How to use an inhaler Vector

How to Properly Use an Inhaler: Step by Step (2025)

by | Updated: Feb 4, 2025

Using an inhaler correctly is vital for managing respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An inhaler helps deliver medication directly into the lungs, providing rapid relief from symptoms and improving breathing. However, improper use can lead to reduced effectiveness and ongoing respiratory issues.

This guide will walk you through the steps for using an inhaler properly, ensuring that you get the most out of your medication and maintain better respiratory health.

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Types of Inhalers

Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI) vs. Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI) Illustration

When it comes to managing respiratory conditions, choosing the right type of inhaler is crucial for effective treatment. Here are the two most common types:

1. Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI)

A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is the most common type of inhaler, designed to deliver a specific amount of aerosolized medication with each puff. MDIs typically consist of a pressurized canister that releases the medication when activated, along with a mouthpiece for direct delivery to the lungs.

Users must coordinate pressing the canister and inhaling slowly to ensure effective delivery. MDIs can also be used with a spacer, a device that helps improve medication intake by holding the aerosolized dose until the user breathes it in.

2. Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI)

A dry powder inhaler (DPI) delivers medication in the form of a dry powder activated by the user’s breath. Unlike MDIs, DPIs do not require hand-breath coordination; instead, the patient inhales quickly and deeply to draw the medication into the lungs.

DPIs are typically easier to use for those who struggle with timing the activation and inhalation but require a strong, forceful breath to effectively administer the dose. They are often preferred for maintenance medications and long-term management of respiratory conditions.

Note: MDIs and DPIs both deliver medication directly to the lungs but require different techniques to operate effectively. Understanding how each type works and their specific benefits can help patients make informed decisions and use their medication more effectively.

How to Use a Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI)

A metered-dose inhaler (MDI) is a device designed to deliver a precise dose of medication directly to your lungs. Correct usage is essential to ensure the medication works as intended and provides maximum relief.

Follow this step-by-step guide to use an MDI effectively:

  1. Read the Instructions: Before using your inhaler, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions included with the device. This ensures you understand any specific requirements or guidelines for your particular inhaler, including proper usage, cleaning, and maintenance.
  2. Prepare for Use: Make sure the inhaler is ready by checking that all parts are intact and clean. Confirm that the medication is not expired and that the dosage counter, if available, shows that there are enough doses remaining.
  3. Remove the Cap: Take off the cap from the mouthpiece of the inhaler. Inspect the mouthpiece to ensure there is no debris or blockage that could affect the delivery of the medication.
  4. Shake the Inhaler: Shake the inhaler well for 5-10 seconds. This helps mix the medication evenly and ensures that the correct dose is delivered when you press the canister.
  5. Prime the Inhaler: If the inhaler is being used for the first time or hasn’t been used in a while, it may need to be primed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for priming, which often involves releasing a test spray away from your face to ensure proper medication flow.
  6. Position Your Body: Stand or sit up straight with your head slightly tilted back to allow for maximum lung expansion. This positioning helps the medication travel efficiently to your lungs.
  7. Exhale Fully: Breathe out fully through your mouth to empty your lungs as much as possible. This step ensures that you are ready to inhale the medication deeply and effectively.
  8. Place the Mouthpiece in Your Mouth: Insert the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around it to create a tight seal. Be careful not to block the mouthpiece with your tongue.
  9. Inhale Slowly: Start to inhale slowly and steadily. This slow inhalation helps to draw the medication into your airways without causing it to hit the back of your throat or get wasted.
  10. Press the Canister: While continuing to inhale, press down on the top of the canister to release one puff of medication. Make sure to keep breathing in slowly to draw the medication deeply into your lungs.
  11. Hold Your Breath: Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or as long as comfortable. This pause allows the medication to settle in your lungs and ensures it is absorbed effectively.
  12. Exhale Gently: Remove the inhaler from your mouth and exhale gently through your mouth or nose. Avoid forceful exhalation to keep the medication in your lungs as long as possible.

Note: Following these detailed steps can help ensure that you use your inhaler correctly, making the treatment more effective.

How to Use a Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI)

A dry powder inhaler (DPI) is a type of inhaler that delivers medication in the form of a fine powder. Proper usage is essential to ensure the medication is delivered effectively to the lungs and provides maximum relief.

Follow this step-by-step guide to use a DPI effectively:

  1. Read the Instructions: Before using your DPI, carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the device. This ensures you understand any specific requirements or guidelines for proper usage, cleaning, and maintenance.
  2. Prepare for Use: Check that the inhaler is ready for use by ensuring all parts are intact and the medication is not expired. Confirm that the dosage counter, if available, shows there are enough doses remaining.
  3. Load the Dose: Depending on the type of DPI you have, you may need to load a dose by twisting the inhaler or pressing a lever. Follow the specific loading instructions provided by the manufacturer.
  4. Position Your Body: Stand or sit up straight with your head slightly tilted back to allow for optimal lung expansion. This helps the medication reach your lungs more effectively.
  5. Exhale Fully: Breathe out completely away from the inhaler to empty your lungs. Be sure not to exhale into the inhaler, as this can blow moisture into the device and affect the medication.
  6. Place the Mouthpiece in Your Mouth: Insert the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips around it to form a tight seal. Ensure your tongue is not blocking the opening of the mouthpiece.
  7. Inhale Quickly and Deeply: Take a quick, deep breath in through your mouth to draw the powder into your lungs. This fast inhalation is necessary to activate the powder and deliver it effectively to your airways.
  8. Hold Your Breath: Hold your breath for about 10 seconds or as long as comfortable. This allows the medication to settle in your lungs for maximum effectiveness.
  9. Exhale Gently: Remove the inhaler from your mouth and exhale gently. Do not blow directly into the inhaler.
  10. Check and Close: If your DPI has a dosage counter, check that the dose was administered. Close the inhaler properly to keep the mouthpiece clean and the medication protected.

Note: Following these steps will help you use your dry powder inhaler correctly and ensure effective treatment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Inhaler

Using an inhaler correctly is essential for managing respiratory conditions effectively. However, many people make common mistakes that reduce the medication’s effectiveness.

Recognizing these mistakes can help you maximize the benefits of your inhaler and better manage your symptoms:

  • Not Shaking the Inhaler: Failing to shake your inhaler before use can prevent the medication from being mixed properly, which results in reduced effectiveness. Always shake the inhaler for a few seconds before each puff.
  • Not Exhaling Before Inhalation: If you don’t fully exhale before using your inhaler, there’s not enough room in your lungs for the medication to reach the deep airways. Always exhale completely before placing the inhaler in your mouth.
  • Incorrect Positioning of the Inhaler: Holding the inhaler incorrectly can cause the medication to not reach your lungs. Ensure that your mouth forms a tight seal around the mouthpiece and that the inhaler is positioned correctly according to the type you use (MDI or DPI).
  • Failing to Time Your Breath: Timing your breath is crucial. If you spray the medication without inhaling at the right moment, much of it may stay in your mouth or throat. Start inhaling slowly as you press the inhaler to release the dose.
  • Breathing Too Fast or Too Slow: Inhaling too quickly can cause the medication to hit the back of your throat and not reach your lungs. On the other hand, inhaling too slowly can result in the medication not being properly absorbed. Aim for a steady, deep breath.
  • Not Holding Your Breath After Inhalation: Holding your breath for about 5-10 seconds after inhaling allows the medication to settle in your lungs. If you exhale too quickly, the medication may not be fully absorbed.
  • Skipping a Rinse After Use: For inhalers containing corticosteroids, not rinsing your mouth afterward can lead to side effects like oral thrush. Always rinse and spit to prevent complications.
  • Using an Empty Inhaler: It’s easy to lose track of how much medication is left. Regularly check the counter on your inhaler or keep track of how many doses you’ve used to avoid running out unexpectedly.
  • Overusing Your Inhaler: Using your inhaler more often than prescribed can lead to side effects and reduced effectiveness over time. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
  • Not Cleaning the Inhaler Regularly: An unclean inhaler can become clogged and deliver less medication. Clean your inhaler as instructed in the manufacturer’s guide to maintain its efficiency.

Note: Using an inhaler properly ensures that you receive the full benefit of the medication and manage your respiratory condition effectively. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your treatment outcomes and maintain better respiratory health.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the correct technique for using an inhaler is crucial for effective symptom control and overall lung health. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can maximize the benefits of your medication and manage your respiratory condition more effectively.

Regular practice and reviewing your technique with a healthcare professional can further enhance your confidence and success with inhaler use, helping you breathe easier and live a more active life.

John Landry, BS, RRT

Written by:

John Landry, BS, RRT

John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.

References

  • Ahmed M, Munir M, Sufyan A, Ayyaz J, Arshad I Sr, Bukhari M, Umar M, Khurram M, Tariq A, Hamza M. Metered Dose Inhaler Technique: A Priority Catch for Physicians. Cureus. 2020.
  • Levy ML, Carroll W, Izquierdo Alonso JL, Keller C, Lavorini F, Lehtimäki L. Understanding Dry Powder Inhalers: Key Technical and Patient Preference Attributes. Adv Ther. 2019.

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