When you hear Inhaler Technique, the set of steps needed to get medication from an inhaler into the lungs efficiently. Also known as proper inhaler use, it determines whether you actually feel the relief you expect.
Most people start with a Metered‑Dose Inhaler (MDI), a small press‑urized can that releases a measured spray of medication. The MDI requires you to coordinate a quick, deep breath with the device’s click – a classic coordination challenge. If you miss the timing, the drug lands in your mouth instead of your lungs, and you waste a dose.
If you own a Dry Powder Inhaler (DPI), a breath‑activated inhaler that delivers medication as a fine powder, the game changes. DPI users must inhale fast and forcefully enough to lift the powder into the airway. Too slow and the medication clumps; too fast and you may feel a cough.
Many clinicians add a Spacer Device, a tube that attaches to an MDI and holds the spray before you inhale. The spacer enhances drug deposition by giving the particles time to spread, reducing oropharyngeal irritation and improving lung absorption. Studies show patients using a spacer see fewer flare‑ups.
Pulling these pieces together, inhaler technique encompasses device handling, breath timing, and post‑dose care. Poor technique leads to reduced clinical outcomes – you might notice more wheezing, need higher doses, or visit the doctor more often. That’s why mastering the steps matters for anyone managing asthma or COPD.
Common slip‑ups include forgetting to shake an MDI, not exhaling fully before inhalation, or holding the breath for too short a time after the dose. A good rule of thumb: exhale, seal your lips around the mouthpiece, actuate (or inhale sharply for DPI), then breathe in slowly and hold for about ten seconds. This simple rhythm improves medication delivery and is easy to practice.
Beyond the act of inhaling, you should check the inhaler’s dose counter regularly, store it at room temperature, and clean the mouthpiece weekly. A clogged nozzle or expired drug can sabotage even the best technique. Keeping a log of doses taken also helps you and your doctor spot patterns and adjust treatment.
If you’re unsure whether you’re doing it right, ask your pharmacist for a quick demonstration or use one of the many free video tutorials online. Some apps even let you record your inhalation and compare it to the ideal waveform. These tools support patients in achieving correct inhaler technique without a clinic visit.
Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into each device, share step‑by‑step guides, and offer troubleshooting tips. Whether you’re a new user or just need a refresher, the collection will help you lock in the right habit and get the most out of your medication.
© 2025. All rights reserved.
