part two |
Warm the canister to body temperature, remove the cap, and shake the inhaler hard.
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part three |
Breathe out all the way.
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part four |
Hold the inhaler 1 to 2 inches in front of your mouth (about the width of 2 fingers).
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part five |
Start breathing in slowly through your mouth, and then press down on the inhaler one time. Breathe in slowly, as deeply as you can.
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part six |
Slowly count to 10 while you hold your breath (if you can). This lets the medicine reach deep into your lungs.
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part seven |
If your doctor prescribed more than one puff of medicine, repeat this procedure, starting with step 2. Wait at least 15 seconds between puffs.
|
| Metered dose inhaler use - part eight |
Rinse your mouth afterward to help reduce unwanted side effects.
|
|
Review Date:
8/18/2010
Reviewed By:
Harvey Simon, MD, Editor-in-Chief, Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Physician, Massachusetts General Hospital. |
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.