How to Use an MDI Asthma Inhaler
How to Use an MDI Asthma Inhaler
- Take the cap off your inhaler and shake it well.
- Hold the inhaler with your index finger on top of the canister and thumb on the bottom of the plastic mouthpiece.
- Sit up straight or stand up. Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out all the way.
- Open your mouth wide, and place the inhaler about 2 inches in front of your mouth. (Or you can put the MDI in your mouth, between your teeth, tongue flat under the mouthpiece with your lips sealed.)
- Breathe in and out one time.
- Press the metal canister down and breathe as deeply as you can for about 3 to 5 seconds
- Hold your breath for at least 10 seconds to allow the medication to reach your lungs.
- Wait at least a minute, then repeat for each puff your doctor tells you to take.
- Replace the cap on your inhaler when you’re finished. If your inhaler contains a steroid, gargle and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after each use.
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