How a Metered Dose Inhaler Works for Asthma Sufferers

A metered dose inhaler, or MDI, is a medical device that helps deliver asthma medicine. It consists of a small aerosol cylinder in a plastic holder that must be pressed from the top to release the medicine. The MDI ensures that the right amount or dosage of medicine is dispensed every time. To be effective, the aerosol medicine propelled into the mouth by the MDI must be inhaled into the windpipe and the lungs by the patient. 

The aerosol medicine inside the metered dose inhaler canister is pressurized and released quickly when the button is pressed. This can make the microscopic particles of medication difficult to inhale, especially for new users. To help patients breathe the medicine in properly and get it down into the lungs, another device can help. The spacer chamber traps the medicine particles until the patient is ready to inhale. It can be used by children, the elderly or any patient who needs assistance. A spacer chamber, however, shouldn’t be used with dry powder inhalers (DPIs).

Using Metered Dose Inhalers With Spacer Chambers

Your doctor will demonstrate how to use the devices, typically covering these steps:

1. Shake the medicine canister.
2. Insert the hard plastic MDI into the spacer chamber, attaching it.
3. If a mask is included, place it over the mouth and nose to get an airtight seal.
4. If your canister has just a mouthpiece, place the tip between the lips and teeth and wrap lips tightly to get a seal.
5. Press down quickly but firmly on the MDI and canister. A puff of medicine will go into the spacer chamber.
6. Hold the mask in position and take six breaths. When using the mouthpiece only, hold your breath for about 10 seconds after inhaling medication and then slowly breathe out.
7. Repeat steps three through six for each puff of the dosage prescribed, waiting a minute between puffs.
8. When finished, remove the MDI from the spacer chamber.
9. If the medication contains steroids, rinse your mouth with water and wipe your face with soap and water to remove excess medication.

When you need asthma supplies, contact Mar-J Medical Supply for convenient home delivery.

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