What this helps you do
A spacer makes a metered-dose inhaler easier to use and helps more medicine reach the lungs instead of the mouth and throat.
Safety: before you start
Check the inhaler is in date and not empty. Use only the inhalers and doses prescribed for you.
What you will need
- Your metered-dose (puffer) inhaler
- A spacer that fits it (with a mask for young children)
Step by step
- Remove the cap and shake the inhaler well.
- Fit the inhaler into the end of the spacer.
- Breathe out gently, away from the spacer.
- Seal your lips around the mouthpiece (or place the mask over nose and mouth).
- Press the inhaler once.
- Breathe in slowly and deeply and hold for up to 10 seconds, or take 5 slow normal breaths through the spacer.
- Wait about 30 to 60 seconds, shake again and repeat if a second puff is prescribed.
Tips and common mistakes
One puff at a time into the spacer. Rinse your mouth after a steroid (preventer) inhaler. Wash the spacer monthly in warm soapy water and let it air dry.
When to stop and get help
Call emergency services if your reliever does not help, you are too breathless to speak, or your lips turn blue.