How to take inhaler with spacer
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How to Take an Inhaler with a Spacer
Using an inhaler with a spacer can significantly improve the delivery of medication to the lungs, especially for individuals with asthma. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to use an inhaler with a spacer, based on recent research findings.
Importance of Using a Spacer with an Inhaler
Spacers, also known as holding chambers, are devices that attach to the mouthpiece of a pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI). They help reduce the need for hand-breath coordination and improve the deposition of medication in the lower airways . Spacers are particularly beneficial for children and the elderly, who may struggle with the coordination required to use an inhaler correctly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using an Inhaler with a Spacer
1. Assemble the Spacer and Inhaler
- Attach the Spacer: Connect the spacer to the mouthpiece of the inhaler. Ensure it is securely attached to prevent any medication from escaping.
- Shake the Inhaler: Shake the inhaler well to mix the medication properly.
2. Prepare for Inhalation
- Exhale Fully: Breathe out completely to empty your lungs. This helps ensure that the medication can be inhaled deeply into the lungs.
- Seal Your Lips: Place the mouthpiece of the spacer in your mouth and seal your lips tightly around it. If using a facemask, ensure it fits snugly over your nose and mouth.
3. Administer the Medication
- Press the Inhaler: Press down on the inhaler to release a dose of medication into the spacer.
- Inhale Slowly: Breathe in slowly and deeply through your mouth. If you hear a whistling sound, you are inhaling too quickly.
- Hold Your Breath: After inhaling, hold your breath for about 10 seconds to allow the medication to settle in your lungs.
4. Repeat if Necessary
- Wait and Repeat: If a second dose is required, wait about 30 seconds to a minute before repeating the process. Shake the inhaler again before the next dose.
Tips for Effective Use
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the spacer regularly to prevent medication buildup and ensure optimal performance. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning.
- Check for Static: Some spacers can accumulate static charge, which can affect medication delivery. Using an antistatic spacer can help mitigate this issue .
- Training and Practice: Proper training on the use of spacers can significantly improve asthma control. Patients should be educated on the correct technique and practice regularly .
Conclusion
Using a spacer with an inhaler can enhance the effectiveness of asthma medication by improving drug delivery to the lungs and reducing coordination difficulties. By following the steps outlined above and incorporating regular cleaning and proper technique, patients can achieve better asthma control and improve their overall respiratory health.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Home-made spacer as an auxiliary device in administration of beclomethasone via pressurized metered dose inhaler for asthma control. A randomized controlled pragmatic trial.
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The Spacehaler for delivery of salbutamol: a comparison with the standard metered-dose inhaler plus Volumatic spacer device.
1997·21citations·K. Gunawardena et al.·Respiratory medicine
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2002·32citations·H. Zar et al.·Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
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Systemic Exposures of Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Following Inhalation via Metered Dose Inhaler with the Mini Spacer Compared with the Aerochamber Plus Spacer.
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Metered-dose inhaler add-on devices: an in vitro evaluation of the BronchoAir inhaler and several spacer devices.
1998·19citations·H. Steckel et al.·Journal of aerosol medicine : the official journal of the International Society for Aerosols in Medicine
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Choosing the metered-dose inhaler spacer or holding chamber that matches the patient's need: evidence that the specific drug being delivered is an important consideration.
1995·78citations·Richard C. Ahrens et al.·The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology
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2004·107citations·S. Newman·Clinical Pharmacokinetics
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