Seven Steps to Good Inhaler Technique

1. Prepare the inhaler device by r​​​​emoving the cap.  If using a Metered Dose inhaler please shake well too.
2. Prepare OR load the dose as instructed (use a spacer if a Metered Dose Inhaler).
3. Breathe out, fully and gently, but not into the inhaler.
4. Place mouthpiece in your mouth and seal your lips around the mouthpiece.
5. Breathe in. Different inhalers use different techniques. Follow the instructions provided by your clinician, nurse or Pharmacist.
   • Pressurised Metered Inhaler: Slow and Steady
   • Soft Mist Inhaler: Slow and Steady  
   • Dry Powder Inhaler DPI:  Quick and Deep
6. Remove inhaler from the mouth and hold the breath for up to 10 seconds.
7. Wait for a few seconds then repeat as necessary.

George Eliot Hospital is a smoke free environment. For help and advice to stop smoking you can call the national helpline on 0300 123 1044 or visit https://fitterfutures.everyonehealth.co.uk/stop-smoking-service/

Copyright

George Eliot Hospital. (2024). How do I use a Metered Dose inhaler? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7m89Pn-OVLI. Copyright of George Eliot Hospital.

George Eliot Hospital. (2024). How do I use a Dry Powder inhaler? [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HUplpiKykE Copyright of George Eliot Hospital.

Except where otherwise noted, this item is licensed under the CC BY license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

If you are a rights holder and are concerned that you have found material on our patient information resources website, for which you have not given permission, or is not covered by a limitation or exception in national law, please contact us using the Feedback form providing your contact information and full details of the material.