Metered dose inhaler use
| Metered dose inhaler use - part one |
A metered dose inhaler (MDI) delivers a specific amount of medicine in aerosol form. This makes it possible to inhale the medication, instead of taking it in pill form.
MDI's are commonly used to treat asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions.
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part two |
Take off the cap and shake the inhaler hard.
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part three |
Breathe out all the way.
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part four |
Hold the inhaler 1 to 2 inches in front of your mouth (about the width of two fingers).
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part five |
Start breathing in slowly through your mouth, and then press down on the inhaler one time. Breathe in slowly, as deeply as you can.
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part six |
Slowly count to 10 while you hold your breath (if you can). This lets the medicine reach deep into your lungs.
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part seven |
If your doctor prescribed more than one puff of medicine, repeat this procedure, starting with step 2. For inhaled quick-relief medicine (beta-agonists), wait about one minute between puffs. There is no need to wait between puffs for other medicines.
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| Metered dose inhaler use - part eight |
Rinse your mouth afterward to help reduce unwanted side effects.
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Review Date:
7/14/2010
Reviewed By:
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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