Acute Asthma Inhaler

One of the most important elements in managing and living with asthma is learning to use acute asthma inhalers correctly. An asthma inhaler is a device that is used to deliver medication directly into the airways. There are two different types of inhalers: Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs), which deliver measured doses of medication through an aerosol cannister; and Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs). Correct asthma inhaler use depends on the type of inhaler. Many doctors prescribe the aerosol bronchodilator medication Proventil HFA (which contains the active ingredient albuterol) as the fastest-acting and most effective MDI asthma treatment. Proventil HFA differs from the original Proventil asthma medication only in the type of propellant used to deliver the medication mist to the airways. Asthma inhalers originally used CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons); because CFCs are damaging to the environment, they have been banned in the United States and other countries. HFAs (hydrofluoroalkanes) are used as an earth-friendly alternative. In order to treat your acute asthma symptoms effectively, it is important that you understand how to use asthma inhaler properly.

The following steps are a useful guide to the proper method of administering a Proventil HFA dose:

(1) Place the canister into the asthma inhaler holder and make sure that it is firmly seated. (2) Shake the inhaler well before each use.
(3) Remove the cap, making sure that the mouthpiece is clear. Clean away any lint or dust that may have accumulated before you administer the medication.
(4) Spray the mist into the air three or four times to test; if it has been longer than two weeks since the last use, re-prime the inhaler by spraying until the canister delivers several full sprays.
(5) Exhale as completely as possible.
(6) Holding the inhaler upright, place the mouthpiece into your mouth and close your lips to form a seal.
(7) Press down slowly on the canister while breathing in as deeply as possible – make sure that you depress the canister all the way.
(8) Hold your breath as long as you can, for up to ten seconds.
(9) If more than one puff is prescribed, wait one minute, then repeat steps 5 through 8 as directed by your doctor. Be sure to clean your inhaler regularly in order to keep it in proper working condition. Keep track of the number of sprays you use – each canister typically holds 200 sprays – and refill your prescription before you run out. It goes without saying that you should keep your inhaler with you at all times. By learning to use your acute asthma inhalers properly and keeping them well-maintained, you will have the medication you need to treat your worst asthma symptoms available to you at all times; use only as directed by your doctor.

News about inhalers: ACAAI: Patients with HFA Inhalers Breathing Easier (CME/CE)